Sports Animes That'll Make You Want to Join the Game
Need motivation to start a new sport? It may be unconventional, but instead of jumping straight into catching real live games, you might want to watch an animated series first. Whether it's the characters or the storyline, there's something about these shows that gets you hooked much more quickly—and we've got just the list to get you going. From Haikyuu!! to Air Gear, here are 20 sports animes that'll make you want to learn a new sport.
1. Haikyuu!!
There's a reason why Haikyuu!! is so popular even among those who don't play volleyball, and it's because the series is both realistic and fun to watch. The characters, even those beyond the main group, are all memorable and unique as well. If you're not inspired to start playing volleyball after watching, you might at least be tempted to catch a live match.
2. The Prince of Tennis
Tennis fans, where are you? If you haven't watched the Prince of Tennis yet, you're missing out. Sure, the characters might seem too old for their age, and they might have odd attack names, but it'll still make you develop an interest in the sport if you're not into it already.
3. Slam Dunk
Slam Dunk has been regarded again and again as the basketball anime, and only those who have watched it will know why. Similar to Haikyuu!!, Slam Dunk is grounded in realism and teaches you the basics of the sport, which has led to it becoming one of the most influential series of all time. The mastermind behind it all, Takehiko Inoue, also has a wheelchair basketball-themed manga called Real.
4. Run with the Wind
If you've never been into long-distance running, then Run with the Wind might just change your view. Equal parts humorous and emotional, you'll definitely feel the urge to step into your sneakers (and maybe join a marathon) after bingeing this.
5. Free!
Friendship, rivalries, drama, and swimming? What else could you possibly ask for? Free! has it all. This anime is guaranteed to make you want to dive into the nearest pool of water, and it's a must-watch for swimmers and non-swimmers alike—especially in the summer.
6. Chihayafuru
What happens when you mix shoujo (stories for young women) and shounen (stories for young men) elements together? Well, you'd probably get something like Chihayafuru. Despite karuta (Japanese playing cards) being a sport that's quite niche, many viewers are tempted to learn the game after watching, which speaks volumes to how well-written and well-executed the series is.
7. Birdie Wing
You may think golf is boring, but give Birdie Wing a watch and you just might change your mind. Sure, it's a fun (and honestly, pretty absurd) take on the sport, but if you want to watch women thriving in a male-dominated hobby, then this show is made for you.
8. Eyeshield 21
American football might be well-recognized in the West, but not so much in Japan, which makes it truly impressive how well-known and beloved Eyeshield 21 became. Centered around a high school boy who plays a running back, if you weren't into football before, this series might change your mind.
Jean-Daniel Francoeur on Pexels
9. Initial D
For fans of Fast and Furious and Tokyo Drift, Initial D is for you. This is street racing at its finest, and if you're particularly into action and thrilling chases, and you're also a big car enthusiast, this is well worth a binge.
10. Yuri on Ice
Dancing is tough enough on its own, but dancing on skates is another level entirely. But that's exactly what figure skating is, and there's perhaps no other sport that's as graceful, dangerous, and precise as it. Yuri on Ice not only shows the beauty of it all (with choreography done by a real-life Japanese figure skater, Kenji Miyamoto), but also touches viewers' hearts with an LGBTQ+ love story at its core.
LOGAN WEAVER | @LGNWVR on Unsplash
11. Ace of the Diamond
In a country where baseball is the sport of choice—producing players like Shohei Ohtani and Kenta Maeda—it comes as no surprise that Ace of the Diamond is so iconic. With realistic gameplay and relatable characters, the series will make you into a new fan of the sport if you're not one already.
12. Hajime no Ippo
Hajime no Ippo follows the life of a high school boy who trains to become a boxer after being saved by one during an after-school bullying session. More than being well worth the binge (and might make you want to learn how to box), the series has also helped viewers gain the courage to stand up to their own bullies.
13. Kuroko's Basketball
Looking for another basketball anime to watch? Look no further than Kuroko's Basketball. While not as grounded in realism as Slam Dunk (and often features some superpower-like moves), it's a must-watch for the intensity, excitement, and characters.
14. SK8 the Infinity
Into skateboarding? Well, if you're not, SK8 the Infinity will surely make you a fan. Along with impeccable fashion, unique characters, and heartwarming friendships, this series is an absolute whirlwind of action and fun, not to mention amazing animation.
15. Yowamushi Pedal
Yowamushi Pedal might just be a story centered around a cycling club, but it's so much more than that. Along with intense races, a great cast of characters and fun team dynamics run this show. Plus, it's known for its comedy as well.
16. Megalobox
What happens if you bring boxing and sci-fi together? Well, Megalobox shows you that exact result. Basically, boxers fight while wearing a metal frame that makes them infinitely more powerful. While it's a bit of an exaggerated take on boxing, it might still tempt you enough to get into the regular sport.
17. Ping Pong the Animation
The first thing you notice about Ping Pong the Animation might not even be its core sport—it's the distinct art style. But love it or hate it, the animation is fluid and immersive, which fits well with the quick intensity of table tennis. If you're not immediately drawn in by the two protagonists and their stories, you will be by the sport.
18. Tsurune
Tsurune is another anime where you might be equally captivated by the characters, visuals, and the sport itself. Sure, the show is about archery, but it's more grounded in its unique cast of characters and their dynamics than anything.
Pierre-Yves Beaudouin on Wikimedia
19. Bakuten!!
Bakuten!! is about a former baseball player who discovers rhythmic gymnastics. That premise might seem too bare bones, but you're seriously missing out if you don't give this show a shot. Praised for its characters, animations, and performances, this anime might just surprise you.
20. Air Gear
Gang fights on futuristic rollerblades? That might sound completely absurd, but nothing about Air Gear is normal, and that's what makes the show so good (though fairly raunchy). You'll definitely have a great time watching all the crazy battles, and it'll probably make you want to put on your rollerblades and do a loop outside.
