Thrills, spills, and Danger: The wild world of Extreme Sports

Extreme sports are quite literally what they say on the tin. It’s a sport, that’s extreme. Sitting as a sub-category of sport that is so far removed from the ordinary or average due to its risk and/or speed, it’s something that very few choose to do.

Often called ‘action sports’ they vary in all levels of danger. From bungee jumping and snowboarding to BMX biking and skateboarding – there are only a few that’ll face the dangers of these thrilling adventures.

Those that choose these actions sports that were could be faced with a broken bone, or a slipped disc, but those that opt for some of the worse ones, will face fatalities such as death or paralysis. There is always a big range of activities, with all parts of the world included, whether that’s on the sea, under it, on the land, or in the sky; these have all contributed to some of the weirdest injuries in sports history. – but that’s a story for another time.

We’re diving (quite literally) into the wild and wonderful world of extreme sports and finding which one will take the crown as the most dangerous in sports history.

Base Jumping

Undoubtedly, Base Jumping comes in as the world’s most dangerous sport. Statistics prove that there are more chances of you dying whilst base jumping, as opposed to any other activity across the globe. But, how bad could it really be? In our words – Very! Along with being rated the worst sport to partake in according to Runners Athletics, it’s also highly illegal, and your odds of dying are 1 in 60. The worst bit? Skydiving is considered the ‘safer’ version of this fearful sport.

Occurring at a lower altitude than skydiving, and from a stagnant, unmoving object, the parachuter then uses just one parachute, as opposed to skydiving where you’re far higher in the sky, and will always have backups. Overall, it’s severely dangerous, and that 1 in 60 statistics will only get worse.

Skateboarding

Skateboarding, though it seems like a safe option that children do from noticeably young ages, it contributes to 50% of extreme sports injuries globally. You are far less likely to have any fatalities compared to Base Jumping, however, it is still one that is not to be messed with. As innocent as it may sound, that 4-wheeled balancing act can even go on to cause fractures, breaks, and even traumatic brain injuries. So, remember to always wear your helmet with this extreme sport, as you may not have considered it extreme until today – but it could change your whole life.

Cycling

On a lighter note, let’s move swiftly on to the trusty bike – yes, you heard that correctly, a bicycle. Famed for its easy transport use across cities, and one of the easiest and most common sports to learn when young, but it sadly has some deadly secrets. According to Gitnux, approximately 500,000 American citizens suffer from traumatic brain injuries due to cycling recreationally; and the statistic for mountain or BMX riding is far worse. Competitions and BMX-ing are ever popular in the world, but road cycling is dangerous due to general traffic, and other people’s negligence. You are 17 times more likely to be killed on a bike than in a car, which is exactly why Forbes has pulled out the ‘Helmets To Help You Ride With Confidence’ rundown for the next time you’re pedaling to work. Remember, although it’s not a skydive, it’s still an extreme sport, and puts you at risk of danger. Ride responsibly.

Cliff Diving

Finally, is Cliff Diving. Yes, it looks great for the photos, but are the deadly waters you’re about to fly head-first into that safe? We, along with a plethora of individuals would vote no. Even if the sky-blue sea hitting the rocks below you are glimmering in the sun, it can still cause catastrophic damage, to even the most experienced divers. Even if you choose the “safe” route, that feet-first dives even into the deepest of waters can be classed as an extreme sport. The speed you create, as you dive off the top of the cliff, will be enough to cause spinal compression, broken bones, collapsed lungs, and sadly, much, much more. The next time you’re heading to Santorini with your friends and want the perfect hand-held jumping shot – remember, it will always be an extreme sport.

On land, sea, or sky, these sports create catastrophes for individuals across the world. No matter if you keep your nutrition and health in check, learning the risks prior to beginning any of these activities will only help, but never prevent accidents from happening. Our list can go on, and it’s important that you do your research, and always be safe with any activity you partake in.