Sports hobbies are a great way to stay active, have fun, and pursue your passions in athletics and recreation. With so many sports to choose from, there’s a hobby out there for everyone.
This comprehensive guide will provide an overview of the most popular sports hobbies and how you can get started with the one that’s right for you.
Types of Sports Hobbies
There are countless sports and athletics to turn into a hobby depending on your interests, budget, and time commitment. Here are some of the most popular categories of sports hobbies:
Individual Sports
These are hobbies you can pursue on your own, at your own pace:
- Running
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Triathlons
- Climbing/bouldering
- Martial arts
- Yoga
- Calisthenics/bodyweight training
Team Sports
These hobbies allow you to join a recreational league or club:
- Basketball
- Baseball/softball
- Soccer
- Football
- Volleyball
- Rugby
- Hockey
- Lacrosse
Racquet Sports
Sports that involve a net, rackets, and a ball:
- Tennis
- Badminton
- Squash
- Racquetball
- Pickleball
- Table tennis
Water Sports
Aquatic hobbies that often require special gear/equipment:
- Surfing
- Wakeboarding
- Waterskiing
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Sailing
- Rowing/Crew
- Kitesurfing
- Windsurfing
- Fly fishing
Winter Sports
Cold weather hobbies usually done outdoors in winter/snowy conditions:
- Skiing (downhill and cross-country)
- Snowboarding
- Snowshoeing
- Ice skating
- Ice hockey
- Curling
- Sledding
Extreme/Adventure Sports
These sports hobbies involve thrill-seeking and high adrenaline:
- Skydiving
- Ziplining
- Paragliding/hang gliding
- White water rafting
- Rock climbing
- Parkour
- Mountain biking
- Motocross
- Skateboarding
See Also: Is Sports a Hobby? Here’s Why
Benefits of Sports Hobbies
Pursuing a hobby in sports and athletics provides many benefits beyond just having fun and keeping fit. Here are some of the top advantages of having a sports hobby:
- Improves physical fitness and health
- Builds athletic skills and abilities
- Provides a creative outlet and challenge
- Fosters camaraderie and friendship through team sports
- Promotes stress relief and mental wellbeing
- Boosts self-esteem and confidence
- Teaches goal setting and determination
- Enhances focus and concentration
- Allows you to spend time outdoors and in nature
- Gives you a community of like-minded enthusiasts
- Opens up opportunities for travel to compete or attend events
- Can lead to rewarding careers in sports professionally
Whether you’re looking to socialize, compete, express yourself creatively, push your boundaries, or just get outside and move, a sports hobby is a great way to reap all of these benefits and more.
How to Choose a Sports Hobby
Selecting a rewarding sports hobby starts with some self-reflection:
| Question | Guidance |
|---|---|
| What types of activities do you enjoy? | Target Sports matching your interests. |
| Do you prefer solo or group activities? | Choose individual or team sports accordingly. |
| What is your current fitness level? | Pick beginner-level sports if you’re new to athletics. |
| How much time can you commit? | Opt for low or high-time commitment sports. |
| What facilities/equipment are accessible to you? | Consider sports you can easily do in your area. |
Prioritize enjoyment over skill level so you stay motivated over the long term. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new sports that ignite your curiosity.
How to Get Started with a Sports Hobby
Once you’ve decided on pursuing a particular sport, here are some tips to begin your new sports hobby:
Learn the Basics
- Read up on techniques, rules, gear, terminology
- Watch YouTube tutorials and videos to see the sport in action
- Take a beginner instructional clinic or camp to learn fundamentals
Get Proper Equipment
- Invest in quality equipment appropriate for your skill level
- Avoid going overboard buying expensive gear as a beginner
- Ask experienced players for gear recommendations
Find Places to Practice
- Search for local parks, trails, or facilities suitable for your sport
- Join clubs or community center leagues to access equipment/facilities
- Look for open hours at public courts, rinks, pools, or fields to practice
Start Slowly and Focus on Form
- Expect a learning curve and don’t rush into intense training
- Work on stance, technique, and footwork before building skills or speed
- Record yourself practicing to identify areas for improvement
Network with Other Enthusiasts
- Attend games, competitions, demos, and expos to immerse yourself
- Follow hashtags and accounts related to your sport online
- Introduce yourself and ask experienced players for tips
Set Goals and Track Progress
- Set small achievable goals at first like completing a run without stopping
- Use apps to log your workouts, pace, personal records
- Celebrate growth and milestones to stay motivated
Taking this strategic step-by-step approach ensures you start on the right foot to successfully turn your chosen activity into a rewarding lifelong sports hobby.
Tips for Sports Hobbies
Here are some key tips for making the most of athletic hobbies:
- Warm-up/cool-down – Take 5-10 minutes to warm up muscles and increase heart rate. Cool down and stretch after play.
- Hydrate – Drink plenty of water before, during, and after sports sessions. Dehydration impairs performance.
- Rest and recover – Take 1-2 rest days between intense play to allow muscles to recover and avoid injury.
