The Olympics are filled with all kinds of sports that are practiced and celebrated throughout the world. There are the sports that most of us first think of, like Track and Field, Basketball, and Gymnastics, but there are far more included in the Olympics than you may realize.
There are about 40 different sports included in the Rio Summer Olympics with multiple events in each. While the major sports are going to be filled with excitement, emotion and familiar faces, there are a few underrated sports that I highly recommend watching these Olympic games.
Archery
Archery isn't a sport you see everyday, and few sports come with as little room for error as archery does. One centimeter or a quick gust of wind could mean the difference between a gold and a silver.
Canoe Slalom
Canoe slalom is keeps your eyes glued to the tv screen. With tight corners, rushing water and a race against the clock, it's hard to not get excited while watching.
Cycling (BMX/Mountain/Road/Track)
Cycling has many different terrains and events, each with high speeds and a large amount of athletes competing. The first place spot could be taken at any time due to crashes, bike malfunctions or final burst of energy. You never know who the winner is until the very last moment.
Rhythmic Gymnastics
Rhythmic gymnastics is art just as much as sport. With music, choreography and props, you are guarantied to see challenging moves that leave you in awe.
Rugby
Rugby might be the most intense and action packed sports there is. There is never a dull moment let alone a chance to catch your breath.
Synchronized Swimming
Synchronized swimming is another art and sport crossover. The costumes, formations and stories told by these athletes just takes your breath away.
Trampoline
Trampoline is one of the more unusual sports in the Olympics. It's a must watch because when else would you watch an event like this. Trampoline takes the skill and strength of gymnastics while adding some of the flight and flare you might see in diving.
Every Olympic sport is worth watching. You are guarantied to witness dramatic upsets, emotional victories and history being made every time you tune in; why not watch as much of it as you can?
To find out when each Olympic sports airs, Check out:
2016 Rio Olympic Full Schedule
or
Watch every sport live with the NBC Sports app