Q&A: bungee jumping – how dangerous is it?

Extreme sports are the passion of many people. One of the most dangerous and attractive is bungee jumping. In Russia, it is often confused with the bungee jump familiar from childhood. In practice, however, there is nothing in common between these devices, except for the jump from a height downwards.

What is a bungee?

A bungee is a long rubber rope that can be stretched and compressed. With its help, the jumper falls freely from a height and hangs on the rope for a while. Such an attraction gives extreme sports fans the feeling of diving into the abyss and free planning in the air like a bird.

The natives started bungee jumping more than a hundred years ago. So they tested the courage of their tribesmen. This sport became popular among extreme sportsmen after the BBC movie “The Land Divers of Pentecost” was released in 1960.

The most beautiful places in the world for bungee jumping

Bungee jumping can help you overcome inner fears and liberate yourself. But the outside atmosphere plays a special role in this. Here is a selection of the most beautiful places in the world from where you can jump. Positive emotions and impressions for life are guaranteed!

• Macau Tower, China

The favorite place of all bungee jumpers. Macau Tower is included in the list of the world’s tallest buildings. Its height is 238 meters. Almost at the very top there is an observation deck and on it a bridge for jumping. This location attracts extreme athletes from all over the world!

• Bridge over Victoria Falls, Zambia

The height of this object is almost half the height of the Chinese landmark (152 meters). But the bridge conquers the beauty of the wildlife around it. Water plunges down into the gorge from the height, bubbling and making noise… Many jumpers lost control and thought they would not be able to complete the flight safely. But all was well. And jumping off Victoria Falls was another unforgettable experience!

• Navajo Bridge, Marble Canyon, USA

This place is recommended to visit in early fall. In September, the canyon plays with special colors, and the Colorado River is swift and fast. The height of the structure is small – 142 meters, but the local scenery is certainly worthy of your attention!

• Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge, USA

An absolute record holder! Its height is 321 meters, and the turbulent Colorado River runs below. Many extreme athletes have been preparing for a long time to jump from this bridge and overcame fear. But it is impossible to resist the beauty of the Grand Canyon and your own passion. Interesting fact: despite the monstrous height on the bridge has not had a single accident related to bungee jumping.

• Skypark, Sochi

Our country also supports the development of bungee jumping. On the Black Sea coast, the main summer vacation destination for Russians, there is Skypark, a real paradise for those who like to tickle their nerves. There are several jumping platforms in this place, the highest one is 207 meters. The beauty of the Akhshtry Gorge and the Mzymta River will conquer any jumper.

Answers to the most popular questions about bungee jumping

• What is the probability of crashing?

Of course, an unfavorable outcome can never be excluded. After all, jumping from a height is a huge risk. But, we assure you, if you jump with the help of an instructor and tested equipment, it comes to naught. The main thing in this dangerous business is not to fuss.

• How often does a bungee rope break?

Each rope should be replaced after every 400 jumps, which is only 30% of the rope’s total life. This rule has been in place since 1990 and is strictly enforced. You can draw your own conclusions.

• What is the duration of the flight?

It depends on the height of the place from which the jump is made. Usually about 4-7 seconds. Do not think that this is not enough! The sensations will be enough. Plus you should not forget about the preparation time for the jump. This process is also endowed with special emotions and constant doubts. Especially if you are a beginner.

• Is it possible to fly together with someone?

There are locations that practice pair jumps. True, there is one nuance: the total weight of two people should not exceed 124 kilograms.

• From what age is it possible to jump?

Officially: from the moment of majority, 18 years old. But jumping in the presence of parents or guardians is allowed from the age of 10.

Contraindications:

1. Hypertension and heart disease
2. epilepsy
3. pregnancy
4. weight restriction: people under 35kg and weighing more than 100kg are not allowed to jump!

By the way, even people with disabilities can realize their dream and jump from heights. Of course, after preliminary consultation with a doctor.

Bungee jumping is a sport that has conquered many people. The feeling of complete freedom, unity with nature and immensity here is off the scale. At the moment of jumping there is a reassessment of life values, and problems recede into the background.