It’s common for people to be nervous when they first learn to drive. What are you now looking for in an activity – something that is challenging and exciting, or that will make you scream or give you an adrenaline rush? If so, you should look into these eight extreme hobbies.
Each one has its own unique qualities, but they all share a level of difficulty that will challenge your mind and body to the fullest extent. Let’s take a look at what each of them has to offer right now.
1. Airsoft Pistols
They are air guns that shoot small, plastic pellets (similar to paintballing). They are often used for airsoft games or sports where live ammunition is not permitted. The bullets are of low risk but high accuracy, and are more environmentally friendly than normal bullets.
The sport requires safety precautions such as goggles to be worn at all times when on the field. This is due to the possibility of eye injury through the projectiles being expelled at a high velocity.
There’s plenty of information on the internet if you want to learn more. If you’re looking for a full auto airsoft pistol you can compare photos and prices, and learn about the three basic types of ball-loaded pistols. You can additionally choose versions for beginners and buy replicas of popular Beretta, Glock, or Colt pistols.
2. Skydiving
Imagine being able to skydive at a location that’s usually 13,000 feet in altitude. This sport can take you up to 18 miles above the earth’s surface where there are zero traces of pollution. Skydivers are known to jump across all kinds of terrains including deserts, beaches, and even urban areas. They will jump from the plane and free fall for about 120 seconds before deploying their parachute.
Skydivers use an aircraft that is specifically designed with safety features such as dual parachutes. When you jump out of the plane, you can experience up to 180 miles per hour of wind resistance.
3. Bungee Jumping
It’s a terrifying thing to do, but it also helps you face your fears and push yourself out of your comfort zone. You could be jumping off the tallest bridge in Europe or leaping from an airplane at 12,000 feet. Leap into the air without any restraints as far down as possible before pulling the cord that will bring you back up again.
If done correctly, this can be done without injury, and in fact, no bungee jump fatalities have been reported since their invention in 1980 by A J Hackett. There are famous places to go including the Kawarau bungee site in New Zealand.
4. Hot Air Ballooning
The hot air balloonist rides on top of a large number of heated air particles, being able to view landscapes from different angles and altitudes. The balloons are filled with hot gas that is lighter than the surrounding atmospheric gases. They can often carry up to 20 passengers at once and the flight time can be as long as six hours or more depending on the wind conditions.
Once you’re up in the air, the hot air balloonist controls the direction of flight by moving a pair of ropes or cables that are attached to opposite points on the inflated envelope.
5. White Water Rafting
This extreme activity is full of white-knuckle thrills, but it also has its share of calm moments as well. Diving into white water isn’t something that should be taken lightly though – if you’re not experienced it can cause injury or death! Start small by attending an introductory course so you’ll know what to expect before venturing out on your own on future trips.
Some popular places to go are the Colorado River in California, the Zambezi River in Africa, or the Ottawa river. Some locations allow families to white water raft together, so it’s a great way to spend time with the kids.
6. Rock Climbing
You can rock climb in many different areas both indoors and outdoors, and the natural rock formations can be fascinating. It’s an extreme hobby because it can be dangerous. You need to have a solid mindset that includes commitment and dedication and a willingness for extreme physical exertion. Rock climbers are very protective of their hands because they depend on them constantly.
To become a rock climber you should first learn from experienced people and slowly build up your endurance before attempting anything too challenging. In terms of safety equipment, you’ll need special shoes, chalk, a harness, and a helmet.
7. Scuba Diving
This allows people to explore the depths of the ocean and observe creatures that they might never otherwise see. Whilst scuba diving is often done in shallow water, it can also be done very deep underwater (sometimes up to 200 feet down). Scuba divers have their own air supply which makes it possible for them to stay down longer than free divers or snorkelers.
There are many things that you can do while scuba diving including checking out coral reefs and fish populations, taking photos, looking at sunken ships, and more. Most people take courses beforehand to ensure their activities are conducted as safely as possible.
8. Surfing
It’s a challenging hobby, but it can be very rewarding for those who are willing to take up the challenge. You will need an old-school wooden board as well as a surfboard leash that attaches your surfing gear to you. This is so it won’t be lost if you fall off of your board.
With training and practice, you’ll be able to ride the waves expertly, surfing for hours. The ultimate surfing challenge is going on the open ocean where there are no breaks or sandbars, and giant swells can come from anywhere at any time.
No doubt there are several recommendations that you’ll wish to consider. They are all famous activities, and their continued popularity can reassure you that they are worth trying. Perhaps it’s time to bite the bullet and get some training. Why not buy the equipment and book your first session now? It could be a life-changing experience that you’ll long to repeat.