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The Sport Of Bungy Jumping

Editor — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 20:36:20 +0000

Three decades before bungy jumping began to come into the public eye as a new sport, the well-known broadcaster Sir David Attenborough encountered people on the Pentecost Island who demonstrated their courage by tying vines around their ankles and diving from tall platforms. Shortly after, Chris Baker of England devised an elastic rope for attempting a similar feat. In 1979, members of the Oxford England's Dangerous Sports Club jumped from the 250-foot Clifton Suspension Bridge, marking the first attempts at bungy jumping as it is known today. Bungy jumping was slowly but surely gaining the public's interest as a potential sport.

In 1986, A. J. Hackett of New Zealand did his own first jump. To promote widespread interest, he bungy jumped from numerous structures, including the Eiffel Tower in France, going on to start up one of the world's largest bungy jumping companies. The A. J. Hackett Bungy company has expanded to locations in Macau, Mexico, Indonesia, Germany, the United States, Australia, and France, in addition to his original New Zealand location.

Not only was A. J. Hackett successful in spreading the word about bungy jumping, in creating his company he began to make this new sport much more widely accessible to those who wished to try it. While the Macau location boasts the highest commercial bungy jumping in the world, all of the other branches provide a nearly-equal degree of excitement for all who elect to participate in this sport.

The basic bungy jumping equipment consists of latex strands which are made into shock cords. Some companies and customers prefer to use plain ankle attachments, but in the interest of the jumpers' safety body harnesses are often used also. Although sites vary in their means of retrieval, the most common method is with the use of a mobile crane which can quickly and accurately lower the jumper to the ground. The variations of retrieval methods generally depend on the types of jumping platforms that are used.

In addition to the basic form of bungy jumping, there are some variations to this sport. In a Decelerator Descent, the jumper is able to slow down to a safer and more comfortable landing speed; the Macau Tower site provides for this style of bungy jumping, and is the world's highest facility for this style.

The Catapult version is actually bungy jumping in reverse, as the jumper begins on the ground and, with the aid of a crane, shoots up into the air. The Twin Tower variation is similar, but the jumper uses two cords.

The two other most popular variations are quite different from the usual type of bungy jumping. In Bungy Running, the person races along a track to see how far he can go before he is pulled back by the bungy cord. On a much more tame scale than regular bungy jumping, the person wears bungy cords while using a trampoline, thus giving him the ability to jump much higher than with normal trampoline jumps.

The popularity of bungy jumping has been increasing. Whichever form of this sport you develop an interest in, you will be able to find exactly the one you're looking for.

Do You Wan Tto Lear Nbungy Jumping

Editor — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:03:20 +0000

Perhaps you have decided to take up the sport of bungy jumping, but would prefer some professional training before taking the plunge. Or perhaps you have thought a lot about bungy jumping, but still have not reached a conclusion as to whether you want to try it or not. If you find yourself in either of these categories, you can benefit from taking some bungy jumping classes which are designed to teach you everything you need to know and have a bit of hands-on experience under the guidance of skilled instructors. This way, you can have the confidence of knowing you have learned the basic skills needed for bungy jumping before you take your first death-defying challenge.

As there are already a number of classes in various locations for bungy jumping staff members, it shouldn't be long before suitable classes are also open to the general public to assist them in gaining the important knowledge and skills needed for this sport. You can decide if this is something you would like to consider as an option; if so, check to see when classes like this are available in your area.

Another possibility for learning all about the sport of bungy jumping is to begin as a spectator. While this may also help you decide whether or not you are personally suited for bungy jumping, you will have the chance to view this amazing activity as close as you can be without actually participating. With this goal in mind, you can watch either your friends doing their own novice bungy jumps, or you can see perfection in motion by viewing trained professionals. In addition to watching bungy jumping first-hand, you can also utilize a video camera so that you can focus on all the details of the jumps later on.

