Low Impact Sports, the New Frontier of Sports Investments

March 17, 2025

Low impact sports have seen extraordinary growth in recent years, transforming the way many people approach physical activity.
Padel, pickleball, and walking football have become true social phenomena, winning over an increasingly broad audience thanks to their accessibility and ability to adapt to all ages and skill levels.
Set to grow even further in 2025, this trend represents a monumental economic opportunity for companies and investors ready to bet on a new era in sports.

The Key to the Success of Low Impact Sports is Accessibility

Undoubtedly, what most distinguishes these disciplines is their physical and social accessibility.

Low impact sports are designed to accommodate different age groups, physical conditions, and athletic skill levels, encouraging participation across the board.

Walking football, for example, is particularly popular among the over-50 demographic.

A modified version of traditional soccer eliminating running, it keeps players active while reducing joint strain.

Padel, with its smaller courts and focus on collaboration, is another prime example of a sport that promotes inclusivity.

Similarly, pickleball, which blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, is gaining traction due to its casual and enjoyable nature.

A Growing Market

Projections suggest the global low impact sports market will grow exponentially by 2030, drawing investments in infrastructure, equipment, and sponsorships.

The increasing demand for padel courts, for instance, has pushed real estate companies and developers to repurpose existing spaces or create new centers.

Likewise, the personalized equipment sector has recorded a surge in sales.

Brands like Adidas and Wilson have already capitalized on this trend, launching product lines tailored to these disciplines.

Low Impact Sports: Opportunities for Businesses

The most significant advantage is the opportunity to connect with a diverse audience, building strong and loyal communities.

Thanks to the social nature of these sports, players often form tight-knit groups that regularly attend the same clubs.

This behavior makes them the perfect platform for experiential marketing activations, events, and loyalty programs.

It is no surprise, then, that major brands are exploring innovative ways to sponsor tournaments, provide equipment, and collaborate with emerging sports influencers.

Lastly, the media segment is also following suit.

Coverage of these disciplines is increasing across both traditional and digital platforms, further expanding their visibility.

Inclusion and Wellness as Strategic Drivers

Behind the success of low impact sports is an ever-growing focus on wellness.

In the post-pandemic era, many people have rediscovered the importance of a balanced lifestyle.

These activities provide an ideal way to stay active without risking injury.

From an investor’s perspective, this trend is not just about numbers but also about social impact.

Supporting the development of infrastructure for accessible sports means responding to the growing demand for recreational activities that improve quality of life while simultaneously contributing to a more inclusive society.

Digitalization and New Business Models

Finally, as is often the case, technological innovation plays a key role in the growth of low impact sports.

Platforms dedicated to booking courts make it easier to access these activities, while performance-tracking apps allow users to improve and compete in a healthy way.

Additionally, subscription-based business models are emerging as an appealing option for sports centers, ensuring recurring revenue and customer retention.

At the same time, even the eSports universe has ventured into the realm of low impact sports, with virtual simulators faithfully replicating the dynamics of games like padel.

If you’d like a free consultation to discover what kind of sponsorship might suit you, contact us. We’re waiting for you!