Have You Ever Tried These Awesome Water Sports?

Tired of beach games and looking to explore other ways to have fun? Read on to find out some of the best water sports that are adventurous and fun for you and the children.

Summer is a perfect time to spend time with your kids and explore what nature has to offer. Nothing says fun and adventure like being in the water. Children naturally love having fun in the water, and it’s an excellent way to help them develop fitness, strength, and coordination.

Let’s look at some of the benefits of water sports and some water sport options to explore during the summer.

Benefits of Water Sports

If you thought water sports are a favorite because of the adrenaline rush you get, you’d be surprised to learn that water sports have other benefits like:

Enhanced Physical Stamina

Most games require muscle coordination and the combination of aerobic/anaerobic exercises. The combination helps to improve stamina, which in turn leads to you pushing more. Young children will enjoy being fit while still having fun.

A way to Learn Teamwork

Allowing your children to interact and play with other kids enables them to learn the benefits of teamwork. Your children can work with people from different cultures and temperament. Moreover, your kids learn how to work as a team, something that helps them develop cooperation and leadership skills.

Improved Mental health

Water sports helps to enhance mental health. Research shows that water can help reduce anxiety, stress, and depression. Also, swimming can help enhance any one’s mood.

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The Best Water Sports to Explore

Below are some of the best water sports to explore this summer.

Swimming

Swimming is a favorite water sport that you and the kids can enjoy in a personal pool or at the beach. You may find swimming more enjoyable and adventurous when you visit the sea. The best part is that you can enjoy the activity no matter the age or budget.

Swimming promotes heart health and increases one’s endurance. It’s also a perfect way to reduce weight and improve lung capacity.

Canoeing

Canoeing is a great way to enjoy the scenery as you take to the water. You can explore different stretches that are safe and have slow-flowing waters for the young ones. However, children need to be over the age of eight and able to swim for at least 50m without any help.

Jet Skiing

You can explore various forms of jet skiing. Some water parks have these skis at an affordable rate, and it’s a perfect way to spend time with your kids on holiday. Also, you can opt to hire them from a resort or a water sports center.

What’s more, you don’t need any special skills or training to enjoy jet skiing. It’s also a fantastic way to be in the water without getting wet.

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Waterskiing

Waterskiis give you that feeling of accomplishment and exhilaration. Moreover, it gives you a full body workout, which is another way to promote fitness for your kids. If you have teenage kids who love having fun in the water and would rather participate in something else instead of swimming, you may need to explore waterskiing.

Wakeboarding

Wakeboarding resembles snowboarding, but the former is easier to the large surface area of the board. The best part about wakeboarding is that you can stay grounded if you’re not prepared to ride up the slope.

Body Surfing

Body surfing is an excellent alternative to regular surfing or bodyboarding. You get to enjoy the relaxing feeling of swimming coupled with the fun of getting to a wave. The fact that you don’t need any extra equipment to explore body surfing makes this activity a perfect way to spend some time in the water.

Surfing

Your children will love learning how to surf if they enjoy playing in the water. Moreover, it’s the best way to get them to win a challenge of staring on the surfboard for long. Most destinations have surfing lessons for children; this means you don’t have to worry about your children doing it wrong.

Skimboarding

Sandskimming or skimboarding comes with a small board, and all you need is to balance under shallow water and wet sand. All you need is a flat beach and a wave to get started. Also, you can opt to skim on waves that are about to crash.

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Kayaking

Kayaking is a fun activity for both adults and teen children. The kayak boat resembles a canoe but comes with a paddle to help you move forward. What’s more, you can explore kayaking in rivers and seas.

Kiteboarding

Kitesurfing is different from windsurfing, as the former allows you to attach your feet to a wakeboard. The kite acts like a parachute, and you have control over how the kite behaves. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy wakeboarding without having a boat.

Paddle Boarding

Paddle boarding involves getting on the paddle board, standing up, and floating on the water. Older children will enjoy this activity due to the waves. However, it’s recommended to ensure there’s supervision by a professional to prevent any incidents.

Windsurfing

Windsurfing is an easy sport that requires steady winds and an ideal location. You need to have precise movement as this helps you maintain balance. It’s an excellent way for the whole family to stay in shape.

You don’t have to worry about getting bored as every day comes with a new challenge. For example, you may have to experience new speeds or deal with new waves. Moreover, you can find windsurfing groups, which make the experience more enjoyable.

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Sailing

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need an expensive, large boat to explore sailing. You can now find places that provide affordable sailboard rentals to get your family out on the waters. Those new to sailing may need to take a lesson, but with time, you’ll be a pro in sailing.

Parasailing

Everyone should try parasailing once in their lifetime; you’ll enjoy the feeling of getting strapped and feeling the parachute catch wind as it lifts you. You can now experience soaring the sky while above the water.

If you love adventure and you’re an adrenaline junkie, parasailing will be a sport you’d want to explore. It’s a safe activity when done by professionals.

Whitewater Rafting

As a family, you can enjoy whitewater rafting if you’re planning to go camping. The sport enhances teamwork and is an excellent way to bond. The thrill that comes with whitewater rafting is something your family will never forget.

Pool Games

Another perfect way to enjoy summer is to have the kids participate in pool games like Marco Polo, Sharks and Minnows, and more. These games are enjoyable and cut through different age groups.

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Safety Tips When Participating in Water Sports

Participating in water sports with your family is an excellent way to bond. However, before you pick up the paddleboards and kayaks, you need to understand some safety tips to ensure you have an enjoyable summer adventure.

Some of the must-know tips include:

Have Basic Swimming Skills

If you plan to bring the children along, make sure that they have the necessary swimming skills. Also, you can have someone with these skills supervise them to prevent any chances of drowning.

Always Follow the Instructions and Rules

Some water sports require guidance from an experienced person. Make sure that you follow the stipulated rules, monitor the wakes, and stay in navigable waters. Get to learn the communication –  especially the hand signs when out on the water. Avoid operating in restricted areas and obey the warning signs.

Wear the Appropriate Gear

Don’t assume that you’re a professional and you can do without protective gear. For example, if a specific sport requires you to have a life jacket, ensure that it’s the right fit and size. Secure it well as it can help you stay afloat in case of any issue when out on the sea.

Remember to carry your sunscreen if you plan to explore these activities during spring and summer. Apply it as often to protect your skin from sunburns. Also, bring along plenty of water.

Moreover, you need to have an idea of how some equipment work. You may come across life preservers, GPS devices, radios, and other items. Safely store the times when out on the water.

Have Someone Supervise the Children

Children are curious and sometimes want to explore the restricted areas. You need to ensure that an adult supervises all kids the entire time they are near water.

Pay Attention to the Weather

Read the weather man’s prediction about the time you plan to be out on the water. Get to know the sea condition and water levels. If you notice that there’s a likelihood of storms or rough water, avoid planning any activities around this time.

Final Thoughts

Kids love playing in the water during the summer. You can find various places that allow you to enjoy water sports with the children. However, ensure that you’ve taken all the safety precautions before planning for any activity. Don’t forget to have fun while exploring some of the above water sports activities.

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