While you can probably gain the helpful cooperation from most of the companies that provide bungy jumping by simply requesting the chance to begin your initiation into this sport as a spectator, there are some of the companies which already present it as an option and consider spectators to be a basic part of their customers' bungy jumping experiences. One that lists this as a trip option in itself calls it the "Auckland Ultimate Bungy Jump Spectator" part of their Adventure Tour. Offered by New Zealand on the Web, it includes a guided bridge walk where you can watch the action from a safe point. Not only will this give you the chance to take in the excitement up-close, you will be able to learn the basics from those who are actually participating. Taking still-pictures or making a video of the action will allow you to view it at a later date when you can pay close attention to the details.

Whether you choose the method of "watch and learn" or seek training from skilled professionals, you will be at an advantage when you finally decide to take your first solo jump. The more you know beforehand, the more you will want to take part in bungy jumping.

Bungee Jumping Safety

Editor — Thu, 30 Sep 2010 02:35:20 +0000

Bungee jumping safety should be at the top of anyone's priority list if they plan to engage in the extreme sport of bungee jumping. It's not every day that someone jumps off of an object 100 or more feet in the air, attached only by a large rubber rope. There are many, many things that can go very, very wrong in bungee jumping. Bungee jumping safety is the art and practice of making the sport as safe as possible. This is especially true with commercial ventures that are open to the public. Such places may serve thousands of patrons every year. One fatality can be enough to put them out of business for good. They take bungee jumping safety very seriously … as well they should.

The first thing you should know about bungee jumping safety is that each organization or group that conducts bungee jumping is referred to as a 'club'. It is important that you find out if the club you are jumping with is certified through some safety governing body. In most countries, there is a government safety organization that regulates public safety standards in various environments. In the United States, for example, we have OSHA, the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, who oversees all workplace safety issues. In Great Britain, there is the Heath & Safety Executive (HSE), whose functions are very similar.

However, there is an organization devoted strictly to the safety of bungee jumpers everywhere. The organiztion is known as BERSA, the British Elastic Rope Sports Association. BERSA has put together a code of practice in conjunction with the HSE, as a standard for safe operations when conducting bungee jumps. While member clubs and companies sign up voluntarily to follow the guidelines, there is no legal requirement for those who decide not to.

Another aspect of bungee jumping safety is the actual equipment used in bungee jumping. While there is a variety of methods and equipment that can be used, regular inspection is important. It is highly recommended that each and every piece of equipment be triple checked after every single jump. After all, if one piece of equipment fails, it can cost someone their life. Most commercial operators do just that. Attachments at the platform are checked. The bungee cord itself is checked for any damage. Each jump is logged, as each type of cord has a known life expectancy. The weight of each jumper is checked, and usually written on one hand of the jumper, so it can be double-checked as well. Every detail and element of physics must be correct before a person jumps off of the platform. Once you jump, there's no coming back – there can be no mistakes.

There are a number of injuries that can be sustained during a bungee jump. From minor bruising, to broken bones, to death, all of them can be prevented with proper bungee jumping safety. As in any extreme sport or occupation where there is no second chance, safety should always be the number one priority. Bungee jumping is no different.

Bungee Jumping Clubs

Editor — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 09:03:20 +0000

So you want to go bungee jumping, and you are trying to figure out where to get started. Or, perhaps you are a seasoned jump veteran, and you are looking for others to start a jumping group together. Either way, you are really looking for the same thing: a bungee club. Bungee jumping clubs have come into existence over the last few decades as a result of the prominence and massive expansion of the bungee jumping industry.

A group called the Dangerous Sports Club could be considered to be the first bungee jumping club. This group, from Oxford and London, were active in a variety of extreme sports adventures from the late 1970s through the 1980s. The club is credited with the invention of the modern bungee jumping craze. Their first jump took place on April 1st, 1979. The club was very active during their heyday in the early 1980s. Easily the most famous member of the Dangerous Sports Club was Graham Chapman, of Monty Python fame.

