If you’ve never engaged in water sports, you’re missing out on some truly fun, thrilling and relaxing experiences. Water sports are a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of aquatic environments, all while enjoying the rush of physical activity. There’s a huge range of water sports to choose from, including relaxing practices such as boating and paddleboarding, and more intense, thrill-seeking exercises such as surfing. These sports give you a chance to engage in physical activity, learn a new skill, and enjoy the benefits of spending time outside in the sun. If you’re looking for a new hobby—or a fun activity to try on holiday—explore all the possibilities offered by water sports!
Swimming
Swimming is one of the most accessible water sports as it can be done in pretty much any body of water and doesn’t require any equipment beyond bathers. This makes it one of the most popular water sports around. Swimming is also genuinely fun, refreshing and incredibly good exercise. Unlike other high-intensity workouts, swimming doesn’t put any strain on your joints. It’s therefore the perfect full-body workout for pregnant people, those recovering from injuries, or those who haven’t worked out in a long time. If you’re not a super experienced swimmer, make sure to be safe and stick to shallow water as you refamiliarise yourself with the basics.
Wakeboarding
Wakeboarding refers to when you’re pulled behind a motorboat by a board. It might sound strange, but this water sport is incredibly fun and very popular amongst those looking to get more thrill out of their beach day. During wakeboarding, your feet are attached to the board, and you ride the water as someone else drives the boat. Wakeboarding works your core, legs and arms, and helps to improve your balance. It’s generally pretty easy to pick up, and with practice you can even learn to do impressive tricks.
Surfing
Unfortunately, a lot of people avoid surfing due to how difficult it can be to master. Learning to surf can be a challenge, for sure, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! Developing a new skill is very rewarding and can really improve the way you feel about yourself. Plus, even just learning the basics of surfing is an intense yet low-impact workout, working on your core, shoulders and lower body. It is also incredibly fun and a great way to shake up your usual beach trips.
Boating
There may be some confusion over what exactly ‘boating’ means, but it essentially refers to any activity in which you travel by boat. It can mean travelling via sailboat, yacht, kayak or fishing boat, or any other vessel. With exercises like kayaking and sailing giving you a low-impact, full-body workout, boating allows you to move your body. Boating is also a great way to keep your brain active, especially as you age. If you need some relaxation and comfort, boating can additionally help you practise mindfulness. This activity takes you away from the shore and thereby helps you forget about your usual, day-to-day stresses. Spending time outside under the sun and amongst the salty sea air is also very beneficial to your emotional wellbeing.
Stand-Up Paddleboarding
Stand-up paddleboarding is another great form of low-impact exercise. This activity involves standing on a longboard and propelling yourself along the water with a long paddle. Paddleboarding engages your core and improves your balance, all while you get to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It is one of the most relaxed water sports out there and an excellent option for when you’re exploring a new area and body of water. This exercise really gives you the chance to enjoy the sun, fresh air and the unique beauty of your surroundings.
Ready to Hit the Water?
Whether you need a new hobby, a new exercise regime or just a new reason to get outside, water sports are a great way to refresh your routine! You can spend years thinking about all the different things you could try and skills you could learn, or you could take the leap today. Dive head-first into water sports this summer—you won’t regret it!
