In a world where it’s getting harder and harder to drag ourselves away from our screens, sometimes you need to bring out the big guns to get people active! Between 24/7 access to your work emails and projects and the lure of binge-watching that great new series you just can’t get enough of, there’s always an excuse not to get out there, get some exercise, breathe the fresh air and escape the same old grind.
But once you’ve found an adventure sport that appeals to you, it becomes a whole lot easier, even effortless, to motivate yourself to spend some time focusing on your health, both mental and physical. Here are just a few of the rewards you could be reaping right now:
Effortless fitness:
There is a reason so many people fresh from making their New Year’s Resolutions take out gym contracts each January – we know that getting exercise is important for us physically as well as mentally. We also know that the majority of those new gym members are not going to keep up those workouts for long, simply because they get bored with the same old machines and routines.
Every time you take part in an adventure sport, however, the experience is new and different – especially those that take place outdoors where the scenery is constantly changing. Whether it’s mountain biking, hiking, skiing, kite surfing, rock climbing or even horse riding, there’s something to keep your mind stimulated every step of the way too. And when both your brain and your body are engaged, the activity becomes fun!
And unlike the predictable machines and classes at the gym, you’re not going to be working for the same muscle groups and making the same repetitive motions day in and day out. Different and uneven terrain means each challenge needs a different solution and strategy, and therefore the involvement of different movements and muscles.
Teamwork and self-discipline:
If you’re a sociable kind of person, then you’ll probably enjoy activities that let you participate as a group. There’s the added benefit that having a couple of friends along means you’re less likely to bail on those days when the duvet is being just a touch too tempting!
Working as part of a team in an adventure sport is a great way to hone and sharpen your communication, teamwork and listening skills, and these benefits can quickly spill over into your home, school, or work life. Paintballing is an excellent example, where the success of your mission depends on everyone’s contributions. Plus, there are few things more entertaining than giving your best buds a run for their money on the battlefield! It’s a bonding experience in itself and gives you plenty to chat about over drinks or lunch later.
Stress relief:
Now it might not seem obvious at first, but adventure sports and activities are actually a great way to relieve stress and tension. Most people anticipate that what they perceive as a risky activity is going to cause them more anxiety, not less. But ask anyone who’s worked up the courage to bungee for the first time, and they’ll almost certainly tell you the first thing they wanted to do afterward… was do it again!
This is partly because any activity that gets your heart thumping causes the release of those great friends of ours, endorphins and dopamine. These are the chemicals responsible for the ‘runner’s high’, and which are so good at helping to combat depression. But adventure sports also act as a stress reliever in a much more simple way – they’re an outlet. They’re an outlet for pent-up frustration, aggression, and all the other negative feelings that we try and bottle up in our daily lives.
An exciting activity that requires all of your focus and attention also forces you to step back into the moment and put all your worries about the future aside for a bit. They’re a reminder that you’re alive, and that you have the ability to accomplish what you set your mind to. Speaking of which…
Boost your self-confidence:
Stepping outside of your comfort zone is one of the best ways to keep yourself growing and evolving. Facing your fears, real or imagined, through an adventure sport can give you the confidence and self-esteem to tackle other issues in your life. Because after all, without challenges, you’ll never find out what you’re really capable of. So get brave, get out there, and show the world what you’ve got!