- Set a schedule – Block out specific days/times each week dedicated to your sport for consistency.
- Find a community – Join a league, club, or group to meet fellow enthusiasts who share your interests.
- Vary your training – Cross-train with other sports and mix high/low-intensity workouts to prevent overuse injuries.
- Learn proper form – Get coaching on correct biomechanics which are vital for effective, efficient, and safe play.
Adhering to these best practices will help you pursue your athletic hobby consistently while minimizing injury risk.
Sports Hobbies for Beginners
The great thing about sports hobbies is that it’s never too late to get started! Here are some of the top sports for beginners:
- Walking/Jogging – Requires minimal equipment while building cardio fitness
- Cycling – Low-impact and easy to tailor distance/speed to your abilities
- Swimming – Non-weight bearing and works the entire body
- Yoga – Improves flexibility, balance, and relaxation through gentle flows and poses
- Hiking – Explore nature on trails with adjustable difficulty and distance
- Bowling – Social sport with simple rules perfect for casual fun
- Golf – Learn proper swing and build skills gradually at driving range and par-3 courses
- Pickleball – Fast-paced fun racket sport combining aspects of tennis, badminton, and ping pong
- Disc Golf – Throw flying discs into elevated baskets across scenic park courses
- Rock Climbing – Indoor climbing gyms offer beginner-level walls and auto-belay
These sports provide an easily accessible introduction to get you hooked on an active hobby. As your interest and skills progress, you can transition into more advanced versions of these beginner sports.
Sports Hobbies for Kids
Sports are a fabulous way for children to stay active while developing physical literacy, social skills, confidence, and sportsmanship. Classic starter sports include:
Kids Ages 5-7
- T-ball/Baseball
- Soccer
- Gymnastics
- Swimming
Kids Ages 8-12
- Basketball
- Tennis
- Martial Arts
- Bike Riding
Ages 13+
- Volleyball
- Lacrosse
- Track & Field
- Skiing/Snowboarding
The key is finding a sport aligned with your child’s interests and abilities. Building skills gradually through drills and practice will help them develop the confidence to continue playing sports lifelong.
See Also: The Ultimate Guide to Best Hobbies for Men in Their 20s
Sports Hobbies for Adults
Taking up a sport as an adult comes with unique rewards. Here are fulfilling hobby options for adults 30+:
Cardio Sports
- Triathlons, cycling, jogging, swimming, and rowing provide phenomenal cardio workouts.
Low Impact Sports
- Try tennis, golf, yoga, archery, and fitness walking to improve mobility and flexibility.
Lifetime Sports
- Basketball, softball, soccer, volleyball, fencing, and skiing offer year-round fun and social connections.
Adventure Sports
- Take up rock climbing, kayaking, surfing, scuba diving, or backpacking for outdoor challenges.
With the right mindset, equipment, and training you can thrive in almost any sport. Playing provides a great way to meet people and lead an active lifestyle at any age.
Sports Hobbies to Do At Home
Lack of access to facilities and equipment need not stop you from pursuing a sports hobby at home through modification, creativity, and technology:
- Yoga – Flow through poses and sequences in a small space with online classes
- HIIT Workouts – Get your heart pumping with high-intensity interval training routines needing minimal equipment
- Indoor Rock Walls – Install a mountable rock wall and hang board for climbing and grip strength
- Battling Ropes – Wave these heavy ropes for intense full-body interval training
- Virtual Cycling Apps – Mimic real courses and races using stationary or smart trainers
- Mirror Home Gyms – Interactive screens that demonstrate classes for boxing, dance, yoga, strength training guided workouts without taking up room
- Indoor Basketball – Dribble, shoot hoops, and practice drills with mini basketball systems
- Indoor Skydiving – Experience freefall sensation in vertical wind tunnels
- E-Sports – Compete in multiplayer video game competitions requiring rapid reflexes and strategy
With some creativity and dedication, almost any sports hobby can be adapted for the home.
Sports Hobbies to Do Outdoors
If you crave fresh air and nature, outdoor sports hobbies are ideal. Popular options include:
- Open-water swimming and triathlons
- Road cycling, mountain biking and BMX
- Kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding
- Rock climbing and bouldering
- Surfing, wakeboarding and waterskiing
- Horseback riding on trails
- Disc golf, lawn bowling, croquet
- Hunting and fishing
- Motorsports like dirt biking and ATV riding
Experience adrenaline and awe exploring the great outdoors via sport.