Since that time, bungee jumping clubs have grown in popularity as well as quantity. There are bungee jumping clubs on virtually every inhabited continent of the globe. The fact that this extreme sport has taken such strides in popularity is evident from the number of clubs and the amount of jumpers who make the plunge every year. There are two primary bungee jumping safety organizations that operate as certification entities today. One is the United States Bungee Association (USBA), the other is the British Elastic Sports Association (BERSA). These organizations would be a good starting place to find a bungee jumping club, because they keep track of who is certified by their respective organizations. This is good, because you can be assured that the club is operating with safety procedures strictly enforced.

Some experienced bungee jumpers may want to start their own club. However, this is a big endeavor, and they should consider all of the steps necessary to start a club before they get started. Just a few of the things needed will be considered here.

First, in order to start a bungee jumping club, you would want to write and document your 'business plan', so-to-speak. This would document your project and would provide something for you to give out to prospective investors and concerned government agencies. You will need to acquire financing in order to pay for equipment, insurance, experienced crew, jump location, etc. Once contracts are in place for the crew, location, etc., you will want to get any needed governmental permits. Once all the paperwork is in place, you can begin construction of your jump site. After testing with sandbags, and your crew, you will finally be ready to start promoting your bungee jumping club. As you can see, these are only an overview of the steps required. Even this short list presents a formidable task to starting a club.

It is probably best to start by joining an existing bungee jumping club, and drawing from their experience while you grow your own experience. This would provide the springboard needed to launch your own bungee jumping club in the future.

Ways To Bungee Jump

Editor — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 22:21:20 +0000

There are many ways to bungee jump. While this extreme sport has one main method, there are many varieties that have come to life in the past decade of this international sport. As the old adage goes, 'variety is the spice of life'. This is true even in the already spicy endeavor of bungee jumping.

The variety in bungee jumping usually comes from the position in which you perform the jump, how you are tethered, and any 'tricks' you may attempt to perform during the jump or the rebound. First, let's take a look at the different methods of being tethered, and see what impact that has on your jump.

The most common attachment method is the use of a body harness. The body harness attaches to your body near the center of gravity, or your belly button. One effect of this type of tethering is that it makes it easier to perform flips and spins. Leg harness or ankle harnesses are another way of attaching to the bungee cord. This type of tethering allows for more of the free fall feeling that is traditional with bungee jumping. It is strictly based on the example of the land divers in the South Pacific. Just these two different ways to bungee jump have a vast impact on the performance of the jump and the sensations afforded the jumper. The other variations basically depend on your position when you jump. We will examine a few of these ways to bungee jump in greater detail here.

The position that comes highly recommended is called the Swallow Dive. Just as it sounds, your flight downward will resemble the dive of the bird. Initiated by taking a 'flying leap' away from the platform, the body forms the shape of a bird with the arms outstretched like a bird's wings.

Another way to bungee jump is called the Bat Drop. In this position, you are held in place upside down. This is achieved either with the help of the jump crew, or by suspending by your toes off the platform. The effect is less wind resistance, and you drop like a rock on this one.

The most common way to bungee jump when jumping off of a bridge is to do the Rail Jump. This is very basic, and consists of balancing on the rail of the bridge prior to jumping. Again, some of the jump crew will usually assist in helping you balance on the rail. This seems to actually be easier than climbing over the rail in order to jump.

Another way to bungee jump that is gaining in popularity today is the tandem jump. In this variation, two jumpers take the plunge together. It is somewhat dangerous, as bumping heads at the bottom can be unpleasant, to say the least. The jumpers are actually tethered together, so they are both committed to the jump.

Keep in mind, however, that this is by no means a complete list. There are many more ways to bungee jump that what are mentioned here. As the future of this sport appeals to more people with advanced safety methods, there are sure to be more ways to bungee jump developed.

