Kick off 2026 by trying something new—these five sports offer fun, challenge, and a chance to rediscover your love for movement.
The new year is a chance to explore new activities, challenge yourself, and embrace being a beginner all over again. Whether you want to level up a current hobby or try something completely different, these five sports are perfect ways to start 2026 with energy and excitement.
1. AirBadminton
You may know badminton, but AirBadminton takes the game outdoors. Instead of being confined to an indoor court, you can play on grass, sand, or concrete.
Thana Arikrishnan, senior development manager of Badminton Asia and a former Malaysian national player, describes AirBadminton as “a game for everyone.”
Developed by the Badminton World Federation, it’s designed to make the sport accessible to people of all ages, anywhere.
[ALSO READ: Where the wind plays along: AirBadminton makes Philippine debut ]
2. Hyrox
Looking to take your gym sessions to the next level? Try Hyrox.
This intense competition blends running with eight functional workout stations—including rowing, sled pushes, and burpees—pushing athletes to their limits.
[RELATED: Wedding prep goes extreme: Jerald Napoles & Kim Molina tackle HYROX Seoul]
Filipinos are already making waves in the sport: Nico Bolzico and Gabb Rosario made history at the HYROX Doubles, finishing in a record-breaking 58:07—the first sub-1 hour finish for the Philippines in men’s doubles.
[RELATED: Nico Bolzico, Gabb Rosario set Philippine sub-1 HYROX doubles record in Singapore]
3. Pickleball
If you haven’t tried pickleball, why not give it a shot?
Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, quickly becoming a global sensation. Its simple rules make it accessible to all ages—from kids to seniors—while offering a fun, social, and active experience.
[ALSO READ: Smash hit: Why pickleball has everyone talking (and playing)]
The sport can even be played on streets. Last year, delegates from the Global Pickleball Congress Manila, along with officials from the Global Pickleball Federation and Philippine Pickleball Federation, hosted a Street Pickleball event in Ortigas Center, Pasig City, letting locals experience the game firsthand.
4. Trail Running
Break free from concrete pavements and explore nature.
[ALSO READ: Unli-ahon, unli hike: Spartan Trail winners share why they love trail runs]
Trail running takes you along grassy lanes, sandy paths, muddy trails, river crossings, rocky tracks, and slippery slopes, turning every run into an adventure. It’s a great way to challenge your endurance, discover new landscapes, and enjoy the outdoors.
5. Running
Running touches lives in many ways.
For some, it’s about staying active and healthy.
[RELATED: Cancer survivor finds new strength on the running track]
For others, it’s fueled by passion and personal goals.
[RELATED: Meet Rogelio Espe, the oldest marathoner at 2025 Trilogy Run Asia]
Professional athletes also rely on running as part of their training.
Whatever inspires you to lace up your shoes, the key is the same: keep moving, embrace the challenge, and enjoy every step.
[ALSO READ: SEA Games champ Erika Burgos explains why pushing through hard days is key for runners]
Whether it’s chasing adventure on trails, pushing limits in the gym, or taking your first strides as a runner, the most important thing is to have fun along the way.
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Inna Mina is a sportswriter with a passion for telling stories that go beyond the scoreboard.
She covers running, athletics, and other major Philippine sporting events, while also following grassroots sports, athlete journeys, and women in sports. Her work also includes lifestyle stories on health, fitness, and community.