Moving abroad often brings a wave of new experiences and interests. For sports enthusiasts and for anyone simply curious to try something different, living overseas can also be an opportunity to discover a new sport. Whether it's to better understand local sporting culture, look after both physical and mental health, or meet new people, taking up a new activity while abroad can be a valuable part of the expat experience.
Sports around the world
From Muay Thai in Thailand to lacrosse in the United States and cricket across much of the Commonwealth, sports practices are as diverse as the populations themselves. Living abroad opens the door to new horizons, and sport is no exception. By immersing yourself in local sports, you not only discover new ways of moving your body but also gain insight into an essential part of your host country's identity.
Many countries have their own traditional sports, often deeply rooted in their history, culture, and environment. These disciplines offer a unique window into the soul of a nation. Take the ancient Mayan ball game in Mexico, for example—a collective sport combining strength, agility, and precision. Or sepak takraw in Southeast Asia, a handless version of volleyball where players use only their feet, knees, and head—a striking mix of football, volleyball, and badminton. In Ireland, Gaelic football blends elements of rugby and football, with its own set of rules that can be challenging for newcomers to grasp. And in Brazil, capoeira is impossible to overlook: a dynamic combination of dance, acrobatics, and martial arts, known for its fluid movements and spectacular kicks.
Modern globalization has also helped certain sports spread worldwide, making them easier to access almost anywhere. Yoga, which originated in India and is considered a true way of life by many, is now practiced across the globe. Padel, a more recent sport, has also grown rapidly in popularity over the past few years.
Sporting culture itself varies greatly from one country to another. While running and gym workouts dominate in some cities, others place a strong emphasis on team sports that are deeply woven into local life. Exploring local sports when living abroad offers a chance to discover a lesser-known side of a culture and perhaps to develop a new passion while building meaningful connections.
The benefits and challenges of sport abroad
It bears repeating: sport is good for both physical and mental health. Maintaining an active lifestyle is particularly important during your time abroad, a period that often comes with significant upheaval. Sport can become a valuable outlet for dealing with the stress of adapting to a new culture, adjusting to a different time zone, overcoming language barriers, or coping with homesickness and the loneliness many expats experience in their first weeks in their host country.
Taking part in sports is also an excellent way to meet people. Sharing moments of effort and relaxation helps break down social barriers, making it easier to connect with others. Sports clubs and activities can also be a great way to meet fellow expatriates, especially in places frequented by the international community.
That said, starting a new sport abroad also comes with challenges. Language barriers are often a significant obstacle. When trying a local sport, understanding the rules, communicating with teammates, or following a coach's instructions can be difficult at first. Cultural differences may also take some getting used to. Training schedules, session intensity, and attitudes toward teamwork can vary widely from one country to another. It's important to progress at your own pace and avoid pushing yourself too hard early on. If you're struggling, don't hesitate to ask for advice or slow things down.
Adapting to a new physical environment can also be challenging. Climate, the quality of sports facilities, and the cost of activities all play a role in shaping your experience.
Patience and open-mindedness are therefore essential. With both, it becomes much easier to overcome these challenges and find a sport that genuinely brings you enjoyment while supporting your integration into your new surroundings.
How to find a sport while living abroad
Finding a sports activity as an expat often requires a bit of research and flexibility. One of the first steps is to explore local facilities such as gyms, sports centers, or public parks. Locals, university classmates, colleagues, and fellow expats in your city can point you in the right direction. For students, university clubs and Erasmus groups are particularly valuable resources for discovering new sports.
It's also worth joining online groups dedicated to expats and sports enthusiasts. Social media, apps, and platforms such as Meetup make it easy to find local or international clubs, as well as sporting events you can attend to learn more about a new activity. Some expat associations also organize sports activities or have partnerships with local clubs.
Finally, never underestimate the power of word of mouth. Talking to colleagues, neighbors, or new acquaintances can lead to recommendations or even invitations to try out a sport or attend a trial session.
