Character-Building Benefits of Sailing

Does competitive sailing develop character? This article in Sailing Scuttlebutt describes 10 socio-emotional benefits of sailing. Read the full article for details.

1. Grit
2. Confidence
3. Teamwork
4. Friendship
5. Sportsmanship
6. Learning to lose
7. Patience
8. Responsibility
9. Managing emotions
10. Discipline

Supporting Evidence

We found two research studies supporting claims for improved character development.

Sailing benefits for young people – study confirms sport can boost character development – reported in the Wharfedale Observer. This article summarizes studies done during the RYA’s re-launch of its youth grassroots program, OnBoard. The studies found sailing nurtures seven key strengths: creativity, confidence, teamwork, communication, determination, independence and performance.

An exploration of the perceived health, life skill and academic benefits of dinghy sailing for 9–13-year-old school children – from the Journal of Adventure Education and Outdoor Learning.  This study found six themes highlighting physical and mental health benefits.

Health Benefits

Besides developing character, sailing leads to good health. We did not find any research-based studies, but here’s a nice article on the Top 10 Health Benefits of Sailing from Health Fitness Revolution. This article claims the following health benefits (despite the title, the article only lists nine benefits):

1. Muscle strength and endurance
2. Cardiovascular fitness
3. Mental wellness
4. Lowers stress levels
5. Increases agility
6. Improves concentration
7. Improves communication skills
8. Spatial awareness
9. Organizational skills

Top Sailing Fitness Principles and Exercises
Sail, Race and Win: Take A Serious Approach to Improvement