Being a Christian in the Extreme Sports World: How to Live Out Your Faith in an Environment That Makes It Very Difficult to Do So

Gavin Rhodes

 

It’s no secret that the extreme sports community is not the most wholesome group. I lived and worked as a full time snowboard instructor in Colorado, and I was able to experience this first hand. These guys were amazing snowboarders (much better than me), but they had no real purpose in their lives apart from finding fresh pow. When they weren’t riding, they would get high or drunk until the resort opened the next day. Living in an environment like this as a Christian can be hard, and finding other people with the same belief system can be even harder. So how do we live out our faith in a world that is very far from christ? How can we be an example of God’s love to people who live like this?

1. Stay Rooted in Your Identity in Christ

In an environment where identity is often wrapped up in skill, reputation, or the next adrenaline rush, it’s essential to remember who you are in Christ. Your value doesn’t come from the tricks you can throw or the vert you have on your pass; it’s rooted in the love and purpose God has for you. Keeping your focus on this helps you find confidence, even when surrounded by a very different set of values. Make time for prayer, dive into the Bible regularly, and surround yourself (even virtually, if necessary) with other believers who can encourage you. I would have regular FaceTime calls with my family and girlfriend, where I’d explain everything that was happening and talk it through with them. Another key part of staying rooted in my faith was getting connected with a local church. At first, I didn’t know anyone at the church I attended, but I made a point to keep going every week because I knew it was important if I wanted to stay grounded in my faith.

1 John 3:1 “See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are. The reason why the world does not know us is that it did not know him.”

 

2. Be Real, Not “Religious”

Oftentimes people expect Christians to just preach or judge them. But sometimes a better way to show God’s love is by being genuine, relatable, and willing to listen without being pushy. Show interest in others’ lives and be open to hearing their stories. People are often more receptive to faith when they see it displayed through kindness, humility, and authenticity. Instead of trying to change people, focus on connecting with them. Let them see that you’re someone who doesn’t shy away from hard topics but also doesn’t compromise your values. Eventually, they may see something different about you and open up the opportunity for you to share more about your faith. 

Matthew 7:1-2 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with the judgment you pronounce you will be judged, and with the measure you use it will be measured to you.”

3. Find Small Opportunities to Serve

Serving others, even in subtle ways, can show the love of Jesus. This could mean helping someone learn something in the park, checking in on them if they fall, or just being there for them if they’re dealing with personal struggles. Small acts of kindness stand out in any community and can open doors for deeper conversations. People notice when you live differently, especially if your actions show that you genuinely care for others.

Mark 10:45 “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

4. Be Ready to Answer Questions

If you’re living the way God wants you to, those actions alone could spark curiosity. When people ask why you don’t drink or smoke as much or why you treat everyone with kindness, be ready to share your faith. You don’t need a rehearsed speech—just be honest about how your relationship with God influences your choices and how Jesus saved us all by dying on the cross. Share how your faith has given you a foundation that goes beyond temporary highs. And I know, this is much easier said than done. That’s why I think it’s important as Christians for us to study why we believe what we believe and become confident in our answers to those questions. 

1 Peter 3:15 “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect”

 

5. Trust in God’s Timing

You may feel like you’re planting seeds without seeing any change in the people around you, but don’t underestimate your impact. God often works in ways we don’t see right away. Trust that He’s using you, even in subtle ways, to impact people’s lives. It’s not always about bringing someone to faith immediately, but rather about planting seeds and being a consistent example of God’s love.

1 Corinthians 3:7 “So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God who gives the growth.”

 

Living out your faith in the extreme sports world is challenging, but it’s also a huge opportunity to be a witness where not many others are. By staying rooted in your faith and being authentic you can show God’s love in an environment that especially needs it. You may not see the changes right away, but trust that God has you there for a reason. So lock in, and let your actions speak louder than words—you might be the only example of Christ that some people see.