Airsoft Cebu enthusiasts can be seen enjoying this extreme activity despite the intense heat.
There are a lot of Cebuano gamers. Smartphones and computer apps have games that include close combat, racing, crosswords, match three, and so much more.
Close combat games in particular have become popular among kids, teenagers, and adults alike. Such intense scenarios require skillful maneuvers and tactics that keep you alert and excited.
But have you ever considered playing such a game in real life?
The Airsoft Cebu community offers participants a chance to experience a military simulation where their tactical skills and physical endurance are put to the test. This unique recreational activity is known to train both your body and mind.
However, it is also famous for the use of various gun models that use BBs or pellets for bullets, which are less lethal but can still hurt if you get shot.
Some would stick to your skin, and you can get tons of bruises even as you’re having fun. This is why players are kitted out in tactical gear to prevent major injuries.
This all sounds extremely intense and dangerous, but the activity has become increasingly popular over the years.
Teams and organizations have spread this underrated sport to the masses through several training courses and nationwide competitions.
Participants get a chance to experience a military simulation.
In Cebu alone, Loaded Lapu-Lapu organized an event called “Gubat sa Opon,” a national airsoft competition where various groups compete to be the best airsoft team in the country.
The competition has been running for the past three years, with the 2023 iteration held at the open grounds of Mactan Newtown.
The event continues to promote the sport’s growing community on the island.
So what is it about airsoft that has made it a beloved yet underrated sport for people to enjoy?
BRIEF HISTORY
Participants use tactical gear and weapons for a close quarters battle.
The sport started in Japan in the 1970s when residents gained interest in firearms despite their illegality. Gun enthusiasts soon invented an activity where they can participate in military simulations in a safe environment.
Yoshihitu Shimizu – the man credited to creating airsoft – experimented on a gun that shoots plastic pellets instead of real bullets. His invention, aptly called “Soft Air,” offered a safer way for enthusiasts to enjoy their firearms.
Soon, Japanese company Tokyo Marui used the Soft Air concept to create guns modeled after real-life firearms from around the world. The company is known for bringing airsoft to the masses, helping it become the renowned sport that it is today.
Soon, game modes were created for players to study and strategize. Currently, the two main game modes for airsoft are Military Simulation (MilSim) and Close Quarters Battle (CQB).
CQB consists of specific objectives that participants need to accomplish, one of which is a simulated bomb defusal. Teams then gain prime positions all around the field by preventing their opponents from advancing.
MilSim, on the other hand, is much more immersive, with participants recreating an actual battle, fully kitted out in loadouts.
This is usually done in larger fields, where players hide in prime positions so they can slowly and skillfully eliminate their enemies.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Airsoft consists of an obstacle course where teams have to run around in order to accomplish a given objective.
Constant movement is a great form of exercise that offers several health benefits.
- Weight Loss
This is a given since you’ll be active most of the time, running around from one place to another, adapting to your surroundings as you go along. You can control the intensity of your movements at your own pace.
There’s also crawling and jumping around, so your whole body will always be on the move. Suffice to say, this is the type of activity one would consider the survival of the fittest.
- Increased Stamina
This strenuous physical activity is known to increase your overall stamina, as the random bursts of energy you get from participating can help raise your endurance and energy levels.
This will help you retain your circadian rhythm throughout the week as well.
- Respiratory Health
We’re all encouraged to take some time outside and be one with nature. Since the sport is mostly played outdoors, usually where there are a lot of trees, you can take in the fresh air while working on your physical strength and endurance.
Some consider this a great way to relieve stress and unwind.
You can even use it as cardio exercise too.
MENTAL AND SOCIAL BENEFITS
Say hello to the passionate members of the Cebu Airsoft community!
While it can be intimidating, airsoft at its core is a game. It’s a fun activity that requires all of your focus and energy. And once you get the hang of it, you can get so deep into it that you’ll end up extremely exhausted and sore the next day.
You can play with friends you know, or you can make friends with other participants joining in, especially since the Airsoft Cebu community continues to grow every year.
For many, just being in a positive environment is enough for them to get in the mood. This is why many consider airsoft therapeutic because of its benefits for both physical and mental health.
It’s a great escape for when you’re feeling a bit tired or particularly emotional. If you’re angry about something, you can even use that as fuel for when you compete with others.
Sportsmanship is always an important factor when playing any game or sport, as it also reinforces respect towards fellow competitors and to be gracious in the face of defeat.
AIRSOFT CEBU ENTHUSIASTS
Although airsoft may not be on everyone’s radar when it comes to exciting Cebu activities, as mentioned, it has its own growing community where everyone supports and encourages one another to have fun.
With that in mind, here’s what fellow Airsoft Cebu enthusiasts have to say about the activity.
During the day it can get really hot, so make sure you’re physically fit to withstand the extreme heat and exhaustion once you participate.
Stay hydrated and always bring your own water bottle.
You can join airsoft groups that organize the games or events, as they also provide gear, equipment, and training venues.
If you want to try it out, you can visit places like WK Blasters in Talamban and witness how the game is run.
If you want to get your own gear, you can visit stores selling survival merchandise like helmets, vests, and different gun models. One popular spot is Bodge Tactics, which is located along Katipunan Street in Barangay Labangon.
Airsoft Cebu welcomes anyone who is interested in this intense and exciting hobby. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure in Cebu or an excuse to make new friends, you may want to give this sport a try.
