In a world that constantly seeks excitement and new horizons, adventure sports have emerged as the ultimate playground for thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies. Whether you're soaring through the sky, conquering rugged terrains, or diving into the depths of the oceans, the realm of adventure sports offers an exhilarating escape from the ordinary. 


But, even if we want to embark on such an exhilarating journey, there are myths and misconceptions that hold us back. In this article, we have addressed certain myths related to bungee jumping, mountain hiking and sky diving.


Myths Around Bungee Jumping


Niharika Nigam, who is the Director, Business Development at Jumpin Height said, "In the realm of adrenaline-pumping experiences, few can match the heart-racing intensity of bungee jumping. Yet, for all its thrill-seeking glory, this extreme sport is often shrouded in a veil of misconceptions and urban legends. From concerns about safety to assumptions about who can partake, the world of bungee jumping has amassed a collection of myths that deserve to be debunked."


So, fasten your virtual seatbelt and let's leap headfirst into the world of bungee jumping, separating fact from fiction one myth at a time.


Myth 1: Bungee jumping can cause physical problems


Fact: Contrary to popular belief, carrying out a well-executed head-first leap from the platform leads to a remarkably smooth descent. The bungee cord chosen is specifically tailored to your weight, allowing for a gradual stretch as you approach the nadir of your plunge. This ensures a gentle and elegant deceleration, minimizing any abrupt jerks. Prior to your jump, the experienced crew will provide you with guidance on the optimal take-off technique, ensuring a seamless experience.


Myth 2: One needs to be very fit to undertake Bungy


Fact: You are deemed fit to jump unless you suffer from medical conditions such as back or neck injuries, recent fractures, high blood pressure, asthma, epilepsy, heart conditions, or osteoporosis. While better fitness always enhances any physical experience, bungee jumping does not demand above average stamina or athletic bodies. The age criteria in India is 12-45 years and weight limit is 40-110 kgs.


Myth 3: The bungee cord might snap.


Fact: Despite its seemingly simple appearance, the bungee cord boasts a complex and meticulously engineered design. Crafted from thousands of strands of durable latex rubber, each cord undergoes a rigorous battery of tests and approvals to ensure its safety and reliability. Rest assured, when you take the leap, you're relying on a cord that's been thoroughly vetted and proven to withstand the forces of the jump. The cords usually snap when its been overused, thereby violating safety standards by compromising on quality by way of wear and tear for the sake of quantity. Every bungy chord has a lifespan and the number of jumps it should be used for. Choosing a reputable operator is therefore of utmost importance, one with experience and expertise.


Myth 4: Bungee jumping is excessively dangerous.


Fact: Surprisingly, statistical data indicates that the risk of fatality associated with a bungee jump is comparable to that of being in a car traveling at 60 kilometers per hour. In the realm of commercial extreme sports, both bungee jumping and skydiving stand out as some of the safest activities. To put it into perspective, they are approximately six times safer than operating a car, let alone a motorcycle. This eye-opening comparison underscores the relative safety of these exhilarating experiences.


 



Bungee Jumping (Image Source: Getty)


Myths Around Moutain Hiking:


Saumitra Singh, who is the Managing Director at The Tigress Resort and Spa, Ranthambore said, "Mountain hiking activity is captivating and invigorates every outdoor lover to venture into some of the most majestic and beautiful landscapes on earth. Nevertheless, there are some myths about hiking in the mountains that can prevent people from feeling real pleasure from it."

 

Myth 1: Only elite athletes and the super-fit can go for it.

 

Actually, a trail exists for everyone by fitness level. Hikers can select paths to hike on in the mountains, varying from gentle slopes to rigorous summits to hike on in line with their abilities. Anyone willing to prepare well, and train gradually with an emphasis on safety can take to mountain hiking to experience the excitement of climbing these magnificent natural features.

 

Myth 2: Mountain hiking is an isolative undertaking.

 

However, this assumption is wrong, as it is possible to hike in the mountains with other people and have this as a sociable and rewarding activity. Hiking with friends, family or like-minded individuals brings an additional element of excitement to the journey itself by increasing the feelings of camaraderie and sharing the adventure. In addition to being safe in terms of numbers, a group hike facilitates the exchange of stories, learning from each other as well and creating a lifetime memory together. The mountains serve as a space where people bond together and build communities, thus dispelling the misconception that hiking is an individualistic pursuit.

 

 


Mountain Hiking (Image Source: Getty)


Myths Around Sky Diving:



Mihir Babaria who is the Director of Dnotours OPC Private Limited said, "Skydiving is an exciting adventure sport but often people have a lot of myths and misconceptions."

 

Myth 1: You Need to Be an Sports person or fitness freak

 

Skydiving isn't just for athletes. It is possible for individuals of all ages and fitness levels to enjoy tandem skydiving (Tandem = Pilot/Dual Sharing), where an instructor takes care of the freefall & diving while you are harnessed to the instructor. 

 

Myth 2: Skydiving is Extremely Dangerous

 

Just like any other adventure sports, Skydiving too involves an element of risk, some sort of modern equipments and strict training before you perform or participate which makes it remarkably safe.

 

Myth 3: You Can't Breathe While Skydiving

 

Some people believe that freefall is impossible because of the wind pressure. Skydiving actually allows you to breathe comfortably. You can breathe normally when wearing jumpsuits and helmets that regulate airflow.

 

 


Sky diving (Image Source: Getty)