Want to know more about the cheapest sports in the world? These are the top ten inexpensive sports you can be fond of.
The least expensive sports for adults have the opposite qualities of the most expensive sports. They require minimal equipment, playing fields are everywhere and the injury risk is relatively low. The injury factor is perhaps the most important.
American families pay an average of $12.5k on medical bills yearly, so they can’t afford to take risks with their health.
Top 10 Cheapest Sports in the World
1. Soccer
Soccer is the most popular sport on Earth.
At the same time, it’s one of the cheapest sports in the world as well.
But here’s another amazing thing about soccer – it’s also one of the cheapest sports in the world.
All you need is a soccer ball, a flat field, and two goals at either end. The sport’s accessibility is one of the reasons why it’s so popular. Anyone can play just about anywhere.
However, if you want to join an organized team, you’ll need these pieces of equipment:
- Shin guards: $15-$40
- Soccer socks: $10-$20
- Soccer cleats: $80-$200
Soccer carries some lower-body injury risks, but it’s still safer than most other sports. You should have no trouble finding a local recreational soccer league that accepts all skill levels.
These qualities also make soccer an ideal first sport for young kids.
2. Basketball
Basketball has even fewer equipment requirements than soccer. To play for an organized team, all you need are a good pair of basketball shoes and some athletic clothing.
Other accessories like arm sleeves and headbands might improve your performance, but they’re unnecessary for casual players.
Indoor and outdoor courts are all over the place, especially if you live in a metropolitan area. It’s traditionally a winter sport, but summer leagues are becoming more popular. Ankle and knee injuries are somewhat frequent, which is why you need to invest in a supportive pair of shoes.
3. Swimming
Swimming isn’t just one of the least expensive sports for adults — it’s also one of the most beneficial. It provides a full-body workout, burns loads of calories, and helps people rehabilitate from injuries.
The injury risk is also almost nonexistent, so it’s safe for older folks, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities.
Even infants and toddlers can pick up swimming.
Aside from lesson fees, the only expense you need to worry about is a gym or pool membership charge. Goggles, paddles, and flotation devices are optional for most people.
4. Cycling
Cycling is another low-stress sport that people of all ages enjoy. It’s also a flexible hobby for people with tight budgets. A $100 bicycle, a $30 helmet, and some bright clothes are all you need.
However, it can get expensive if you want to take it more seriously. Gloves, cycling shoes, visors, reflective devices, and other accessories can cost hundreds of dollars extra.
Cycling is also one of the least expensive sports for adults because it can become a second mode of transportation.
If you don’t need to travel far, riding a bike will save you money on gas and car maintenance while keeping you in shape. It’s one of the few activities that can naturally provide returns on your investment.
5. Volleyball
Believe it or not, volleyball is the second-largest team sport in the United States after basketball. It’s equally popular among both sexes, and co-ed leagues are common, so registering for a local team should be cheap.
Also, volleyball is one of the cheapest sports in the world so you only need athletic shoes and a $20-$30 pair of kneepads to play.
Volleyball is also inexpensive because of the court’s simplicity. They are just 60 by 30 feet, which is nothing compared to other fields of play.
Also, you can get a basic volleyball net for just $100. You can set up your own personal court and start a neighborhood league if you have enough yard space.
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6. Track & Field
Track and field can be one of the least expensive sports for adults if you choose the right events.
Running and jumping require no equipment besides a decent pair of running shoes. These activities will push your athletic abilities to the test without breaking your budget. Many tracks are also open to the public, so you can start today without spending a dime.
Shin splints, foot soreness, and other minor issues might arise, but the risk of a major injury is low.
7. Dodgeball
Dodgeball is emerging as one of the most popular recreational sports, and for good reason. It’s a fun co-ed activity like volleyball, and games can take place anywhere. You should easily be able to find a local dodgeball league that hosts games at a community center or public park.
All you need is a good pair of athletic shoes and a winning attitude.
Although the goal of dodgeball is to hit the opponent with rubber balls, the sport has a low injury risk. You might roll an ankle or run into your own teammate, but that’s as dangerous as it gets.
The least expensive sports for adults are sometimes the most juvenile, and dodgeball is certainly one of them.
8. Bowling
Bowling is one of the go-to sports for older adults. It doesn’t require much athletic prowess, so people can safely bowl into old age without injuring themselves.
Bowling alleys are also known for their cheap playing fees and rental equipment, so it’s a great game for those on tight budgets.
If you don’t want to rent equipment, a new bowling ball costs as little as $40, while a good pair of shoes is $50-$100. It’s hands-down one of the least expensive sports for adults, no matter your athletic abilities.
9. Fishing
And yes – fishing!! It’s one of the cheapest sports in the world!!
Some people consider fishing one of the most expensive sports, but it’s extremely cheap in its basic form.
Here’s everything you need for a fun day of fishing:
- Fishing rod: $30-$50
- Bait: $5-$15
- Extra hooks and fishing line: $15-$20
Yes, you could buy an expensive fishing rod and a big tackle box full of gear, but why overcomplicate it?
Fishing expenses differ between a $30 rod and a $300. Keep things simple, cast out your line, and relax.
There’s no clock, no rules, and no teammates. It’s just you and the surrounding environment.
Fishing is also cheap because of its accessibility.
If you live near a public lake, pond, or stream, you can go whenever you want. You might even be able to make your hobby a reliable food source if you become skilled enough.
10. Natural Bodybuilding
Bodybuilding is one of the most overlooked inexpensive sports for adults but at the same time, it’s one of the cheapest sports in the world.
Everyone knows old-school names like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno, but the sport has fallen out of favor due to its heavy reliance on steroids. Taking drugs is a terrible idea unless you plan on turning professional, which is why many pursue natural bodybuilding instead.
Natural bodybuilding is a great way for adults to stay in shape. Lifting weights is the not-so-secret trick to graceful aging because it keeps your muscles, bones, and joints strong. You might look old on the outside, but you’re decades younger on the inside.
Natural bodybuilding will also incentivize you to clean up your diet. Some people say a bodybuilder’s diet of chicken, rice, vegetables, and other organic foods is too expensive, but they’re wrong.
You can buy everything you need to build muscle at budget-friendly farmers’ markets or get food in bulk at Walmart, Costco, or another big chain store.
Find Your Next Athletic Passion
Adults must stay active as they age, but many people don’t. The adult obesity rate in the U.S. has reached over 40% as more individuals choose to remain sedentary.
Above all, starting a new sport might tighten your budget, but your health should be the top priority.
Find your next athletic passion and try one of these cheapest sports for adults to stay healthy and happy.
James is the Founder & CEO of GurusWay.com. Majoring in Business and other life-changing sectors, James covers helpful content and shares his experience with the targeted audience.