Base jumping as a hobby is not for the faint of heart. It’s an extreme sport that involves jumping off high structures such as cliffs, bridges, and buildings while wearing a parachute.
Base jumping offers a unique adrenaline rush and a sense of freedom that few other hobbies can match. So if you’re a thrill-seeker looking for your next adventure, base jumping might just be the hobby for you.
| See Also: What Are Some Sports Hobbies? |
History of Base Jumping
Base jumping is a relatively new extreme sport that has gained popularity over the years. The history of base jumping dates back to the 1970s when Carl Boenish, a filmmaker and skydiver, started experimenting with jumping from fixed objects such as cliffs and buildings. He is considered the father of base jumping and is credited with popularizing the sport.
The term BASE is an acronym that stands for four categories of fixed objects from which one can jump: buildings, antennae, spans (bridges), and earth (cliffs). The sport involves jumping from these objects and using a parachute to descend safely to the ground.
In the early days of base jumping, there were no specific rules or regulations, and the sport was considered highly dangerous.
Participants had to rely on their own skills and experience to make successful jumps. However, as the sport gained popularity, safety measures were introduced, and rules and regulations were put in place to ensure the safety of participants.
One of the major risks associated with base jumping is malfunction. Malfunction occurs when the parachute fails to open, and the jumper falls to the ground. To reduce the risk of malfunction, base jumpers use specialized equipment such as vents and reserve parachutes.
Another risk associated with base jumping is the landing zone. The landing zone is the area where the jumper lands after the jump. It should be free from obstacles such as rocks and should have enough space for the jumper to land safely.
To reduce the risk of injury, base jumpers use tracking and free-fall techniques. Tracking involves changing the position of the body during the free-fall to control the direction of the jump. Free-fall is the period after the jump when the jumper is falling freely before opening the parachute.
Base Jumping as a Hobby
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-inducing hobby, base jumping might be the perfect fit for you.
Unlike skydiving, which typically takes place at higher altitudes, base jumping involves jumping from fixed objects like buildings, antennas, spans, and earth formations like cliffs or canyons.
Base jumping can be a fun and exciting way to get your heart pumping and make memories that will last a lifetime. It’s also a great way to get exercise as you’ll need to be in good physical shape to make successful jumps.
When it comes to safety, a helmet is a must-have accessory for any base jumper. It’s also important to have a reliable delivery system for your parachute, as well as a backup chute in case of any failures.
Base jumping is a hobby that’s open to anyone, including women. While it can be a dangerous sport, with the right training and equipment, it can also be a safe and enjoyable activity.
Here are some key points to keep in mind if you’re interested in taking up base jumping as a hobby:
- Always jump with a group and never alone.
- Make sure you have the proper training and equipment before attempting a jump.
- Stay hydrated and be aware of your surroundings, especially when jumping in unfamiliar locations.
- Don’t take unnecessary risks and always prioritize safety over excitement.
Overall, base jumping can be an incredibly thrilling and rewarding hobby for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to do it safely and responsibly.
Base Jumping Equipment and Safety Gear
When it comes to BASE jumping, having the right equipment is crucial for your safety. In fact, professional BASE jumpers invest in high-quality gear to minimize the risk of serious injury. Here is a breakdown of the essential equipment you will need:
Gear
Your gear should include a helmet, a jumpsuit, and a pair of BASE jumping shoes. The helmet is important to protect your head from any impact, while the jumpsuit is designed to reduce drag and increase your control during the jump. BASE jumping shoes are specifically designed to provide traction and grip on various surfaces.
Parachutes
BASE jumping parachutes come in two types: the main parachute and the reserve parachute. The main parachute is the one you use during the jump, while the reserve parachute is a backup in case the main one fails. It is important to have a well-designed and high-quality parachute that is appropriate for your skill level.
Harness
The harness is what connects you to the parachute and keeps you secure during the jump. It is important to choose a harness that fits you properly and is designed for BASE jumping.
In addition to having the right equipment, it is important to practice good safety techniques. This includes proper training, understanding the risks involved, and having a good understanding of the technique and control required for BASE jumping.
When it comes to technique and control, it is important to understand how to properly navigate the air and control your movements. This includes practicing proper body positioning and understanding how to use your arms and legs to control your speed and direction.
Overall, BASE jumping can be a thrilling and exciting hobby, but it is important to take safety seriously. By investing in high-quality equipment, practicing good safety techniques, and understanding the risks involved, you can enjoy the sport while minimizing the risk of serious injury.
| Equipment | Importance |
|---|---|
| Helmet | Protects head from impact |
| Jumpsuit | Reduces drag and increases control |
| BASE Jumping Shoes | Provides traction and grip |
| Main Parachute | Used during the jump |
| Reserve Parachute | Backup in case of failure |
| Harness | Connects you to the parachute and keeps you secure |
Locations for Base Jumping
When it comes to base jumping, location is everything. You need to find a place that offers the right combination of altitude, fixed objects, and glide to make your jump both safe and thrilling. Here are some of the most popular locations for base jumping around the world.
