Scuba diving heads the list of “extreme sports” that British people would most like to try but don’t – not only because they are risk-averse but because they worry about showing themselves up.
That’s the conclusion of a survey of 2,000 adults carried out by cycling sportswear company Endura – though mountain-biking comes halfway down the list of sports at 11.
Scuba ranks ahead of skydiving, surfing, paragliding and horse-riding in the list of sports people feel most inhibited about sampling, which might provide food for thought for diver training agencies eager for new recruits.
The other sports, in surprising descending order of fear factor, were rock climbing, snowboarding, hang-gliding, sailing, windsurfing, whitewater rafting, mountain-biking, martial arts, motocross, cross-country skiing, skateboarding, ice-surfing, ice-climbing, bouldering and, apparently of least concern to people, BASE jumping.
A third of Britons are terrified to dive into unfamiliar sports because they fear making a fool of themselves, concluded Endura, part of Pentland Brands. “They’re eager to try, yet doubt they ever will.”
Too old to start
Thirty-nine per cent of respondents admitted that the risks associated with the extreme sports made them feel anxious, with many feeling they were too old to start.
A similar proportion said they had been more willing to experiment when younger but that social nervousness had made them wary of new experiences.
A total of 31% agreed that experimenting with sports came easiest before the age of 18, and 34% of parents felt that their children were more willing to take risks than they were.
“The reason trying something new can be so daunting is often rooted in social anxieties – worries about not fitting in, lacking the right gear, or feeling too old or inexperienced,” commented senior NHS psychologist Dr Abdi Mohamed.
“These anxieties can create significant barriers, making it difficult for individuals to take that first step towards new experiences. By adopting a positive mindset, the feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt can be significantly reduced.
“Overcoming the fear of the unknown is a critical step in building self-confidence, allowing individuals to embrace new challenges with a sense of belonging. This journey not only fosters personal growth but also opens the door to a more fulfilling and active lifestyle.”
The research was carried out by OnePoll.com.
Also read: THE NEXT GENERATION: Training agencies and children, Scuba Diving Tips for Non Swimmers
If BASE jumping is at the bottom of that list it’s because the majority of people don’t know what it is.
I’m coming up for 70 & still diving. The rush let’s me know I’m still alive..Happy diving peeps..👌😜🐙