Best Alternative Sports for Kids To Try in 2024
Australia’s athletes have once again captured the world’s attention during the recent Olympic Games, inspiring the next generation of thrill-seekers. From the skate parks of Paris to the challenging waves of Teahupoʻo, our Olympic stars have shown what it means to be fearless, determined, and passionate.
With young heroes like Arisa Trew, who at just 14 became Australia’s youngest ever Olympic gold medallist in Women’s Park Skateboarding, and Jack Robinson, Australia’s top Olympic surfer, the future of extreme sports is brighter than ever. And let’s not forget Oceania Mackenzie’s stellar performance in the Women’s Boulder & Lead competition has also solidified her place as Australia’s most successful sport climber.
These extraordinary athletes are inspiring the next generation to get involved in extreme sports. If your child dreams of emulating their achievements, now is the perfect time to introduce them to extreme sports that can fuel their passions and set them on their path to greatness!
Here are the top alternative or extreme sports for kids to try, inspired by Australia’s Olympic stars.
-
Skating: Mastering the Art of Air
Skating isn’t just a sport; it’s a way to express creativity and push physical boundaries. Inspired by Arisa Trew’s historic gold medal win, young skaters across Australia are now dreaming of achieving greatness. Skating teaches kids balance, coordination, and the thrill of landing that perfect trick. Whether your child is just starting or looking to advance, skating is an excellent way for them to channel their inner Olympian.
Top places to skate:
- Alley-Oops, Sunshine Coast: Try a general session at Alley-Oops centrally located on the Sunshine Coast. Catering to all riders of all abilities and ages with Half Pipes, Street section, all within the new Station SC precinct where you’ll find an exciting new entertainment precinct. Lessons are available too!
- Monster Skatepark, Sydney: Known as one of the premier skateparks in Australia, Monster Skatepark offers kids an exciting place to practice their skills and learn new tricks from experienced instructors. The park’s variety of ramps and bowls make it perfect for skaters of all levels.
- Rampfest, Melbourne: No matter your level Rampfest have you covered with a range of lessons from first timers (just $24.95 for a 45min session) right through to term programs, sessions, and even holiday programs to help you build skills and have more fun at the skate park.
Estimated Investment:
- Skateboard: $50 – $150
- Entry-level: $50 – $75
- Mid-range: $75 – $150
- Helmet: $20 – $50
- Pads (knee, elbow, wrist): $25 – $50
- Skate shoes: $30 – $60
Total Estimated Cost: $125 – $310
2. Wakeboarding: Riding the Waves of Adventure
For kids who love the water and crave adrenaline, wakeboarding is the perfect sport. It combines elements of surfing, snowboarding, and waterskiing, allowing kids to ride waves and perform tricks while being towed behind a boat. Whether they’re trying their first jump or perfecting a 360 spin, wakeboarding is a thrilling way to spend time on the water.
Best Wakeboarding Spots:
- GC Wake Park, Gold Coast: Located on the beautiful Gold Coast, GC Wake Park offers a safe and fun environment for kids to learn and excel in wakeboarding. With beginner-friendly courses and expert coaching, it’s an ideal spot for young wakeboarders to get started.
- Melbourne Cable Park, Melbourne: Melbourne Cable Park is a world class outdoor adventure centre, located in tranquil parklands just 35 minutes from the CBD in Melbourne’s southeast. They offer 2hr kids clinic for $79 per child which includes coaching and equipment or alternatively a learn to wakeboard 30 minute session is a great place to start!
- Perth Wake Park: The Cable Wakeboard Intro is the most popular way for beginners and first-timers to learn to wakeboard at Perth Wake Park. Instead of starting out on the main lake which can be an intimidating place for total beginners, we have two System 2.0s which are variable speed, straight line cable systems. These are used for our Cable Wakeboard Intro lessons which is the perfect way to learn how to wakeboard at the cable. If it takes off join the Kids Club for 6-16 year olds with a 90min session.
Estimated Investment:
- Wakeboard: $200 – $500
- Entry-level: $200 – $300
- Mid-range: $300 – $500
- Bindings: $100 – $200
- Life vest: $30 – $70
- Helmet: $40 – $70
- Wetsuit (optional depending on location): $50 – $150
Total Estimated Cost: $420 – $990
GC Wake Park Kids Club
3. Snowboarding: Conquer the Slopes
Snowboarding is the ultimate winter sport for kids who love speed and excitement. As they carve their way down the slopes, they’ll experience the rush of gliding over snow and the challenge of mastering new tricks. From jumps to spins, snowboarding offers endless opportunities for kids to push their limits.
Where to Go:
- Urban Xtreme, Brisbane: While Brisbane might not be known for snow, Urban Xtreme brings the snowboarding experience indoors. This urban adventure center offers simulated snowboarding activities that allow kids to practice their skills year-round, no matter the weather.
- Off-Piste, Sydney: Off-Piste Sydney offers a unique indoor experience for beginners to learn and refine their skiing or snowboarding skills in a safe, warm environment. With exclusive simulators and expert guidance, you can master the basics or enhance your technique rapidly, making it perfect for all skill levels.
