There are many reasons to try adventure sports (you can learn more here about the most compelling ones), but it’s true that some people avoid them due to unfounded fears. In this article, I’ll address those myths.
False Myths About Adventure Sports
1. Adventure sports are dangerous. Not true. While they are risk sports, following strict safety measures eliminates most dangers. With the right equipment and expert guidance—especially for beginners—everything will go smoothly.
2. Only people in top physical shape can do them. False. There are adventure sports for everyone, regardless of age or fitness level: horse trekking, hiking, climbing, canyoning... the options are endless! If you’re keen to try, an instructor will adapt the activity to your abilities.
3. Urine attracts sharks. If you’re a diver, surfer, kitesurfer, windsurfer, paddleboarder, or bodyboarder—relax. Spending long hours in the water won’t summon sharks just because you can’t hold it in.
4. They’re only for men. Wrong. This shouldn’t even need stating, but for anyone still clinging to that idea: think again. More and more women are embracing these sports, both recreationally and professionally. Don’t be mistaken!
5. They’re just passing trends. With roughly 60–70 different sectors, can all of them be fleeting fads? Unlikely. While some gain popularity, others—like surfing or snowshoe trekking—have been around for centuries.
6. These sports aren’t for kids. Absolutely false. In fact, starting young means faster learning—within reason. An 8-year-old shouldn’t try bungee jumping, skydiving, or paintball, but climbing, surfing, skiing, horse riding, or windsurfing? They’ll have a blast.
7. Adventure sports are expensive. Not true. There are activities for every budget. Is a countryside hike costly? Many sports are affordable, and if you take one up as a hobby, you’ll find a thriving second-hand market for quality, budget-friendly gear.
8. You must live in paradise to find places to practise. Nonsense. Even in landlocked places like Cuenca, countless activities exist. If you’re near mountains, sea, rivers, or open skies (and who isn’t?), adventure sports are within reach.
Can you think of any others?
