Finding an Active Hobby

If you need a way to get moving, then trying to find a sports-related hobby may be the best option for you. If you are looking for something active for your hobby, then you have unlimited options from which to choose. You will need only to determine what it is that you want to get out of a hobby so that you will know where to begin. Ask yourself these questions about active hobbies and then begin looking for something that fits.

Do you want something that is a group or individual sport?

If you are looking for an individual activity, walking, and eventually jogging, are good ideas. You can get out to clear your head without having the distraction of other people nearby. There are other sports you can do alone as well, such as some forms of racket sports. Think outside the box and consider taking up something like trampoline-jumping (you have seen those tiny trampolines), aerobics you do in your home, or even jump roping.

Group sports tend to be more popular, and there are some out there for any type of physical shape. If you are not in good shape, you may want to consider bowling. While it will not get you in shape on its own, it will be a way for you to begin to get more physical activity. Also look into joining a team sport through your church or civic organization or through your local gym.

Do you want something that will require your hard work and dedication three nights a week, or only occasionally?

If you want something that is more structured and demanding, then team sports probably is the way to go. If you join the local softball league, then there is the pressure and expectation that you will be there at practice and at games. Many people find that pressure and expectation valuable. Other people are expecting you, so it is much easier to get off the couch and go. For other people, however, the demand to be involved regularly is too much. If you are one of those folks, then think about something such as hiking or camping. They are outdoors. They are active, but you do them whenever you want, as often or as rarely as you would like.

Are you looking for something popular?

Some people want what is in right now. Those are the people who were into Tae-Bo, then spinning, and now hip-hop fitness classes. If you are one of those people, look online. Do some searching for fitness tips. Find out what everyone is doing. Check out a local gym and see what classes are offered often. Football, basketball, and tennis remain popular throughout time, even if the demand for these sports ebbs and flows. Think about these activities if you are looking for something that others will get and understand.

If you want something off the beaten path, do not fear. You will just need to look around more for your sport. You may want to try cricket (if you are in the United States, it is not a popular sport), or something like horseshoes or even croquet. Work on trying out different sports. You will be surprised how many odd hobbies have interest groups in smaller areas. Check out your area, and you may just find that there is something for you. Keep an eye on your local newspaper as some of these groups gather here. Also check out gyms and public bulletin boards, and you may be able to find something advertised that interests you.

Finding an active hobby really is just about finding the right place for you right now. There are so many hobbies that involve physical activity that there is no reason that you cannot find one. You can try dancing by taking a local dance class. Try out kickboxing if you have aggression and energy to spare. Think about a hobby, such as snowboarding, that requires a certain geography or climate. If all else fails, just get outside and be part of nature. Just by walking, you can find hobbies, such as bird-watching or nature trail walking. Never fear. Even if it takes some time, you will be able to find an active hobby that suits your life.

By Julia Mercer