Extreme sports aren’t for the faint hearted. However dangerous they may be though, there are still health and safety laws which must be adhered to. Whether it’s the Le Mans 24-hour race or Red Bull’s Volcano boarding, extreme sports still come with a list of laws to follow. Here, alongside Renault Megane dealers, Lookers, we look at some of the most dangerous sports and the rules in place to ensure the safety of participants.
Le Mans 24-hour race
Known as the Grand Prix of endurance and efficiency, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, running since 1923, is held annually and is the world’s oldest active car race. However, it is also a very dangerous race, with 22 drivers having lost their lives over the years while competing. While battling a tough course, drivers must also battle fatigue. To make it slightly safer, each team has three drivers who each steer for a total of eight hours across stints of up to two hours. However, sleep is still limited, meaning it’s often tough to stay focused.
Volcano boarding
For this one, Red Bull have headed to Nicaragua. Riders must hike to the summit of the volcano, with Cerro Negro very popular. Then, they simply slide down – sitting or sliding – on ply wood with a thing metal board underneath. Hitting speeds of 30mph adds another reason to why this sport simply isn’t for the fainthearted. There’s a rope attached to your board for stability, while riders are given a one-piece suit for protection if they crash. Protective goggles and leather gloves are also provided.
Air Kicking
Another sport brought to you by Red Bull. Air-kicking was invented by German stuntman Jochen Schwiezer. It involves participants being catapulted into the air, flying more then 25ft before landing in a pool of water or a foam pit – safety at its finest! This is not one to take part in if you have any joint injuries.
Xpogo
We all had a pogo stick as a child, right? Well, imagine that activity but hyper charged! Extreme pogo involves competitors showing off new skills and tricks as you’d expect on a BMX. Jumpers can reach heights of nine feet, making this sport extremely dangerous. To try to limit injury, those who partake are required to wear a safety helmet. If you’re looking to join a stunt team, you’ll also be required to undergo a medical and be signed off as being fit and healthy.
Creeking
When we head on holiday, we sometimes like to go kayaking. Creeking, on the other hand, is whitewater kayaking to the limit. In the 1980s, with the introduction of more durable kayaks, daredevils thought they’d attempt to take the plunge off high waterfalls. The adrenaline rush is increased due to the fact you don’t know if you’re going to hit off a jagged rock or be sucked beneath the water. To try to limit any potential injury, it’s vital you wear safety equipment, including life jackets and a helmet.
All extreme sports
No matter what extreme sport you take part in, it’s crucial that you warm up sufficiently. Any cold muscles are more susceptible to injury, so be sure to do some light exercise for approximately five minutes before gently stretching any muscles that are to be exercised. It’s also essential that you don’t try to imitate stunts that you might have seen on television, as these people are professionals! And, whatever you do, do not participate in an extreme sport alone. You should always have a partner who can assist you in the event you are injured.
Do you think you’re going to add an extra bit of excitement into your life? Always be wary of any extreme sports and take care to avoid injury wherever possible.