Modern Bungee Jumping

Editor — Sat, 10 Jul 2010 13:49:20 +0000

Modern bungee jumping started with a jump from a suspension bridge in Bristol, England, on April 1, 1979. Obviously, it was no April fool's joke. From a height of 250 ft., four friends from the 'Dangerous Sports Club' leapt into the history books by taking the historic plunge. They were promptly arrested by the authorities shortly after completion of their activities. However, this failed to dampen their spirits much. They moved their jumping activities to the United States, where the jumped from the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco, California. They also managed to secure sponsorship from the American television show 'That's Incredible' for their jump from the Royal Gorge bridge in Colorado. Their perseverance helped bring modern bungee jumping to the spotlight of the media, and the masses.

Bungee jumping takes place around the world today, from Australia to the United States, to many countries in Europe. It is well respected as a dangerous and extreme sport. Despite it's obvious dangerous aspect, millions of people have successfully completed jumps since the onset of modern bungee jumping. Indeed, tens of thousands of bungee jumpers take the plunge each year, in an ever-increasing variety of ways and places.

Many commercial endeavors have sprung up because of the rise in popularity of bungee jumping in the modern sports world. One of the most notable and respected outfits is the A. J. Hackett Bungee Company in New Zealand. A. J. Hackett founded the company in the late 1980s, after popularizing the sport with his own jumps. Indeed, he contributed to the modern bungee jumping by developing a new type of bungee cord. He personally demonstrated his new super elastic bungee cord when he jumped from the Eiffel Tower in 1987. His company has done a great service to the sport by helping to develop modern means and methods that provide a safer form of bungee jumping.

Modern bungee jumping has even crept into some aspects of mainstream western culture. For example, there have been a few major movies that have featured a bungee jump in their plot. One of the most well-known of these movies would be the James Bond spy-thriller, 'GoldenEye', from 1995. In this particular film, Bond is shown performing a bungee jump from what is supposed to be a dam in Russia. While the jump was actually performed, and was not computer or artist generated animation, the actual location of the jump was incorrect. The filming actually took place at the Versazca Dam in Switzerland.

Modern bungee jumping has even become a sport that in which the participants are striving to outdo one another. The Guinness Book of World Records has become involved, and has recorded what they have officially deemed as the 'highest commercial bungee jump'. This jump takes place from the Bloukrans River bridge in South Africa. At over 700 feet above the floor of the valley, it is an astounding feat indeed. While other jumps have taken place from higher locations, this particular locale is considered the highest because it is purely a bungee jump. There are no additional cords or secondary safety cables … just the good ol' bungee cord. Like it or not, it looks like modern bungee jumping is here to stay.

Adventure Sports, Bungee Jumping

Editor — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 10:00:20 +0000

Bungee jumping is an adventurous sport where the participant jumps from a great height while he is connected to a large rubber rope. The jump can be made from the top of a tall building, bridge or crane. To bring in more adrenalin rush, jump can be made from a moving object like helicopter or a hot air balloon.

Bungee word was developed in 1930, which meant rubber eraser. The idea originated from dwellers of the Pentecost Island, who used to tie vines to their ankles and jumped from tall wooden platforms. The vine was substituted by elastic cord. Members of the Dangerous Sports club made the first official bungee jumping on April 1, 1979 from the Clifton Suspension Bridge in Bristol. Initially they were arrested, but later on they appeared on television and jumped from many places including hot air balloon and mobile cranes, in 1982.

A J Hackett of New Zealand did the first commercial bungee jumping in 1986, from Auckland's Greenhithe Bridge. After that he made numerous jumps from famous monuments like the Eiffel Tower. The first bungee jumping site was laid in Queenstown, New Zealand, on the Kawarau Bridge.

