The ankles are fastened to a strong, elastic cable during bungee jumping, enabling the jumper to land on their feet first. Bungee jumpers frequently throw themselves from high buildings like cranes, skyscrapers, and bridges. Moving things, however, has also been used to do this.
The string expands as the jumper freely descends from a height, and when the line bounces back, the momentum pulls the jumper upwards. Until the battery runs out, the elastic cord bounces up and down in a trampoline-like rhythm.
Most bungee businesses across the world are run by trained, skilled experts who employ the best, most dependable equipment. They also follow stringent safety guidelines. Bungee jumping is a risk-free activity with an excellent safety record, despite the fact that plunging from such heights might feel terrifying.
The sensation of experiencing weightlessness and falling into the air quickly while bungee jumping. But how risky is bungee jumping really?
An elastic cable that is secured to a fixed location above the ground and then fastened to the jumper’s ankles makes up a bungee jump. In order to give the jumper their energy back, this cable extends as they fall and then snaps back, sending them upward. They endure less stress when they fall on the ground thanks to the elastic nature of this cable.
Since there is no contact with water or sharp objects, bungee leaping is typically regarded as safe. Additionally, unlike in freefall parachuting, there aren’t any sharp things below that may hurt someone if they fell on them from a tremendous height.
Bungee Jumping Equipment
A braided shock cable, an elastic rope used in bungee jumping, is fastened to the jumper’s ankle. Due to its natural flexibility, natural rubber is utilized to make the bulk of bungee cables. Body and leg harnesses are attached to the line for bungee jumping (back-up for the ankle attachment, for safety purposes).
Rope & Harness
A factory-produced braided shock cord was the first elastic rope used in bungee jumping and is still utilized by many professional operators. This is made up of many latex strands protected by a hard shell. This results in a harder, more acute bounce. Other operators, as well as the majority of operators in the southern hemisphere, employ unbraided cords that leave the latex strands visible. These provide a softer, longer bounce but create the impression that the elastic is worn out and about to break. So don’t freak out”not! it’s
Even if employing just an ankle attachment has a certain elegance, mishaps where participants disconnected drove many commercial operators to add a full harness, if only as a backup for the ankle attachment. Instead of using parachute equipment, climbing equipment body harnesses are typically employed.
Since 1980, there have been millions of successful leaps despite the potential for risk involved in doing so. This is due to the fact that bungee operators strictly adhere to the rules and regulations governing jumps, such as verifying calculations and fittings before each jump. As with every sport, there have been fatalities as well as injuries. Using a cable that is too lengthy is a rather typical error in mortality situations. To give it room to extend, the cable should be somewhat shorter than the height of the leaping platform.
Potential Injuries
Several different types of injuries can occur when you jump. If the safety harness malfunctions, the cord’s elasticity is estimated incorrectly, or the cord is improperly attached to the jump platform, you might sustain an injury. This is typically the consequence of human mistake, namely improper harness setup.
If the jumper becomes entangled in the cord with his or her own body, it might result in a serious injury. Eye damage, rope burn, uterine prolapse, dislocations, bruises, pinched fingers, and back injuries are among the other wounds. Because they are too light for the elastic and would produce a violent snap at the end of the stretch, those under 40 kg are not permitted to bungee jump with The Big Air Company. At that point, retinal displacement can occur.
However, the threat of harm isn’t a very effective deterrent. People usually return for additional bungee jumps, and more, and more, because the adrenaline rush is so strong.
Health Risks
Given that bungee jumping is a new activity, it is challenging to say whether there are long-term health hazards. Doctors who have researched bungee jumpers have found that the hazards are minor in the short term.
In the moments following their leap, dizziness is the most frequent complaint among jumpers. Usually, this irritation passes before the day is done. A tiny minority of participants report having back or ankle musculoskeletal discomfort a few days following their jump, although this pain normally goes away quickly.
A short loss of vision considered to be brought on by the movement of fluids in the eyes is another possible concern, albeit it happens seldom.
Bungee Vs. Parachute
Overall, bungee jumping is thought to be safer than activities like parachuting provided the right gear is utilized correctly and cautiously. The individual strikes the ground when parachuting and is subjected to harmful impact pressures, which is why.
However, the elastic cable that bungee jumpers use to bind themselves eventually absorbs the effects of gravity on the jumper. In actuality, equipment failure was at blame in the rare instances where jumpers had serious or fatal injuries.
However, it’s a good idea to see your doctor before contemplating bungee for yourself. The sport is not recommended for those who have seizures, hypertension, or a variety of other medical conditions.
The following medical problems are not appropriate for bungee jumping due to its severe nature:
1. Back or Neck injuries
2. Recent Fracture
3. Any Dislocation
4. High Blood Pressure
5. Asthma
6. Neurological Disorders
7. Epilepsy
8. Heart Conditions
9. Pregnancy
10. Osteoporosis
11. Age Limit : 12 to 45 yrs
12. Weight Limit : 40 to 110 kgs
Things To Keep In Mind Before Bungee Jumping
While there are other daring activities that will make you feel unmoored, bungee jumping is one of the safest since you are supported by straps and harnesses. Here are some pointers to keep in mind and things to get ready for if this is your first time bungee jumping!
Don’t Go With a Heavy Stomach
It is strongly advised not to eat just before bungee jumping, and especially not to have a big meal before it, as clearly, you don’t want to be vomiting up mid-air. Taking the leap will have an influence on your body because you will drop head down and will bounce around for a little at the end.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
When you’re flying in the air, you don’t want any cloth to be flapping around. Wear loose, comfy clothing instead, such T-shirts, shorts, cargos, etc., so that it doesn’t fly up. Make sure your shoes are securely fastened as well if you don’t want them to fly off. Definitely avoid wearing any valuables!
Trust The Instructor
It should go without saying, but if you don’t have faith”faith in your instructor, that is”you will never be able to take the jump! Learn about bungee jumping and its procedure first, and then pay attention to your instructor”s/he is a qualified expert and understands what is best for you.
Don’t Look Down
Standing near the brink may make even the strongest of hearts uneasy. The best option would be to avoid gazing down into the enormous chasm. When the pressure drops, keep your anxiety in check by gazing straight ahead or closing your eyes.
Smile and Don’t Stress!
There is no turning back if you are on the brink, both physically and figuratively speaking. You’ve done well to get to this point; all that’s left to do is leap, so don’t overthink or worry about it. And don’t forget to smile”your valiant deed will be recorded on camera, and you want it to be remembered.
Last Words – How Safe is Bungee Jumping?
Bungee jumping, like any extreme sport, involves some risk. Bungee jumping, on the other hand, can be a safe activity if proper safety precautions are taken and high-quality equipment is used.
Before partaking in a bungee jump, make certain that the company providing the service has a strong safety record and adheres to all relevant safety measures. These could involve using certified equipment, conducting frequent safety checks, and having qualified individuals on hand to assist with the jump.
It is also essential that you be both physically and mentally prepared for a bungee jump. Some medical conditions, such as heart disease or high blood pressure, may restrict people from participating in bungee jumping. Also, it is important to follow to all safety recommendations given by the bungee jump operator, including good form and technique throughout the jump.
Nevertheless, while bungee jumping is risky, it can also be an exhilarating and safe experience if precautions are taken.
