Sailing is a great sport and there is no reason anyone could dislike it unless they are incredibly seasick (which is very unusual on a small dinghy).
Most people get the myth into their minds that it requires alot of training and is very expensive. This is not true at all. In fact the opposite is true, usually sailing is very cheap especially at volunteer clubs where you pay a membership fee per quarter or month and get to use the club boats. Sailing does not require a lot of training, in fact by having just 1 hour on the water you can learn all the basics from tacking to gybing and from the 5 essentials to points of sail.
Sailboat racing is the most adrenaline rushing, heart pumping and fiercely competitive sport I know of. In high winds sailing can become close to terrifying, which all adds to the rush you get when you start. Most clubs have a series in which you are ranked by finishing position and the best set of finishing positionings wins a trophy. This trophy is fiercely contested and you really need to work hard on your sailing and appearance to be able to even attempt to win the series.
Sailing is an extremely physical and mental sport. It really works your ab and core muscles, arm muscles, leg muscles and shoulder muscles, because of the constant need to hike out, move around and pulling in the sail sheets (the rope that controls the sail setting). This in a one hour race can be an incredibly good workout compared to the gym membership that you pay for, but never go to. Instead of getting a new Gym membership as your new year's resolution consider starting sailing.
Contrary to common belief, there are sailing centres and clubs practically everywhere in the world, you just need to know where to find them in your area. In London there are at least 6 different sailing clubs, which one can go to to learn or enjoy sailing.
It is also a great way to get your kids or teens out of the house (and their Wii games) and doing something that will improve their fitness (many teenagers are now overweight, because they watch television all day) and their mental concentration (it helps me relax and get me through the week). Many clubs have kids or teens sailing as well.
You can also get sailing lessons free! If you go to a volunteer club, then you can usually get lessons free or included within your membership if you need them. this is great for beginners or improver's, because the centre usually caters for all levels of sailing from absolute newbie to racing expert.
Many clubs will have to check you out first (usually means completing RYA level 2 course or doing a in-house test), so that they know you are trustworthy before letting you take out club boats on the water. This is to make sure you understand the basics of sailing whilst also being safe at all times. Once you are checked out you can cruise, race or even take out a romantic evening with your partner.
Sailing is an ultimate experience with all-in-one factor within it. It has everything you could hope for in a sport and more. it caters for all people, all ages, all races, all sizes and you will always be welcome to do sailing whoever you are and whatever you do. Sailing does not discriminate and is very flexible.
So what is stopping you? Start Sailing today!
PROFOLLICA