The rubber rope absorbs the complete energy of the fall and when the rope snaps back, the jumper flies in the upward direction. The process of oscillation continues until all energy is utilized. The rubber rope is covered with cloth and has hooks on both the end. It is a specially designed braided shock cord. A tough outer cover encloses many latex strands. The function of the tough outer cover is to provide durability. Some consider using unbraided cords without the tough outer cover, which delivers a longer and softer bounce. Commercial operators are forced to use body harness to ensure safety in case of accidents.

Variations to traditionally bungee jumping are catapult, twin tower, bungee running and bungee trampoline. In catapult, the jumper is placed on the ground and the cord is stretched, usually with the help of a crane, and then the jumper is released and he goes shooting up in the air. Twin towers employs two oblique cords. Bungee running, as the name suggests involves running and not jumping. The rope is attached to the participant and he runs as far as possible on an inflatable surface. The point maximum reached is marked with the help of a Velcro-backed marker, after which the runner gets pulled back to his initial position. Two or more people are involved in this and it is more like a running competition. Bungee Trampoline has a mix of bungee and trampolining. The body is fitted into a harness attached to a trampoline, which in turn is attached to a bungee. When the participant begins to jump he goes higher than a normal trampoline would.

Bungee jumping has been incorporated in many movies and video albums. The most famous of all is the James Bond movie, Golden Eye, which was released in 1995. The movie opens with Bond jumping from a dam in Russia. The jump was no special effect and was genuine.

Like other sports, bungee jumping has its share of possible injuries. The reason for most of them is human error, along with failure of safety harness, miscalculation of elasticity of the rope and improper connection of the cord. Possible injuries are body entangling with the rope, rope burn, dislocations, eye trauma, uterine prolapsed, back injury, pinched fingers and bruises. Jumper's age, weight, experience, and location should be reviewed before the jump, as a safety measure.

The Highest Bungy Jumping In The World

Editor — Sun, 07 Mar 2010 15:17:20 +0000

Located in Southeast Asia, Macau offers the highest bungy jumping in the world. There, you can have the opportunity to throw yourself off of the Macau Tower, a height which is approximately 764 feet (233m). This is an experience which you will most likely never forget– and it must be experienced first-hand in order to be fully appreciated.

If you are seeking the very best in true thrills and excitement, the Macau Tower is surely the place to go for your bungy jumping! In addition to being the highest jump, this particular experience has the added factor of allowing the jumper to fall very close to the concrete tower itself during your descent downward. This factor has the dual purpose of both assessing your speed and creating an increased adrenalin flow. Your plummeting speed will reach approximately 200km/hr; and at the end of your ride on a fifty-meter cord, you will be thirty meters from the ground. There is probably nothing else that you will ever do in your entire lifetime that can ever compare to the adrenalin rush you will get from bungy jumping off the Macau Tower. Their word for this experience– "extreme"– is undoubtedly a very accurate description.

The A.J. Hackett Macau Tower was opened to the public in December, 2006. Launched and overseen by A.J. Hackett, who first invented the sport of bungy jumping more than two decades ago, the Macau Tower bungy jump experience does contain a number of very important safety precautions. His group has developed a special cord system which ensures, among other things, the even distribution of weight during the jumping. Jumpers also wear a safety harness with dual attachment points for their protection.

In addition, prospective jumpers must meet height, weight, and basic health requirements, as well as being properly informed in advance as to the potential risks of the bungy jumping. For the sake of their own safety, pregnant women, and children under thirteen years of age, are not allowed to participate in this activity. The prospective jumper is required to sign a waiver stating that he or she is aware of these risks before being allowed to jump.

To commemorate your amazing experience, you will be provided with a membership card, photos, a DVD, and a special Jumpers Edition t-shirt. If you sign up for your bungy jumping experience with the A. J. Hackett Group, you will also receive a ten-percent discount at many of Macau's local restaurants, fifty-percent off your second and third jumps, and your fourth jump will be free. Membership will also entitle you to a twenty-percent discount at all of A. J. Hackett's worldwide adventure locations.

