Lesser-known sports you should consider getting into

21st September 2020

It’s always a good time to take up a new sport! Getting involved in sport is a great way to keep healthy, make new friends, and give yourself years of enjoyment, and there are lots to choose from.

We always hear about the so-called mainstream sports, though, so what about the ones that get less media attention? If you’re considering a new sport but haven’t quite found it yet, then perhaps one of these can become your new passion.

Table Tennis

If you’ve ever watched table tennis on TV, then you might have seen some of the lightning-fast rallies and dramatic points that are on show. Of course, you can’t just jump in and start playing like a pro, but with some dedication, you can go some way to replicating their incredible reflexes and agility.

The great thing about table tennis is that it’s easy to get into. You can join a club at a local leisure centre, or even get your own table if you want. It’s quickfire, with plenty of action, and although you’re not moving huge distances, it’s sure to help you get a sweat on.

While tennis might get the majority of the media attention, table tennis is also a great game to get into.

Fencing

Continuing on the theme of agility and reflexes, fencing is another brilliant sport to consider getting into.

If you’re someone who loves competing as an individual but still enjoys the camaraderie of sport, then fencing offers the perfect blend. You’ve also got to enjoy strategizing, lots of speed, and plenty of patient learning.

If this sounds like you, then it’s time to grab your sabre and jump right in.

eSports

Staying inside and playing a virtual game might not strike you as a lesser-known sport at first (plus, doesn’t staying inside mean you won’t be socialising?), but this is an outdated view.

eSports have taken over the world and are ideal for those who love to watch mainstream sport such as football and basketball but are unable to take part in the physical game. This sporting discipline has become so popular that world-renowned games, including FIFA, now host World Cups to crown the best players from around the globe.

Taking part in eSports allows you to socialise directly with other players, and you could even take the time to check out Champions League odds while you wait for the game to load.

Water sports

It might be cheating a little to generalise and say water sports, but there are so many great ones that it’s hard to choose. If you live by the coast then obviously you have a slight advantage here, but even if you don’t, you’ll find lots of facilities inland as well.

Lots of people have been to the beach and seen people surfing or kite surfing and thought “oh I’d love to have a go at that,” but most of us never get round to it. Well, now’s your chance, so pick a water sport and give it a go.

You might have to buy some equipment to get you started, but once you’ve got that sorted, all you need is water, and you can practice your new favourite sport until your heart’s content.