You can do adventure sports for your whole career break, or do a short course while travelling, volunteering or working.
You can just do adventure sports for fun, or you can go on to become an instructor and work around the world. If you do an instructor course, make sure your qualification is internationally-recognised.
Adventure sports can be broadly divided into:
- Watersports - surfing, windsurfing, scuba diving, waterskiing, kayaking, etc
- Sailing - sailboats, yachting, dinghies, etc
- Winter sports - skiing and snowboarding
- Other adventure sports - climbing, quad-biking, etc
Your course provider will be able to help you with things like visa requirements and insurance (you need to make sure your insurance covers the particular sport you are doing). They'll also be able to help you with kit (although most equipment will usually be provided) and advise on working in the industry, if that's what you want to do.Some instructor courses have a job-finding service, and some even guarantee jobs.
Don't be put off if you're a complete beginner or you think you're too old. Your attitude and potential are much more important than that - and your instructors will help you to achieve your potential!