Scouting is all about adventure, skill-building, and personal growth. With the launch of the Multisport Merit Badge, Scouts now have a new way to push their limits, challenge themselves, and develop lifelong healthy habits.

This badge is a great opportunity for youth to discover new sports, improve fitness, and explore multisport activities like triathlons, duathlons, and aquabikes. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just getting started, the Multisport Merit Badge is your chance to take on a new challenge and level up your skills.

So, what exactly does it take to earn this badge? Let’s break it down!

The Multisport Merit Badge is designed to encourage Scouts to participate in endurance-based fitness activities that combine two or more sports. It’s a great way to build strength, endurance, and teamwork while learning about healthy lifestyle choices.

Unlike single-sport badges like Swimming or Cycling, this badge introduces Scouts to multisport disciplines that test their ability to transition between activities and develop well-rounded athletic skills.

Some of the multisport formats Scouts can explore include:

• Triathlon: Swimming, biking, and running
• Duathlon: Running and biking
• Aquathlon: Swimming and running
• Aquabike: Swimming and biking

By participating in these sports, Scouts improve their endurance, coordination, and resilience while working toward an achievement that recognizes their commitment to staying active.

Earning the Multisport Merit Badge is about more than just competition—it’s about personal growth and healthy habits that can last a lifetime. Here are just a few reasons why Scouts should take on this challenge:

• Build Confidence Through Physical Challenges - Trying a new sport (or two) can be intimidating, but pushing past those initial hurdles builds confidence. Whether learning to pace yourself in a race or training for endurance, this badge encourages Scouts to set goals, track progress, and see improvements over time.
• Develop a Healthy, Active Lifestyle - The Multisport Merit Badge isn’t just about earning an award—it’s about creating habits that promote a healthy lifestyle. By incorporating activities like swimming, biking, and running into their routine, Scouts can stay active in a fun and engaging way.
• Learn About Sportsmanship and Teamwork - While some multisport events are individual challenges, many encourage teamwork and camaraderie. Scouts will learn about sportsmanship, goal-setting, and perseverance—valuable skills that go beyond athletics.
• Get a Taste of Different Sports - This badge is perfect for Scouts who aren’t sure which sport they enjoy most. By trying multiple activities, they get a sense of what excites them—whether it’s the endurance of a triathlon, the power of cycling, or the speed of running.
• Take the Next Step in Scouting Adventures - This is a natural next step for Scouts who have earned Swimming, Cycling, Athletics, or Personal Fitness merit badge. The Multisport Merit Badge builds on those skills and opens new pathways for future fitness challenges.

Scouts will need to participate in two sports for at least one season while following a structured plan to track progress and improve their skills. Here’s what the process looks like:

1. Choose Two Sports: Scouts must pick two endurance-based sports to focus on. These can be swimming, biking, running, or a combination of two.
2. Get a Physical: A healthcare professional must complete a Scout medical examination form to ensure Scouts are ready for the physical demands of the activities.
3. Create a Training Plan: With the help of a merit badge counselor, Scouts will develop a training program for each sport that outlines their goals, practice schedule, and progress tracking.
4. Track Your Progress: Scouts will document their training, practice sessions, and improvement over time. This helps them stay accountable and see how they’re developing their skills.
5. Participate for a Full Season: Scouts must commit to each sport for at least one season, whether competing individually or on a team.
6. Reflect on the Experience: After completing the season, Scouts will discuss what they learned, how the sports challenged them, and how the experience affected them physically and mentally.
7. Submit Your Blue Card: Once all requirements are completed, Scouts will submit their blue card to their unit leader to record their achievement in ScoutBook.

The Multisport Merit Badge is all about endurance, discipline, and pushing personal limits. But like any big challenge, it’s easier when you have support. That’s where you come in. As a parent, you play a huge role in keeping your Scout motivated, organized, and confident as they work toward earning this badge. Here are a few simple ways to help them succeed.

1. Keep Them on Track with Regular Practice

Training consistently is key, but sticking to a schedule can be challenging—especially with school, Scouting, and other activities in the mix. Help your Scout set a realistic training plan and gently remind them to follow it. Steady progress makes a big difference, whether it’s a weekend bike ride, a quick swim after school, or a morning run.

2. Make It a Family Activity

Everything’s more fun with a training buddy! If possible, join your Scout for a jog, hop on your bike, or swim a few laps together. It’s a great way to bond while keeping them motivated. Plus, leading by example reinforces the importance of staying active.

3. Celebrate Progress—Not Just the Finish Line

Big goals can feel overwhelming, so celebrate the small wins. Did they improve their mile time? Finish a challenging workout? Stay committed to their schedule for a full week. Recognizing these milestones—whether with words of encouragement or a post-practice treat—helps keep them motivated.

4. Make Sure They Have the Right Gear

Having the proper equipment makes training safer and more effective. Ensure their running shoes fit well, their bike is in good condition, and they have the gear they need for swimming. And don’t forget the Multisport Merit Badge Pamphlet—this official guide walks Scouts through training techniques, goal-setting, and badge requirements so they know exactly what to do to succeed.

5. Help Them Manage Their Time

Finding time to train can be tricky between homework, scouting, and other activities. Help your Scout balance everything by setting up a simple schedule or prioritizing tasks. Even a quick weekend planning session can help them stay on track without feeling overwhelmed.

Your Support Can Make a Difference! Earning the Multisport Merit Badge isn’t just about completing a challenge—it’s about building resilience, discipline, and confidence. With your support, your Scout will gain skills far beyond the badge.

The Multisport Merit Badge is an exciting new opportunity for Scouts to push their limits, develop athletic skills, and build confidence through endurance-based sports. Whether they’re training for a triathlon, biking for speed, or running for endurance, this badge is the perfect way to take on a new challenge and stay active.

With the official Multisport Merit Badge Pamphlet and Badge now available at Scout Shop, everything Scouts need to start their journey is within reach.

Are you ready to take on the challenge? Gear up and start earning the Multisport Merit Badge today!