Bungee jumping is one of the world’s most popular extreme sports. It involves launching head-first from tall structures, such as bridges, skyscrapers or cranes, and an elastic cord being tied to your feet or body, which allows you to jump back up again. The free fall will usually last for a few seconds. This activity is considered to be a thrill ride and requires the participants to have good physical condition. The participants can also use a bungee harness, which will protect them during the jump.
The bungee cord is made of natural rubber, which has great elasticity. This type of rubber is also used in erasers. It was once called Indian bungie because it was originally made from India rubber, but it is now manufactured from synthetic rubber. A leg and torso harness, which are attached to the bungee cord, help to secure the jumper. This is a safety feature, and the bungee operators will have different minimum criteria depending on the height of the jump.
A bungee jump can take place in many different locations around the world. Some of the most popular bungee jumping spots are in New Zealand. The sport was patented by New Zealander A.J. Hackett in 1986, and he is widely credited with popularizing it worldwide. He first jumped from Auckland’s Greenhithe Bridge, and later he tried jumping from other large buildings and bridges.
Bungee jumping can be dangerous, so it is important to know the risks before you attempt it. The bungee cord can snap, and this can lead to severe injuries. It can also cause neck injuries, including whiplash and a spinal cord injury. If your torso gets caught in the cord, it can cause a carotid artery dissection, which can be fatal. You can also suffer a retinal hemorrhage, which can lead to permanent blindness.
Aside from these risks, bungee jumping can be extremely dangerous for people with certain health conditions. If you have a heart condition, epilepsy or high blood pressure, you should avoid the activity. Also, if you have a neurological disorder or are pregnant, you should not jump.
There are a number of ways to enjoy bungee jumping, from a simple rope jump to a full blown adrenaline rush. Regardless of your choice, you should always consult with the bungee experts and get trained before you do your first jump. This will help you minimize the risk of injury and have a more enjoyable experience.
If you are an adrenaline junkie, bungee jumping is the perfect way to satisfy your craving for excitement. However, be sure to follow the rules of bungee jumping, such as not littering and leaving your immediate surroundings just as you found them. If you are not careful, you could damage the surrounding environment and create a risk for others who wish to do the same thing in the future. It is also important not to boast about your bungee jump, as this can be dangerous for other people.