Estimated Investment:
- Snowboard: $150 – $400
- Entry-level: $150 – $250
- Mid-range: $250 – $400
- Bindings: $100 – $200
- Snowboard boots: $80 – $200
- Helmet: $40 – $80
- Goggles: $20 – $50
- Outerwear (jacket and pants): $100 – $250
UX Indoor Snowboarding
4. Mountain Biking: Taming the Trails
Mountain biking is perfect for kids who love the great outdoors and the thrill of tackling rugged terrain. Riding through forest trails, over rocky paths, and down steep hills, mountain biking helps kids build strength, endurance, and technical skills. It’s a fantastic way for them to connect with nature while satisfying their need for speed.
Where to Go:
- Boomerang Farm Bike Park, Gold Coast: Nestled in the hinterland of the Gold Coast, Boomerang Farm Bike Park offers a range of trails suited for all skill levels. With everything from gentle slopes to challenging downhill runs, it’s a mountain biking paradise for kids ready to take on the trails.
Estimated Investment:
- Mountain Bike: $300 – $1,000
- Entry-level: $300 – $500
- Mid-range: $500 – $1,000
- Helmet: $40 – $80
- Gloves: $20 – $50
- Protective pads (knee and elbow): $40 – $100
- Bike shorts: $30 – $60
Total Estimated Cost: $430 – $1,290
5. Climbing and Abseiling: Reaching New Heights
For kids who aren’t afraid of heights and love to climb, rock climbing and abseiling are the ultimate extreme sports. These activities challenge kids to push their limits, both physically and mentally, as they navigate climbing routes and abseil down sheer rock faces. It’s a great way for them to develop problem-solving skills, build muscle, and gain confidence.
Where to Go:
- Urban Climb, Brisbane: Urban Climb offers a variety of indoor climbing walls that cater to all skill levels. Kids can learn the basics of climbing in a controlled environment before taking on more advanced routes.
- Riverlife, Brisbane: For an outdoor climbing and abseiling experience, Riverlife offers guided adventures that take kids up the iconic Kangaroo Point Cliffs. They’ll enjoy stunning views of Brisbane as they conquer the heights.
- Adventure Hub, Adelaide: Try South Australia’s highest artificial climbing wall, soar the state’s longest and fastest zipline or swing to new heights at this stunning adventure park less than half hour out of the city. From here you can then venture to Morialta Gorge where you can learn to climb the real rock faces and is suitable for beginners an up.
Estimated Investment:
- Climbing shoes: $40 – $100
- Harness: $30 – $70
- Helmet: $30 – $60
- Chalk bag and chalk: $15 – $30
- Belay device and carabiner: $25 – $60
Total Estimated Cost: $140 – $320
6. Surfing: Ride the Waves Like a Pro
Surfing is the quintessential Australian sport and a fantastic way for kids to connect with the ocean. Whether they’re catching their first wave or honing their technique, surfing teaches kids about balance, patience, and respect for the sea. Plus, it’s an incredible way for them to stay active and enjoy the natural beauty of Australia’s coastlines.
Where to Go:
- Let’s Go Surfing, NSW: One of the most popular gifts getting around would have to be bringing your surf dreams to life on Australia’s most famous beach! Bondi!
- Get Wet Surf School, Gold Coast: Located on the famous Gold Coast, Get Wet Surf School is perfect for beginners. Their experienced coaches provide fun, supportive lessons that will have kids standing up and riding waves in no time.
Estimated investment:
- Surfboard: $150 – $400
- Foam board (beginner): $150 – $250
- Fiberglass board (advanced): $250 – $400
- Leash: $20 – $40
- Wax: $5 – $10
- Wetsuit (optional depending on location): $50 – $150
- Rash guard (optional): $15 – $30
Total Estimated Cost: $240 – $630
Surf Session Gold Coast
Getting Your Child Started with Extreme Sports
Ready to introduce your child to the world of extreme sports? Here are a few tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Choose the Right Sport: Consider your child’s interests and abilities when selecting an extreme sport. Start with something that aligns with their current skills and gradually introduce more challenging activities.
- Prioritize Safety: Always use the recommended safety gear for each sport, such as helmets, pads, and harnesses. Enroll your child in lessons or camps led by certified instructors who can teach proper techniques and safety measures.
- Encourage Gradual Progression: Extreme sports require time and practice to master. Encourage your child to start with the basics and gradually take on more advanced challenges as they build confidence and skill.
- Support Their Passion: Be a cheerleader for your child’s new hobby! Attend their lessons, celebrate their progress, and help them stay motivated by setting goals together.
- Book Through SPARK POP: At SPARK POP, we make it easy to find and book extreme sports experiences for kids. Browse our carefully curated selection of activities, and give your child the gift of adventure!
Extreme Sports: The Ultimate Gift of Adventure for Kids
Extreme sports offer kids the chance to express themselves, challenge their limits, and discover new passions. Whether it’s surfing the waves, scaling a rock face, or cruising down a mountain bike trail, these activities are more than just thrilling—they’re empowering.
At SPARK POP, we’re dedicated to helping kids and families explore the world of extreme sports safely and joyfully. Browse our range of experiences and find the perfect adventure that will keep your child active, engaged, and excited.
Ready to Get Started? Visit SPARK POP today and discover the best extreme sports experiences for your thrill-seeking kid!
- Explore Extreme Sports for Kids
- Get 10% Off Your First Booking with Code EXTREMEFUN
