Water Sports – What Are the Most Popular Water-Based Disciplines?
Water sports include a wide range of physical activities that are not only fun but also offer a great way to relax, improve fitness, and boost overall well-being. These are disciplines practiced in, on, or under water, and they enjoy widespread popularity among people of all ages and skill levels. So, what exactly are water sports? Who are they for? And are they really worth trying?
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Water sports - what are they?
As the name suggests, water sports are disciplines performed in water, which require access to suitable bodies of water.
These types of exercises have become increasingly popular thanks to growing infrastructure, easier access to equipment, and the rising popularity of travel.
Water sports are typically practiced during the summer season and can be a refreshing change from regular workouts, offering both recreation and active relaxation.
What types of water sports are there?
Water sports can be enjoyed in various bodies of water. Some are better suited to open water, while others are best practiced in controlled, enclosed settings. Bodies of water can also be divided into natural and artificial ones.
Disciplines done in natural settings are typically practiced from late spring to early fall. In colder months, these activities are often classified as extreme water sports. On the other hand, water sports in artificial, enclosed environments can usually be practiced year-round, regardless of the weather.
Despite some disciplines requiring specific conditions, most water sports fall into three general categories:
- sports on the water’s surface
- sports under water
- sports in the water
Water sports on the surface
These are usually summer activities done in natural, open waters. Among the most popular surface water sports are board-based disciplines like stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), windsurfing, kitesurfing, and surfing. Also highly popular are boat-based activities like rowing, kayaking, and sailing. Motorized water sports, water skiing, and jet skiing also attract a lot of enthusiasts.
There are also less mainstream surface sports gaining attention, especially during the summer:
- skimboarding – gliding across shallow water or waves on a board
- flyboarding – hovering above the water on a jet-powered board
- canoe polo – a mix of water polo and handball, played in short, agile kayaks
- rafting – descending fast-moving rivers on inflatable rafts
- wakeboarding – riding a board while being pulled by a motorboat or cable
- wakeskating – a water-based version of skateboarding
Interestingly, fishing is also considered a sport that takes place on the water’s surface.
Water sports under the surface
These include activities practiced both in natural and artificial bodies of water. Diving is by far the most popular and comes in several forms.
Freediving, where athletes dive without an oxygen tank on a single breath, and snorkeling, where one floats on the surface using a mask and snorkel, are among the most accessible.
Other underwater sports include unique disciplines such as underwater rugby and underwater hockey.
Water sports in the water
The most well-known water-based sport is swimming, which can be performed in various styles such as backstroke, butterfly, breaststroke, and freestyle.
Other in-water activities include:
- synchronized swimming
- water polo
- aqua aerobics
- aqua fitness
- diving (from platforms or springboards)
Who are water sports for?
Water sports can appeal to anyone looking for relaxation or new physical challenges. They are suitable for all ages, fitness levels, and experience. These activities are not only fun but also beneficial for the body.
Choosing the right discipline depends on individual preferences. Adrenaline seekers can try flyboarding or kitesurfing under professional supervision, while seniors might prefer gentler options like swimming or aqua aerobics.
Why try water sports?
Water sports can have a wide range of health benefits. Because water reduces the impact on joints, bones, and muscles, these activities are ideal for people with excess weight or recovering from injuries. The natural buoyancy of water makes sports like swimming great for rehabilitation.
They also help improve cardiovascular endurance, lower blood pressure, and boost circulation.
Water sports can enhance joint mobility, improve balance, increase flexibility, and promote better posture. They strengthen muscles, help shape the body, and support fat loss.
Aside from physical benefits, water sports can positively affect mental health. Studies show that they reduce stress, promote relaxation, and improve mood by increasing endorphin levels. Plus, they’re simply a lot of fun.
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