Other sports to consider

medal in Athens in 2004.

Best for: Quick thinkers and those who enjoy oneon-one competition.

Rugby

The appeal: Part soccer and part football, rugby will return to the Olympics in 2016.

Seven-player teams run or kick the ball forward toward their goal, on a field the same size as a soccer field.

Rugby requires play-

Trampoline

The appeal: Trampoline is more forgiving and inclusive than gymnastics and is open to a wider range of ages and body types, said Jarka Novakova, coach at Novaks Gymnastics Center in Dumfries, Va. Trampoline, like gymnastics, divides competitors based on their abilities and the level of difficulty in their routines.

In competition, athletes have to stay within boundaries on a 14-by-7-foot trampoline bed and get enough

Water polo

The appeal: Water polo combines aspects of lacrosse and hockey with swimming, as teams of seven players (one goalie and six in the “field”) try to advance the ball to the other team’s goal while staying afloat in deep water.

There is some contact among players going after the ball. Water polo is lower-impact than running, making it easier for players to stick with the sport as they age.

Best for: Strong swimmers who want to try a team sport.