As kids, we’re constantly thrown into new activities—sports, music, hobbies—a forced upon activity that our parents thought would release some of our zoomies. Willingly, we mingle with new groups of people, fall, fumble, and lack embarrassment when we aren’t naturally gifted. As adults, trying something new, especially a sport, can feel daunting. There’s an unspoken expectation that we should already be good at the things we do and that fear of looking like a beginner can hold us back. However, trying new sports as an adult can and should be a gratifying thing.
After moving to Colorado, there are a plethora of new activities that I would love to try (but I am experiencing the fear of failing). I am having moments of self-doubt. Will I keep up? Will I look silly? What if I really can’t do it?
Why It’s Worth It
Trying a new sport as an adult isn’t just about physical fitness—it’s about rewiring how we think and approach challenges. When we push ourselves to try something unfamiliar, we strengthen our resilience, adaptability, and patience.
There’s also an undeniable thrill in feeling yourself improve. The first time you stick a climbing move you couldn’t do last week. Or make it down a tricky mountain bike descent without hesitation, you experience a kind of joy that only comes from progress. Beyond personal growth, sports open doors to new communities. The best friendships are built on shared struggles and small victories on the trail, wall, or field. And, to be honest, I could use some friends that enjoy the thrill and risk-taking that don’t come from mom meet-ups or toddler-led hikes. Trying new sports as an adult does come with some barriers.
The Biggest Barriers (and How to Overcome Them)
Despite the rewards, there are real mental and logistical hurdles when picking up a new sport:
- The Fear of Looking Like a Beginner. No one is paying much attention to you and there are probably more beginners in the group than you think. Focus on the small wins and connect with people that can improve your skills OR connect with another beginner.
- Lack of Time or Resources – you don’t need to buy all the best gear or invest hours of your time to your new hobby. Rent equipment, take a trial class or commit to a clinic before investing more of your time and money into something that you may not continue doing.
- Feeling behind, physically – you have to start somewhere and with continued efforts, strength and endurance will build.
The Best Time to Start is Now
If you’ve been thinking about trying a new sport, this is your sign to go for it. Sign up for that class, borrow that gear, or join that group. You might surprise yourself with what you’re capable of—and in the process, you’ll unlock a new sense of adventure, confidence, and connection. Trying new sports as an adult is a joy worth experiencing.
What’s one sport you’ve always wanted to try?