Sports Hobbies to Do With Friends
Some sports are more social by nature and are perfect for enjoying quality bonding time with friends:
| Sport | Description |
|---|---|
| Tennis | Friendly singles or doubles matches |
| Volleyball | Play pickup beach or grass games requiring teamwork |
| Golf | Relaxing sport with time to chat while walking the course |
| Bowling | Compete in frames while hanging out enjoying snacks and drinks |
| Racquetball | Fast-paced game in a small space with rallies forcing interaction |
| Laser Tag | Fun lively mock battles in themed arenas |
| Skiing/Snowboarding | Cruise down slopes and warm up in lodges together |
| Rock Climbing | Trust your partner to belay and spot each other scaling routes |
| Hiking | Trek scenic trails together at easy conversational paces |
| Cycling | Ride bikes at a casual speed and enjoy the scenery |
| CrossFit Classes | Group classes build camaraderie pushing each other to up intensity |
| Sports Leagues | Team up with friends in recreational basketball, softball, and hockey leagues |
Doing activities together deepens bonds while creating fun shared memories.
Sports Hobbies to Do With Family
Involving the whole family in sports activities is a great way to bond, stay active together, and form lifelong memories. Here are the top sports for family participation:
| Sport | Description |
|---|---|
| Biking | Ride bikes together through neighborhood or park trails |
| Swimming | Splash around have pool time fun practice strokes |
| Skiing | Learn to ski and snowboard together progressing down the slope as skills advance |
| Kayaking | Paddle in tandem kayaks or groups down rivers and lakes |
| Stand Up Paddleboarding | Cruise together balancing on a board through calm waters |
| Fishing | Enjoy quality time together trying to reel in the big catch |
| Golf | Play the best ball with modified kid tees and equipment |
| 5K Runs | Train for a race you can all accomplish together |
| Pickleball | Fun backyard game for 2-4 players with paddles and whiffle ball |
| Disc Golf | Toss flying discs into targets set up on park courses |
| Bowling | Cheer each other strikes and spares at family league nights |
Developing an active lifestyle together establishes healthy habits for kids while maximizing bonding time.
Sports Hobbies to Make Money
Turn your athletic passion into a side hustle or full-time career with these money-making hobby ideas:
- Coaching recreational/youth sports teams in your area of expertise
- Teaching private or group lessons in your sport
- Officiating youth games as a referee, umpire, or judge
- Entering and winning purses at local races and tournaments
- Joining competitive circuits and leagues with cash prizes
- Creating online courses teaching your sport or workout programs
- Monetizing a sports blog, vlog, or social media account
- Selling custom sports equipment, apparel, or specialty products
Monetize your talents to offset hobby costs and generate income from sports you love.
The Rewards of Sports Hobbies Are Priceless
Sports hobbies provide a wealth of benefits beyond physical activity. They help you meet people, set goals, build skills, promote health, and find meaning and adventure.
With such diverse options, there’s a perfect sports hobby waiting for anyone eager to get off the couch and pursue an active lifestyle aligned with their interests and lifestyle.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview to help you identify your ideal sports hobby and tips to excel. So get out there, be bold try new activities, practice consistently, play safe, and have fun embracing the journey. A whole world of excitement, challenge, and joy on the field
FAQs about List of Sports Hobbies
What sports are good as a hobby?
Any sport can be enjoyed as a hobby. Great options include team sports like basketball, soccer, softball, and volleyball which promote social bonds. Individual sports like running, swimming, cycling, and golf allow you to challenge yourself and work at your own pace. Outdoor sports like hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking provide adventure while martial arts offer personal discipline. Choose sports that align with your interests, fitness level, and schedule.
What are some hobbies other than sports?
Besides athletics, popular hobbies include arts like painting, photography, playing music, crafts, reading, creative writing, puzzles, gardening, cooking, card games, collecting, and hands-on projects like woodworking and mechanics. Find leisure activities that tap into your natural talents, satisfy your curiosity, or teach new skills.
Is football a hobby or sport?
Football is considered both a hobby and a sport. As a hobby, people can play casual touchdown games, join local recreational leagues, coach youth teams, officiate games, and engage as football fans. More serious players compete at the high school, college, and professional level, making football their full-time career and livelihood. At any level, football provides athletic challenges, camaraderie, and life lessons.
What’s the easiest sport to get good at?
Some sports like running, cycling, swimming, and hiking are relatively easy for beginners to practice regularly and see measurable progress. Racket sports like tennis, badminton, and ping pong allow you to build skills like hand-eye coordination in a short time. Less intensive sports like bowling, shuffleboard, and cornhole enable you to socialize while improving through casual play. Starting with an “easy” sport builds confidence to expand your athletic horizons.
Can exercise be a hobby?
Absolutely! Any form of physical activity you do voluntarily in your free time for enjoyment can qualify as an exercise hobby. This could involve joining a recreational sports league, regularly doing home workout programs, taking boutique fitness classes, training for marathons, or pursuing home gyms. If you look forward to the challenge and satisfaction of working out for personal fulfillment, it becomes a rewarding hobby.
How do you write sports as a hobby?
On resumes or applications, briefly describe your favorite sports hobbies using active verbs: play, compete, train for, coach, referee, etc. Quantify your involvement: a member of city league softball for 5 years, run 5K races monthly, co-captain of the high school basketball team. Focus on positive traits sports develop like collaboration, leadership, and perseverance. Playing sports demonstrates desirable qualities as an employee or student.