If all of this interests you, you should go to the adventure capital of Southeast Asia for the most unforgettable bungy jumping experience of a lifetime. You can request more information or book your trip through the A.J. Hackett Group. After you arrive in Hong Kong, you will take a one-hour ferry ride to Macau– and be prepared for an extreme experience!

Bungy Jumping Clubs Around The World

Editor — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 04:19:20 +0000

If you are a newcomer to the sport of bungy jumping and wish to find others who share your likeminded interests, or if you're a seasoned jumper who considers this sport to be one of your main passions, you may be interested in connecting with bungy clubs and their members. As the popularity of this sport has become worldwide, so have the clubs which cater to bungy jumping enthusiasts!

In the United States, there are currently twenty-five states which have their own listed bungy clubs. This is quite impressive for a sport which has only been in existence in its present form for the last two decades. Some of these states boast more than one club; California has the most, located in Sacramento, El Segundo, Alameda, and Los Gatos. Canada presently lists five, located in British Columbia, Alberta, Ottawa, and two in Ontario. If you are truly passionate about this sport, checking into these bungy jumping clubs is a great way to make your experiences even better.

If you wish to do a bit of traveling to join in with bungy jumping clubs, you can proceed to Mexico, Costa Rica, Brazil, Peru, Argentina, Guatemala, Colombia, Venezuela, or Ecuador. Whether your interest in bungy clubs is for the jumping itself or interacting with other members, these clubs in Central America and South America will give you both benefits as well as broadening your horizons in very different geographical locales.

In the United Kingdom, many of the best bungy clubs are affiliated with the British Elastic Rope Sports Association in Oxford, England. Endorsement by this Association assures you that the clubs have met and maintain specific standards, including the Code of Safe Practice. In becoming involved with any of these clubs, you will know that your safety is their primary concern. It is important to note that bungy jumping clubs in the United Kingdom are not required to be affiliated with the Association, and only those who are must adhere to their standards. Therefore if you wish to become involved with bungy jumping clubs in the United Kingdom, it is a good idea to find out beforehand if the club you are interested in has been approved by the British Elastic Rope Sports Association.

In addition to those located in the United Kingdom, twenty-four other countries in Europe list bungy jumping clubs, as well as fourteen clubs in other locations. If traveling will be a part of your bungy jumping experiences, becoming involved in the bungy jumping clubs in the areas you will visit will certainly add to your enjoyment. In selecting foreign destinations in which to engage in your hobby, you can go beyond the sport to the extra fun of taking part in a new culture, sampling its cuisine, learning a new language, and, above all, having the opportunity to get to know many other people who share your interest in bungy jumping. You may choose a club close to your own home, or you can make it an even more special treat by finding one to your liking on the opposite side of the globe!

Bungee Or Bungie Jumping

Editor — Sun, 14 Feb 2010 09:55:20 +0000

You've seen it, but perhaps are still unaware of the controversy surrounding bungee jumping. No, I'm not talking about the obvious discussion surrounding the safety of this sport. What I want to present in this article is the origins of the word 'bungee'. Actually, there is some controversy as to whether it is bungee or bungie jumping. My word processor's spell check feature likes the 'bungee' version, but as we shall soon see, this may not actually be the historically correct spelling.

While the sport of bungee jumping was brought to the forefront of the modern public's attention by a BBC documentary in the 1950s, the term bungee was in use prior to this time. The natives whose religious ceremony has evolved into this sport did not come up with this term, as some might suspect. Looking back into the dictionaries of the past and the etymology of the word, we can find this disclaimer: origin unknown. While this may be the official stance, let's take a closer look at the word, it's historical uses, and possible origins.

The first documented use in Western culture of any variation of the word bungee appeared in a novel called 'Tall Ship' in 1915. The spelling of the word in this novel was actually 'bunje', and was used as a nick-name for a physical training instructor on the ship. It just so happens that the term also referred to Indian rubber, or rubber that was exported from India at the time. Perhaps the nickname was used as a reference to the stretching performed as part of the instructor's training regimen, as similar to the stretching of rubber from the rubber tree.

