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Did you know? Over a quarter of Brits think they could qualify for the 2028 Olympics in LA if they start training now?
This staggering statistic mirrors the inherent optimism and confidence synonymous with the famous American “can do” attitude. And call us crazy (it’s in our name), but we don’t think that qualifying for the next Olympics is completely out of the question if you start now—stranger things have happened (*cough Ray Gun cough*).
Of course, it won’t be easy! Training and qualifying for an Olympic sport usually takes decades of hard work. But you could still have a chance.
So, realistically, what sport are you most likely to qualify for? They’re not all made equal when it comes to your chances.
So, let’s look at the sports you could take up now to see yourself with a chance of taking home gold in the 2028 Olympics.
An Olympic-sized reality check
Let’s just get real before we get carried away. Yes, we are a little crazy, but even we know that getting into the Olympics is no easy feat, never mind considering the odds of going home with a medal.
Most Olympic athletes start training almost as soon as they can walk, with rigorous regimes ready to face off intense competition. US superstar Simone Biles started training for gymnastics at age six, and Phelps was in the pool swimming laps by age seven.
Now, we’re by no means suggesting that some sports are easier than others. Each comes with its fair share of hurdles and challenges. But, there are some that offer better opportunities if you have long since waved bye to your childhood.
There’s also your own personal circumstances and body type to consider, and leaning into these natural advantages will make it more likely that you succeed.
Feeling inspired? Let’s get into it.
Olympic qualifiers: The most realistic contenders
Let’s face it. Unless you’ve already been training your whole life as the future Pommel Horse Guy or have a wingspan to match Michael Phelps—it’s unlikely you’re going to be able to compete in the big hitters.
But don’t fret! There are still plenty of other options (around 32, to be precise) that could allow you to fulfill your competitive dreams and make it to LA in 2028—especially if you’re already hitting the gym and fuelling your body in a way that allows you to complete.
Weightlifting
If you’re already into the gym and weightlifting, then it might be the Olympic sport that feels most like home.
You've already built a solid foundation if you’ve spent years perfecting your squats, deadlifts, and bench presses—now it’s time to turn that natural talent into a perfected technique and take home the gold.
Challenges…
Weightlifting isn’t just about who can lift the most weight—it’s also about technique. Mastering the clean and jerk or the snatch requires precision, flexibility, and coordination, not just raw power.
Transitioning from standard gym-goer to Olympic lifting means you’ll need to focus on refining your technique, which can be a steep learning curve.
Training tips…
Weave Olympic lifting techniques into your current routine. Start by working with lighter weights to master the form, then gradually increase the load as your technique improves. Consider hiring a coach or attending specialised classes to ensure you’re lifting correctly and safely.
Read: The beginners guide to proper weight lifting form
Archery
Archery is a sport that anyone can take up, regardless of their athletic background. It’s all about precision, mental focus, and a steady hand—skills that aren’t necessarily tied to physical strength or years of prior experience.
Whether you’ve been hitting the gym for years or are just looking for a new challenge, archery offers a unique opportunity to excel through practice and concentration.
The best part?
You don’t need to be an elite athlete to get started.
Challenges…
While archery might seem straightforward, it demands high mental discipline. Mastering accuracy requires more than just a good eye—it’s about maintaining calmness and consistency under pressure.
Each shot is a test of your ability to focus and control your body, making it a sport that’s as much mental as it is physical.
Be prepared for the learning curve—precision takes time to perfect, and it’s easy to get frustrated when those arrows aren’t landing where you want them to.
Training tips…
To get started in archery, begin with basic target practice. Invest in a beginner’s bow and spend time familiarizing yourself with the equipment. As you progress, gradually increase the difficulty of your shots, focusing on consistency and accuracy.
Consider joining a local archery club or taking lessons to refine your technique. Over time, you’ll develop the muscle memory and mental sharpness needed to hit the mark consistently.
Don’t forget to try mental training techniques, such as meditation or visualization, to enhance your focus during practice and competition.
Shooting (Pistol or rifle)
Remember Yusuf Dikec? Turkey’s viral shooting sensation turned up with standard glasses. Yes, with one hand in his pocket, while shooting, he managed to take home Turkey’s second medal and became a fan favourite in Paris 2024.
Shooting is a sport where precision takes center stage, making it an attractive option for those who may not have a background in traditional sports.
Like archery, shooting emphasises steady hands, controlled breathing, and mental clarity—skills that can be developed through focused practice rather than physical strength.
This makes it a realistic option for anyone willing to put in the time to master the art of hitting the target.
@streammaxnordic TURKIYEEE 🇹🇷🇹🇷🇹🇷 Stream every moment of the Olympic Games #Paris2024, live on Max. #olympics #turkiye #turkey #yusufdikec ♬ original sound - Max Nordic
Challenges…
The main challenge in shooting is the mental aspect. Every shot requires intense concentration and the ability to maintain calm under pressure.
Small factors like your breath or even your heartbeat can affect your aim, so developing a steady hand and a clear mind is crucial. Consistency is key, and that comes from disciplined practice and mental preparation.
Training tips…
To start your journey in shooting, visit local shooting ranges where you can get comfortable with handling firearms.
Begin with basic shooting drills to build your confidence and accuracy. As you progress, focus on refining your technique and increasing your speed. Incorporate mental training into your routine—deep breathing exercises, visualization, and mindfulness can help you stay calm and focused, which is essential for success in this sport.
Canoe or kayak sprint
For those who are regularly hitting the gym, the canoe or kayak sprint offers a natural extension of your existing strength, particularly in the upper body.
This sport relies heavily on arm and shoulder power, combined with the endurance to maintain high-intensity effort over a sprint distance.
If you’ve been working on building muscle and stamina in the gym, this could be the Olympic sport where your hard work pays off in a competitive setting.
Challenges…
While strength is a significant advantage in canoeing and kayaking, these sports also require mastery of technique and balance.
Paddling efficiently isn’t just about brute force—it’s about rhythm, coordination, and the ability to sustain power over a race.
You’ll also need to develop cardiovascular endurance to keep up the pace throughout the sprint, which can be a demanding challenge even for the fittest athletes.
Training tips…
To prepare for canoe or kayak sprinting, start by incorporating paddling exercises into your regular cardio routine. Get out on the water regularly to practice and build your paddling technique.
Working with a coach can also help refine your technique and improve your race performance. Oh, and focus on building your endurance with high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to simulate the sprint conditions you’ll face in competition.
Read: How to improve endurance and level up your workouts
Start with a Crazy idea…
So, there you have it…some of the sports you are most likely to qualify for in the 2028 Olympics—if you start now.
Look, we’re not saying it’s a given. In fact, it’s very unlikely, given that people train their entire lives for this opportunity.
But nothing is impossible.
And if you’re already hitting the gym, giving yourself a goal is motivational, if nothing else. And will give you a reason to keep going even when you don’t feel like it.
You can also fuel your body with Crazy Nutrition sports performance supplements to help you reach peak performance and get ahead of the game.
