I binged the complete season of Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin on Disney+. I thought to myself, “WTF are these people thinking? Do they actually find this fun?” “What if they influence others to try something this idiotic?”
In my mid-30s, I realized the unsettling truth about adventure sports: they’re not about fun and never will be. Thus, we shouldn’t sell them to people the way we sell traditional sports.
The Edge of the Unknown series teaches us more about adventure sports than any brand we idolize. Sure, the gear looks cool and creates a sense of belonging among users, but it’s a small part of actually doing adventure sports. This stuff is crazy difficult, dangerous, and not realistic for most people.
In honor of the remarkable people represented in this documentary, let’s define adventure sports, provide realistic advice, and explain why you should consider your options the next time you think, “wow, I want to do that.”
What are Adventure Sports?
Adventure sports are an exciting way for people to escape the monotony of everyday life and immerse themselves in new and challenging experiences. They offer a rush of adrenaline and a chance to test one’s physical and mental abilities, all while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. From snowboarding down steep slopes to scaling towering rock faces, there’s no shortage of adventure sports to choose from.
What Makes Adventure Sports Unique?
- Risk: Adventure sports involve a higher level of risk and danger compared to traditional sports. For example, mountaineering involves climbing to great heights with minimal oxygen and the potential for serious injury or death if the climber falls.
- Location: Adventure sports often take place in more remote or extreme locations, such as the top of a mountain, the open ocean, or the wilderness.
- Equipment: Adventure sports often require specialized equipment, such as climbing gear, surfboards, or snowboards to perform the sport effectively.
- Competition: Adventure sports lack the structured competition format of traditional sports, such as teams and organized leagues. Instead, the focus is often on personal challenge and accomplishment, rather than beating others.
Why do People Engage in These Daredevil Activities?
For many, adventure sports are a way to connect with nature and push their personal limits. Mainly the latter. Because you can connect with nature without putting your life in jeopardy. They allow individuals to step out of their comfort zones and confront their fears head-on.
By taking part in adventure sports, people can feel a sense of accomplishment and personal growth, which can help boost their confidence and self-esteem. Additionally, adventure sports offer a sense of community and camaraderie, as people come together to share their experiences and support each other. The gnarlier the better.
However, despite the many benefits of adventure sports, they are some of the most dangerous activities on earth. Thus, why Edge of the Unknown with Jimmy Chin makes a great show.
These sports involve a high level of risk and physical exertion, which can result in serious injury or death. Rock climbers, for example, face the danger of falling from great heights, while whitewater rafters must navigate fast-moving, treacherous waters—and crocodiles! Even seemingly safe activities like snowboarding can lead to dangerous situations if the proper safety precautions are not taken.
OK. Riding a 60ft wave is an obvious death wish.
What if I’m New to Adventure Sports?
Most adventure sports can be watered down to action sports—and therefore fun. You can mountain bike without committing to an epic journey. Similarly, you can ski at a local resort and steer clear of avalanche snow. The trick is knowing what you want out of the activity. Don’t let peer pressure or aspirational films jolt you into an unrealistic existence.
It’s crucial for anyone considering an adventure sport to be fully aware of the risks involved and take the necessary safety measures to minimize the chance of injury. This may include seeking out proper training and equipment, partnering with experienced guides, and being mindful of weather conditions and other potential hazards.
Don’t pass over the “proper training” piece. Use Google, visit Backcountry or your local REI, and shadow experienced enthusiasts before following your inner stoke. Your future self will thank you.
Adventure sports can offer an exciting and rewarding outlet for people to push their limits and experience new challenges. And while most adventure sports can be dangerous, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience without too much effort. Whether you’re a seasoned adrenaline junkie or just looking to try something new, there’s no shortage of adventure sports to choose from, each offering its own unique thrill in between your day job.