What is the best sport for you, at different stages of your life?
Simple: the one you enjoy. It doesn’t have to be competitive or have a specific goal. According to sports scientist Prof John Brewer, the key factor is enjoyment. It can come from the sport itself, the environment, camaraderie, or friendship. The important thing is to find your niche.
Images from elite sport may suggest that certain abilities disappear overnight or that starting a sport as a child is essential. However, if a sport makes you happy and gets your endorphins flowing, it’s suitable for you at any age. Still, there are certain ages at which specific sports can have a greater impact, socially or physiologically.
Children: anything and everything
A survey conducted by Sport England found that only 47% of children obtain enough exercise. Opportunities and cost are significant barriers. So, what’s the best sport for younger kids? Think of it as play. National Health Service (NHS) guidelines state that children should engage in 60 minutes of physical activity every day. But why not make it more enticing by focusing on fun and play?
“We all need more play in our lives,” says Rick Jenner, the Chief Executive of ParkPlay, which organizes free community play sessions in parks across England. Play is inclusive and can appeal to those who don’t consider themselves sporty. The key is exposing children to as many sports as possible, in a lighthearted way.
Teenagers: team sports
Sport can have significant physical and mental benefits for teenagers. It can also improve academic performance and help them deal with the stresses of adolescence. By this age, many kids have already labeled themselves as “sporty” or “not sporty,” and this can particularly affect teenage girls.
Team sports are a great option as they come with built-in social interactions. Take basketball, for example. Even if it’s not offered at school, it’s highly popular among teens. It promotes endurance, coordination, and balance. It’s also a practical sport that can be played alone, with a friend, or with a group.
20s: cardio tennis
While your 20s may not be the ideal time to dream about becoming a professional tennis player, it’s a great time to enjoy a racket sport. According to tennis coach Emma Wells, tennis has seen a surge in beginners in their 20s and 30s. The social aspect, meeting new people, and being outdoors are some of its appealing qualities.
Cardio tennis, which involves fast-paced drills and games to raise the heart rate, has become increasingly popular among young adults. It offers all the physical benefits of a tennis game without the competitive element. Padel, a cross between tennis and squash, is also growing in popularity.
30s: get online
With the average age of first-time parents in the UK reaching 31, finding time for exercise can be challenging. However, it’s crucial for physical and mental well-being, especially considering the demands of childcare and family life. Online classes and workouts offer convenience and flexibility.
YouTube is a valuable resource for free classes, from yoga to high-intensity interval training (Hiit). There are also specific programs for pre and postpartum workouts. Several apps, like Joe Wicks Body Coach and Nike Training Club, provide personalized workouts and exercise plans. It’s all about finding what works for you.
40s: parkrun
As you enter your 40s, you may notice a decline in your physical abilities. However, running is a sport that many people can start later in life and continue to improve at. Contrary to popular belief, running is not bad for your knees. In fact, it strengthens the joints and can protect against osteoarthritis in the long run.
Socially, parkrun has become a popular event for runners in their 40s and beyond. Parkruns are free, weekly 5k runs that take place in parks across the UK. Participating in parkruns can help maintain fitness and provide a sense of community.
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