Unusual hobbies can be useful because they make the interests section memorable and give interviewers an easy human conversation starter. They work best when they are real and specific.

Generic interests such as travel, music, or fitness say very little. Competitive baking, ultramarathons, restoring motorcycles, or a specific type of photography reveal more personality without needing to sound professional.

The section should still be brief. One line with two or three genuine interests is enough; you do not need to justify why each hobby builds consulting skills.

Keep interests you would be comfortable discussing for two minutes. If the hobby is distinctive and authentic, that is usually a better choice than replacing it with a safer but generic activity. Keep the answer anchored in the actual decision rather than trying to satisfy an imagined recruiter rule.

Specific hobbies are way more memorable than writing "travel and fitness."