The next variation occurs in 1934, in a journal called the 'N&Q'. The statement is made referencing the use of the term 'india-bungie' or 'bungie' in the school classrooms referring to soft rubber used as an eraser. Interestingly enough, the reference is to the word's usage some fifty years prior to the publication date, which would be back in the 1880s. Perhaps we are getting closer to the origin? Can we come to a conclusion yet as to whether it is bungee or bungie jumping?

Let's look a bit closer at the idea that the word comes from an Indian rubber produced at the turn of the 20th century. In the country of India, Hindi was and still is the native language. If we look into the Hindi language, we can find some idea as to the origin of this strange word. In the early 1800s the term 'bungy' and a variation, 'bhangi' was used in a derogatory manner towards house servants. In fact, during this time, the term described a low caste, usually employed as sweepers. They were considered among the lowest servants in the home. Could it be possible that the name for this group was later given to a product that they began to produce? If these servants were put into the fields to harvest the sap of rubber trees, it would not be a far stretch to see their nickname associated with the product of their toil.

Whatever the case may be, today we see two primary spellings. Whether you participate in bungee or bungie jumping today may have more to do with where you go for your jump. Those in the northern hemisphere seem to prefer the term 'bungee', while those in the southern hemisphere stick with the more traditional 'bungie'.

Bungee Jumping Equipment

Editor — Sun, 10 Jan 2010 03:19:20 +0000

Bungee jumping equipment comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. In fact, each piece of the equipment used in bungee jumping can have quite a few variations. It is a good idea to familiarize yourself with the equipment used in bungee jumping before you participate in a jump. This way you will know what to look for and what type of setup you would like best. While there are many different types of platforms and retrieval equipment, for the purpose of this article, we will look at two things that will affect your jump the most – the bungee cord, and the harness.

When talking about bungee jumping equipment, the bungee cord is one of the most important items. There are several variations on the type of cord that is used in bungee jumping today. There are braided cords, unbraided cords, pre-stretched and un-stretched, natural rubber, mil spec, and the Euro cord. These are the major variations in the bungee cord used in today's bungee jumping sports events. Let's take a minute to look at the characteristics of each one of these cords, and the impact that it has on the end user: the bungee jumper.

First, there is the military specification cord (or mil spec), which is manufactured to meet the requirements of the U. S. military. Of course, the military uses it to tie down equipment, not jump from bridges and other tall objects! However, because of the rigorous and standardized testing of the mil spec, these cords work well for bungee jumping. When using mil spec cords in bungee jumping, they are usually grouped together to form a set, as one cord can typically hold around 200 pounds of weight. Each cord has a protective sheath on it to prevent dirt and foreign objects from abrading the cords. The downside to this is that it is not possible to inspect the ends of the cords for fraying and / or signs of failure.

Some bungee cords are pre-stretched. This prevents the cord from stretching as much during the actual jump, which provides more of a 'jerking' action and a shock as the jumper reaches the end of the cord length. These are used mostly in the northern hemisphere. In the southern hemisphere the commercial proponents of bungee jumping tend to use a natural rubber, un-stretched and unbraided cord. This provides for a lot more 'bounce' and a more smooth experience at the bottom of the jump. While these natural cords do not last as long as the mil spec cords, they do provide a much more comfortable jump for the average user.

The next piece of bungee jumping equipment that you should inquire about is known as the harness. There are two main types of harnesses – the leg harness and the body harness. The leg harness usually consists of a towel wrapped around the ankles with webbing tied around this in a special knot. The towel provides padding to help prevent injury to the ankles. The webbing is then attached to the bungee cord. The body harness is very similar to a climber's harness, and in fact, is many times the same thing. The most important aspect of the harness is how it attaches – if it is secure – to the bungee. Some accidental deaths have occurred when the bungee cord was attached using climbing carabineers instead of specialized equipment. It can definitely be said that bungee jumping equipment has come a long way since the vines on Pentecost Island!

