How do you work in outdoor sports?

In a world where nature and outdoor activities are becoming increasingly popular, working in the field of outdoor sports offers a host of exciting opportunities. Whether you enjoy hiking, climbing, kayaking, mountain biking or any other outdoor sport, there are ways to turn your passion into a rewarding career. In this article, you’ll find out about the different routes and opportunities for entering and progressing in the dynamic and diverse world of outdoor sports.

Contents

In a nutshell:

Working in outdoor sports offers a wide range of rewarding opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
Careers in this field include roles as guides, instructors, photographers, event managers and many more.
There are a variety of study options available for outdoor sports professions, including vocational training, university degrees and practical training.
At INSEEC, there are two options for training in outdoor sports professions: the Bachelor Sport Business and the MSc Marketing & Management du Sport Outdoor.

Definition

What is the outdoor sports world?

Outdoor sports encompass a wide range of physical and recreational activities practised outdoors, often in natural environments such as mountains, forests, rivers or oceans. These activities can include hiking, climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, skiing, surfing, camping and paragliding, as well as equipment, technical clothing and associated services.

This domain offers outdoor enthusiasts the chance to connect with nature, take on physical challenges and discover new horizons, while cultivating a healthy and active lifestyle.

Market

What is the outdoor market in France?

The outdoor sports market in France is enjoying sustained growth, driven by the enthusiasm of the French for outdoor activities, particularly in the wake of the health crisis. Here are some key figures:

A fast-growing market: By 2022, the outdoor market in France has been estimated at around €8.5 billion, with a significant increase in segments linked to nature sports such as hiking and trail running.
The rise of ecotourism: Over 58% of French people regularly take part in outdoor activities, with a growing preference for eco-responsible, immersive experiences in nature.
Flagship regions: The Alps, Pyrenees and coastal areas (such as Brittany and the Côte d’Azur) are the main destinations for these activities, boosting local appeal and stimulating the regional economy.
The equipment and textiles market: This segment is worth around €3 billion in France, dominated by brands such as Decathlon, Salomon and The North Face, which are responding to a demand that is increasingly focused on sustainability and innovation.

Current trends are :

Digitalisation: The rise of dedicated applications (such as Strava or AllTrails) and online communities is boosting the commitment of cyclists.
Sustainable development: Consumers now prefer eco-responsible equipment and environmentally-friendly practices.
Sports tourism: Outdoor events and activities are playing a growing role in tourism, with a major impact on the local economy and infrastructure.

The outdoor market in France is not confined to the recreational sector; it also extends to the professional sector, offering career opportunities in marketing, management, technical equipment production and leadership.

Careers

What careers are there in outdoor sports?

The field of outdoor sports offers a multitude of exciting and diverse career opportunities, suited to different interests, skills and levels of experience. Here are just a few examples of possible careers in this field:

mountain or trekking guide ;
outdoor sports instructor (climbing, kayaking, surfing, etc.);
ranger or forest ranger ;
sports coach specialising in outdoor activities;
photographer or videographer specialising in outdoor sports;
designer of adventure or outdoor courses ;
outdoor sports event manager ;
specialist in outdoor equipment (sales, design, testing);
outdoor tourism consultant ;
trainer in first aid in natural environments.

Studies

What studies do you need to do to work in outdoor sports?

There are different educational routes to prepare for a career in outdoor sports, depending on each individual’s specific career aspirations. Here are some study options to consider:

vocational training or certified courses in specific areas such as climbing, kayaking and skiing;
university degrees in physical education, natural sciences or sports and leisure management ;
specialist courses in adventure tourism, environmental management or outdoor activity management;
practical placements or apprenticeships with experienced professionals in the chosen field.

Qualities & skills

What qualities and skills are essential for working in outdoor sports?

Working in outdoor sports requires a specific set of qualities and skills if you are to succeed and develop professionally.

Here are some of the essential qualities and skills needed to excel in this field:

passion for nature and outdoor activities: a genuine love and respect for nature is fundamental to working in outdoor sports;
technical skills: depending on the specific field of outdoor sports, it is crucial to master the necessary technical skills;
Physical fitness: working in outdoor sports often requires good physical condition.

Curriculum

Which course should you choose at INSEEC to train for a career in outdoor sports?

If you aspire to a career in the dynamic and exciting field of outdoor sports, INSEEC offers tailor-made programmes to help you achieve your professional goals.

Bachelor sport business

The Bachelor Sport Business offers students the chance to learn about sports management as a whole, with the option of specialising in outdoor sports. The programme enables students to develop skills in management, marketing, communication and entrepreneurship, while acquiring an in-depth knowledge of the sports sector. Through internships and personal experience, students can focus their studies on specific outdoor sports careers.

Continuing your studies in MSc Marketing & Management of Outdoor Sport

For those wishing to deepen their knowledge and specialise further in the field of outdoor sports, the MSc Marketing & Management of Outdoor Sport is an ideal option. This two-year Master of Science (MSc) programme is accessible after a bac +3. It is offered in Chambéry, a strategic location for a career in outdoor sports because of the presence of many companies in the sector.

In addition, the Chambéry campus offers an ideal environment for studying and training in the field of outdoor sports, with privileged access to local resources and companies in the sector.