Is darts a sport? According to recent research, more than half of Brits believe that it isn’t.
In a recent poll, 29% of the 2000 participating British adults stated that darts doesn’t qualify as a sport because it lacks physical exertion, and 27% answered that darts is better described as a leisure activity, rather than a competition. 45% of those surveyed believed darts to be a game rather than a sport, and 31% were against darts being included as an Olympic sport.
Whilst this study suggests that an overwhelming majority of British don’t consider darts a sport, we firmly believe that it is!
Read on to learn more about why darts should be categorised as a competitive sport, rather than merely a leisure activity.
Defining sport
Before we discuss the important reasons why darts is a sport, it’s important to first understand what defines a sport. While the definition can vary from source to source, it usually features the following key characteristics:
● Physical activity - A sport typically involves some level of physical exertion and requires a degree of skill, coordination, and sometimes strategic thinking.
● Competition - A key fundamental of sport is the element of competition. This can be against oneself, other individuals, or teams. The aim of sport is usually to achieve a specific goal, or to outperform opponents, based on specific rules.
● Rules - Sports usually feature rules to ensure fair play and provide a clear framework for competition.
● Physical prowess - Many definitions of sport emphasise the importance of testing physical or athletic abilities.
● The element of play - Whilst competition is at the centre of most definitions of sport, enjoyment and playfulness are still key elements.
Whilst these are some of the features most frequently used to describe sport, the definition can be socially interpreted in many different ways, and has evolved over time based on trends in society. Some definitions of sport have evolved to include games that involve a high level of mental skill and competition, rather than just physical activity.
What makes darts a sport?
When you look at some of the key definitions of sport, there are many important reasons why our favourite game of skill and strategy deserves to be given the sport label.
Playing darts requires skill and precision. It isn’t just about throwing something; playing darts at a competitive level requires incredible hand-eye coordination, muscle control, and fine motor skills, in order to consistently hit small targets on a dartboard from a specified distance.
Beyond the physical aspect of darts play, it also requires intense mental focus and strategy. Players must plan their shots, considering the scores they need, as well as the position of their opponent and the scores they require.
In addition to the physical and mental skill involved in playing darts, there are many other characteristics of darts that are closely linked to widely recognised definitions of sport, for example:
● Competition - Like any widely recognised sport, darts has a thriving structured competitive scene with local leagues, all the way up to professional circuits, national championships, and international tournaments. Players compete head-to-head for rankings, prize money, and prestigious titles.
● Dedicated training - Competitive and professional darts players spend significant time practicing and honing their skills. This includes repetitive throwing, mental preparation exercises, and even physical conditioning to maintain stamina during long matches.
● Specific rules and regulations - Darts has a well-defined set of rules on gameplay, scoring, and equipment. This standardised structure is a hallmark of organised sports.
● Professional athletes and competitions - Many people dedicate their lives to the sport of darts, earning a living through tournament winnings and endorsements. These professionals show a high level of skill and commitment to their sport.
● Spectator interest - Darts events attract large crowds and have a dedicated global fanbase. The excitement of a close match and the skill displayed by top players are undeniably engaging for viewers. In recent years, the audience for darts in the UK has grown monumentally with the successes of young British darts professionals like Luke Littler.
Bringing darts to the masses
So, is darts a sport? While a portion of the British public might raise an eyebrow and continue to question its merit, the evidence overwhelmingly points to darts as a true sport. Success at darts demands an extremely unique combination of physical prowess, precision hand-eye coordination, and intense mental fortitude, honed through endless hours of practice.
Darts is an extremely accessible sport, with darts equipment affordable and easy to purchase, and the chance to play in all kinds of environments, from playing with friends at home, to joining a pub or club league, all the way through to professional competitions. However, we feel that dismissing darts as no more than a pub game completely overlooks the dedication, skill, and competitive spirit that are at the heart of the sport.
The fierce competitive nature of the game has firmly planted darts in the sporting arena, regardless of who agrees with this statement. With darts appealing to an increasingly younger audience, it is a sport that entertains millions of people worldwide, and the numbers are fast growing.
If you have changed your mind about darts’ status as a sport and want to try your hand, or feel inspired by your favourite professionals, at Double Top Darts, we provide a one-stop-shop for all you need for darts enjoyment and success.
