The first extreme sports started to appear a few decades ago. They are defined by an element of risk that is involved that is not present in other types of sports. Many people who participate in extreme sports crave the adrenaline rush and unique experiences that can result from taking a risk. The fact does remain, however, that the risk involved in some extreme sports needs to be taken very seriously because of the injuries that could occur. There are several extreme sports that have become slightly more popular than some others.
Building, antenna, span or earth (BASE) Jumping
BASE jumping is one of the more visible extreme sports because of the publicity that some jumpers receive. The concept of a BASE jump is to climb to the top of a tall manmade structure or a natural formation. The jumper then leaps forward and falls towards the ground. The excitement comes from the completely unassisted freedom that results from a long fall. BASE jumpers wear parachutes that can be deployed while in the air. The parachute is deployed as late as possible.
Cliff Diving
Cliff diving requires focus, training and courage to perform. This extreme sport starts with a diver climbing to the top of a sheer cliff that is overlooking deep water. This can be hundreds of feet in the air. The diver then pushes off of the cliff and plummets towards the surface of the water. If all goes well, then the diver is in the air for a good amount of time before hitting the water. This requires training in order to avoid dangers like hitting the walls of the cliff, or hitting the water in a bad position that can cause serious injuries. The thrill comes from leaping with no additional equipment directly into the water from as high of a point as possible.
Horseback Riding
Horse riding is statistically the most dangerous sport. Injuries can be very serious to both the rider and the horse. Horse riding relies on a connection between the horse and the rider that can make moving in tandem an exhilarating experience. This same bond can sometimes be broken by riders who are not experienced, or who panic while performing difficult maneuvers. Basic horseback riding is just one of the extreme sports that exists that involves horses. Other examples include horse boarding, horse pulling and thoroughbred racing.
Rock Climbing
Extreme rock climbing or free soloing involves a climber scaling a sheer rock surface with only minimal gear available. Free soloing implies that the climber will use no gear whatsoever. Climbers participate in this extreme sport because of the challenge that is presented. A climber can ascend hundreds of feet up the side of a rock formation using nothing but strength, experience and skill. Another aspect that is rewarding is the view that can be seen once the top of a tall formation has been reached.
Parkour
Parkour can be an incredibly intense physical and mental experience for a runner. The object of this extreme sport is to move as efficiently as possible through the common obstacles that are present in an urban environment. This can involve leaping over objects, jumping over open spans and climbing up the sides of buildings. This is all done as quickly as can be managed. Someone who is performing parkour might appear to be moving in superhuman ways to an untrained observer. The sport takes training, discipline and mental acuity. Failed maneuvers can end in serious injuries. Practitioners of parkour often find enjoyment in navigating particularly unique or difficult environments with nothing more than strength and agility.
