Extreme sport is a term used for action or adventure sport or activities where there is a perceived or real element of danger. There is usually an element of speed, height or something similar that gets the adrenaline of the individual performing the sport pumping. Many extreme sports cannot be done be amateurs without experience and training.
Often, activities can be done by beginners as long as they are accompanied by professionals on the ride. It is possible to train to become a professional at many of the available extreme sports in the country and often there are even certificates or qualifications that can be achieved by enthusiasts. You can become a trainer or work in a business that offers these extreme experiences to others.
Different extreme sports for adrenaline junkies in South Africa
There are many, many different types of extreme sports that are available throughout the country. Some depend on the weather, while others depend on the experience level of the individual performing the activity, but most rely on the courage and nerve of the individual. The following include some of the extreme activities that are available to anyone who wants to give them a try. Some are less extreme than others, but all are considered adrenaline raising sports.
- Zip Lining
Zip lining involves harnessing yourself to a line attached from one high point to another. The swing from one high point to another is usually quite fast and as it is high up it is a truly extreme experience.
- White water rafting
White water rafting is a sport where individuals ride a raft or rubber boat along a rapidly flowing river through white water.
- Shark Cage Diving
Shark cage diving involves an individual strapping on an oxygen tank and being submerged under water inside a cage. Sharks are usually attracted to the cage by chumming and swim right up close to the individuals inside the cage.
- Hot Air Ballooning
Hot air ballooning is where individuals ride a hot air balloon high up in the sky over quite a distance.
- Tandem Paragliding
Tandem paragliding is where an individual will be harnessed to a parachute like object and to a trained professional. They then run off a hill or mountain and glide down to land at the bottom of the hill.
- Bungee Jumping
Bungee jumping involves strapping yourself to a harness which is attached to a strong rope. The rope is tied to a bridge or high object. The individual then jumps off the bridge and free falls until the rope jerks them up and they hang from the end of it.
- Sand Boarding
Sand boarding involves strapping your legs to a board and gliding down a sand dune.
- Zorb Balling
When an individual uses a zorb ball, they are strapped into a giant ball and roll down a hill or around the area. Zorb balling can also be done on a body of water.
- Abseiling
Abseiling is when an individual is harnessed to the top of a high wall or mountainous rocky area. They then let themselves down slowly by their rope and harness.
- Bridge Swinging
Bridge swings are giant swings across a valley where the individual is harnessed to a rope and attached to a bridge.
- Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is where individuals climb a rocky, usually quite sheer mountain face.
- Scuba Diving
Scuba diving involves attaching an oxygen tank to an individual and allowing them to explore the depths of the ocean.
- Paint Ball
Paint ball is a great sport for getting your adrenaline pumping. Individuals form teams and attempt to shoot each other with paint balls.