To this day people argue about the status of Poker and many laugh when the game is referred to as a sport.  Without a doubt, I consider it to be a real sport. When played on the professional level, it is a highly skill-based game that requires a great deal of stamina to participate in a tournament. Just look at the top players like Sofia Lövgren, Dan Colman or Mike McDonald. All of them are in great shape for a reason. A well-balanced diet and physical exercise help increase levels of focus and stamina.

Professional poker players train and hone their skill every day, just like players in any other sport. This game is not based on luck or gambling. You must be able to analyse every situation unfolding at the table thoroughly. It is not easy to make a correct decision based on the information you have in front of you. Professional players train for years before they can participate in a big poker tournament.

I would even say that poker is the best sport for beginners who are willing to work hard to reach a professional level. This goal is much easier to achieve in poker than in any other competitive sport. For example, you won’t be able to train or participate in F1 racing without a large sum of money. You must have a lot of cash to pay for training and equipment if you want to get good at it.

In poker, you don’t need much to practice and improve your skills. Most online casinos have live poker rooms where you can practice with small bets. Just make sure to pick a licensed online casino.  Trust me! You want to play on a legit website to keep your money and personal information safe.

Also, I think that in poker players are much more competitive than in football, rugby or cricket. In world-class tournaments the stakes are high. Prize pools reach one to ten million pounds easily. You have to pay from your own pocket to join the tournament, and you go home with an empty wallet if you lose. In football, players are getting paid regardless of how they perform. They do get bonuses for doing well, but they won’t be losing any of their own money no matter how badly they play.

Let us have a look at Google’s definition of “sport” which states that it is an activity that must involve skill and physical exertion. I think poker makes the cut because it does require skill and playing in a professional tournament is utterly exhausting. But that is just my opinion. I am sure that debates on this matter will continue for many years to come.

If you are considering poker as a sport, then please do some cardio sport along side it!

PledgeSports is a revolutionary crowdfunding and sponsorship platform dedicated to sport.

For all the latest sports news follow PledgeSports on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.