<p>So here's the deal: I've never been what you would call athletic. Tried tae kwon do when I was about 14, ended up getting the crap beat out of me every class and needless to say didn't enjoy it very much. Did horse-back riding for quite a while but was always something of a nervous rider, even around my own horse.</p>
<p>Anyway, deep down I've always felt kind of inferior because I've never had a special talent or hobby or anything like that and I know I'm going into an environment where I will be in the minority. It seems like every other entering freshman I've talked to online is good at some sport or musical instrument, etc. (did I mention how I played the flute for three years and then quit? I just can't stick with things and now I'm coming to have a lot of regrets)</p>
<p>I'd really like to get involved in some kind of group sport in college (specifically, Northwestern) but I'm wondering if there are any options for people who have NO previous experience in any sports? My guess is no, but hell, if my mom is paying for college I want to try and get as much out of it as possible. I'd love to learn something new and not feel like an idiot when someone asks me if I have any hobbies ... </p>
<p>Intramural sports! Intramural sports are fun, noncompetitive sports that are played between different teams on campus. They include lots of really fun and lighthearted sports like badmitton, ping pong, and intertube water polo! They're a great way to make friends, stay in shape, and keep up a healthy hobby through college. You can also take up running or by a bike, and maybe ask a cute guy to go running/biking with you. :)</p>
<p>I agree with the above poster. Most importantly just get involved in some way or another. No one is going to care if you aren't super talented in something anyway. Just go, relax, and have fun. Other people are trying to do the same thing trust me.</p>
<p>LoL, thanks :D I checked out NU's intramural sports website and flag football is starting to sound fun! Um ... not sure if it's for girls as well but we'll see. I think one of my main problems is that I'm really, really self-conscious and I have a hard time letting loose and having fun in front of people.</p>
<p>People in college can be very competitive intellectually, socially, athletically, politically, philosophically, emotionally, financially, etc. It's all a part of college life. Just be true to yourself and don't try to be something you're not. Experiment out of your "safety zone" but don't get caught so far out on a limb that you can't recover.</p>
<p>Start a "united coach potato's club" and have some fun with it...</p>
<p>Yea if you got room take a class on a sport or some P.E. Class.</p>
<p>At Northern Arizona we can take snowboarding, skiing, scuba diving its really a lot of fun and you can get credit.</p>
<p>Otherwise you should try your luck in a rec sport just for recreation. Frats has teams, houses and friends can make teams. Just find some people not ttaking it to serious and have a blast.</p>
<p>Schools also have very accessible gyms that you can use. They offer classes too, some schools have dancing aerobics things...I think JHU has stripaerobics lol. </p>
<p>There's also the option of club sports...where you get to travel to other schools and compete with their clubs.</p>
<p>I took beginning golf, and we only went to the driving range one time because it was so cold, never actually went golfing in that class. I recommend taking a backpacking or camping class, they are very fun, you meet a lot of nice people, and you can use it too get in shape.</p>
<p>take it from someone who is awful at sports, I didn't learn to ride my bike until 3rd grade. I tried 3 years:( but I still learned. Just keep trying sports out until you like one. If you don't like one, then don't do it. You will find something you like.</p>
<p>Hey, I'm like that too-- I didn't learn to ride a bike until I was 9...didn't know how to swim until I was 8. I ran cross country and track and swam for a bit in high school, and I was pretty much the worst person on the team. Sports can still be fun though...I really like badminton and skiing.</p>
<p>
[quote]
Intramural sports are fun, noncompetitive sports that are played between different teams on campus.
[/quote]
True, but with a caveat. Larger schools have leagues with different levels of skill. You can find a level that is friendly and essentially non-competitive. But there are also leagues with kids who could have played in college, the ex-HS jocks. Not to worry, to the OP, just be sure the league you're signing up for is a "friendly" one. Also when you get off to college its likely your dorm will sponsor teams and thats a great way to get to know your neighbors and have fun.</p>
<p>and remember, there are probably tons of other people like you--"nonathletic"--who are trying out intramurals and getting involved in sports for the first time. besides, maybe you'll discover a hidden talent!</p>