Are you looking for a way to enjoy the thrill of sports competition but don’t consider yourself an “athlete”? Not to worry—plenty of the options out there don’t require brawn, speed, or skill.
Let’s look at some of the best sports that don’t require you to be an athlete and are suitable for both competitive and recreational play.
Chess
Chess has been around for centuries and is one of the most popular board games in the world, and there are some convincing reasons why you should play the game. Players move their pieces around a board with eight rows and eight columns, attempting to trap their opponent’s king before they can do the same. Chess requires strategy and forethought, as well as a knowledge of which pieces can move where. That makes it perfect for those who like to think things through rather than relying on athletic prowess. Many personalities like Magnus Carlsen have claimed their name within the chess community, and you could be next.
Table Tennis
Table tennis is another popular sport that relies more on quick thinking than physical strength. You play this sport on a table with two paddles (one per player), and players must bat a small ball back and forth without it going off the table. The game requires agility, speed, hand-eye coordination, and good reflexes—all skills that are not necessarily dependent on being an athlete.
Cornhole
Cornhole is one of the most popular outdoor sports and doesn’t require much running around. Players take turns trying to toss bean bags into a hole in a board that’s about 20 feet away. The game requires focus, accuracy, and technique rather than athleticism. Plus, you can play it anywhere from your backyard to a beach or park. You can even find some essential cornhole accessories to add fun to the game.
Darts
Contrary to popular belief, darts is a sport, and it’s one of the easiest to take up. All it requires is a dartboard and some darts, and you’re ready to go. The game’s goal is to throw darts at a board and get the highest score possible. To play, you just need to be able to stand and aim—you don’t have to be an athlete.
Whether you want to challenge your mind or just have fun with friends without breaking a sweat, there are plenty of great sports for non-athletes! All of these require plenty of brainpower but little athletic ability! So grab your gear (or borrow someone else’s) and get ready for some serious fun!