There are many types of extreme sports, including bungee jumping, scuba diving, skateboarding, rock climbing, and more. While each requires a high level of physical fitness and training to participate safely, the amount of education required for these types of careers varies. Here are some tips to make your path easier.
1. Get a Sports Management Degree
Many extreme sports require a large amount of physical activity, but few offer training programs to help you develop the skills needed. Though it may be possible to participate in some extreme sports without formal education, having the training offered by an accredited sports management program can give you a huge leg up. These courses are designed for athletes who want to learn more about the business side of sports performance and competition. You can even get an online sports management degree and compare colleges, explore careers and accelerate your degree. By completing these classes you will gain not only knowledge of how to run events but will have access to networking opportunities that could lead to future employment or even sponsorships.
2. Study Basic Sciences
One important part of many extreme sports is understanding physics and gravity. Without understanding these natural forces it would be difficult, if not impossible, to not only stay safe but to perform well. In addition to learning physics, it is often necessary for those participating in extreme sports to study the natural sciences as a way of understanding how weather conditions can affect a particular sport. Knowing which wind speeds and temperatures are ideal allows you to plan your activities accordingly.
3. Get a Job as an Assistant
One great way to break into any industry is being an intern or going for a position as an assistant or support staff member within that industry. Those who have been able to grab these positions have been able to use them as opportunities for networking and making valuable connections with others in their line of work. By getting your foot in the door, you are on track to being noticed by larger companies or organizations that can help give start your start.
4. Offer Volunteer Services
Many extreme sports require a large amount of time, equipment, and manpower to maintain. By offering your free time as a volunteer, you not only build up valuable experience within the industry, but you are helping to keep these activities safe for others who want to join in on the fun. If you have never volunteered before, consider asking around at local colleges, high schools, or even churches to see if they would allow you to serve with them part-time. And remember… no matter how many odd jobs you do during college, there is always the possibility of someone wanting more done than what they’re willing to pay for, so keep a positive attitude, and you’re bound to get your big break!
5. Network with Others in the Field
Networking is one of the most important skills that someone can have if they want to build their career. The more often you interact with people within your industry, the better chance for them to see your work ethic and how valuable you could be to their organization or team. Fortunately, there are many places where like-minded individuals come together such as on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, which has resulted in some great networking opportunities. If you find yourself on these social networks, make sure that you use them not only to communicate about work but also to engage others in amusing conversations about the things you are interested in.
The most important part of building a career in extreme sports is to be determined, have an open mind, and most importantly — the will to learn. By utilizing some or all of these tips, you can begin to build your reputation within this fast-paced industry that is always looking for skilled individuals who are willing to work hard.