Bridges
Bridges are a popular base jumping location because they offer a fixed object that is high enough to provide the necessary altitude for a successful jump.
Some of the most popular bridges for base jumping include the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia, the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado, and the Perrine Bridge in Idaho. These bridges offer stunning views and thrilling jumps that are sure to get your heart racing.
Cliffs
Cliffs are another popular base jumping location, offering both altitude and stunning natural scenery.
Some of the most popular cliffs for base jumping include Troll Wall in Norway, which is the tallest vertical rock face in Europe, and Yosemite National Park in California, which offers stunning views of the park’s famous granite cliffs.
Antennae
Antennae are tall structures that are often used for communication purposes, and they can also be a great location for base jumping. These structures offer the necessary altitude for a successful jump, and they often provide a unique and thrilling experience.
Some popular antennae for base jumping include the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, and the Kuala Lumpur Tower in Malaysia.
Buildings
Buildings can also be a great location for base jumping, offering a unique urban experience that is sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
Some popular buildings for base jumping include the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, which is the tallest building in the world.
Towers
Towers are similar to buildings in that they offer a unique urban experience, but they are often taller and more challenging to jump from.
Some popular towers for base jumping include the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, and the Tokyo Skytree in Tokyo, Japan.
Mountains
Finally, mountains can also be a great location for base jumping, offering stunning natural scenery and the necessary altitude for a successful jump.
Some popular mountains for base jumping include the Himalayas in India, which offer some of the highest jumps in the world, and the Swiss Alps in Europe, which offer stunning views and challenging jumps.
When choosing a location for base jumping, it’s important to consider factors such as weather, obstacles, and the experience level of other jumpers in the area.
You should also make sure to follow all safety guidelines and regulations, and consider working with a skydiving instructor to ensure a safe and successful jump.
With the right location and preparation, base jumping can be an exhilarating and rewarding recreational activity that you’ll never forget.
Risks and Hazards
Base jumping is an extreme sport that involves jumping from fixed objects, such as cliffs, bridges, and buildings, with a parachute or wingsuit.
While it may be thrilling and exciting, it is also a very dangerous activity that poses many risks and hazards. In this section, we will discuss some of the physical risks, hazardous locations, injuries, and deaths associated with base jumping.
Physical Risks
Base jumping involves a free fall from a high altitude, which can result in severe injuries or death if something goes wrong.
The risks associated with base jumping include:
- Falling from a great height
- Colliding with objects during the jump
- Getting entangled in the parachute or wingsuit
- Reacting too late to an emergency situation
Hazardous Locations
Base jumping can be done from a variety of locations, but some are more hazardous than others.
For example, jumping from a bridge over a river can be dangerous due to the possibility of hitting the water or getting caught in the current. Similarly, jumping from a building can be hazardous due to the risk of colliding with the structure or landing on a busy street.
One of the most dangerous locations for base jumping is Mount Everest. The altitude and unpredictable weather conditions make it a very challenging and risky location for base jumping.
Injuries
Injuries are common in base jumping, and they can range from minor to severe. Some of the most common injuries associated with base jumping include:
- Broken bones
- Sprains and strains
- Head injuries
- Internal injuries
Deaths
Unfortunately, deaths are also common in base jumping. According to a study published in PubMed, the frequency of deaths associated with base jumping is high, and it poses a burden on the emergency system. As of February 2015, there have been 250 confirmed fatalities directly linked to base jumping.
Conclusion
In conclusion, base jumping is a thrilling and exciting hobby that can provide an adrenaline rush like no other. However, it is also important to recognize that it is an extremely dangerous activity that requires careful planning, preparation, and execution.
If you are considering taking up base jumping as a hobby, it is crucial that you do your research and seek out experienced instructors who can teach you the proper techniques and safety protocols. You should also invest in high-quality equipment and take the time to practice your skills in a safe and controlled environment before attempting any jumps.
While base jumping can be a rewarding and exhilarating experience, it is not for everyone. It requires a high level of physical fitness, mental toughness, and risk tolerance. It is important to be honest with yourself about your abilities and limitations before embarking on this hobby.
If you do decide to pursue base jumping, remember to always prioritize safety over excitement. Make sure to follow all safety guidelines and protocols, and never take unnecessary risks. With the right preparation and mindset, base jumping can be a thrilling and rewarding hobby that allows you to push your limits and experience the world in a whole new way.
Here are some useful links to help you learn more about base jumping as a hobby:
- 5 Reasons Why People Jump Off Cliffs for Fun
- Base Jumping Is Absurdly Dangerous – So Why Do It?
- Discover a Hobby: Learn About Base Jumping
- The Best Hobby: BASE Jumping
Remember, safety should always come first when it comes to base jumping. Happy jumping!