The Risks Of Bungy Jumping

Editor — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 01:37:20 +0000

Thusfar, there have been a half-dozen deaths and nearly as many critical injuries attributed to bungy jumping. As bungy jumping is a relatively new sport, this is a significant number, and should make clear for anyone considering bungy jumping that it is quite risky indeed. While how well the bunjy jumping equipment is maintained and overseen for its safety factors plays a large role in preventing deaths, there are a number of health risks associated with the sport itself.

Deaths and critical injuries generally occur as a result of improperly maintained equipment or miscalculations of cord length. A death from massive cranial trauma occurred in 1997, for example, from improperly handled cords. The victim was a female member of a professional bungy jumping team.

However, even with the most stringent safety precautions, it is not possible to eliminate risks of injury, especially those which are actually associated with the sport of bungy jumping. One of the most significant risks particular to women is that of uterine prolapse. It is said that the speed and pressure of the bungy jumping can cause the uterus to not only tip but, in some cases, slide out of its normal location and even out of the body itself. This, naturally, is very dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Eye trauma is another very serious health risk from bungy jumping. One of the most dangerous types of eye trauma associated with this sport is retinal hemorrhage; this presents a very real possibility of losing one's eyesight. Bungy jumping also presents the possibility of orbital emphysema, which can also result in permanent loss of vision. On a slightly-lesser scale, but still noteworthy, are basic injuries to the eyes and their surrounding tissues.

Other health risks vary in their severity. While such injuries as bruises and rope burn may be thought to be rather minor, dislocations and back injuries can range from moderate to disabling. One must decide if all of these potential risks are worth engaging in the sport of bungy jumping, especially since there is no sure way of calculating the individual's chance of these results occurring. Even being in good general health beforehand is not a guarantee that the act of bungy jumping will not lead to any or all of these results.

If you have assessed your own personal health concerns and have decided to try bungy jumping anyway, it is essential that you do your bungy jumping on equipment which is frequently checked for and maintained for the optimum degree of safety. Next, you should ensure that those who handle the equipment before and during bungy jumping are adequately trained to do so properly. In addition, you should consider the factor that some bungy jumping groups allow newcomers to the sport to bungy jump alone, while others take the extra safety precaution of having a newcomer be accompanied by a trained jumper.

As with any adventurous sport, bungy jumping comes with many risks. It is impossible to eliminate all of these risks, regardless of how professional those in charge may be or how cautious the jumper may be. If you plan to become involved with bungy jumping, it is essential that you become aware of these risks.

The Discovery Of Bungee Jumping

Editor — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 22:23:20 +0000

The discovery of bungee jumping may have taken place back in the 1700s by European explorers, but it was not until the 20th century that bungee jumping really made waves around the world. The current public awareness and concept of bungee jumping stems from a BBC documentary that aired during the 1950s on the topic of the land divers from Pentecost Island in the South Pacific. This documentary really brought the subject to public masses for the first time since the discovery of bungee jumping several hundred years ago.

It was Sir David Attenborough (one of the BBC's best known broadcasters and writers) and his crew that recorded the first film footage of the land divers, or bungee jumpers from the island of Penetecost in the 1950s. The discovery of bungee jumping was so intriguing and original, that it sparked quite an interest in the modern western world. Most people had never seen anything quite like it, much less ever attempted such a feat. Seeing the young natives jump from seventy foot stick towers and hurl themselves at the ground was shocking. The fact that they were tethered to the tower with a jungle vine was almost unbelievable.

Because of the impressive nature of this primitive form of bungee jumping, the American show 'That's Incredible!' (which ran on the American Broadcasting Network from 1980-84) actually sponsored a jump from the Royal Gorge bridge. They filmed the event and aired it on their television show, which could be considered one of the original 'reality TV' shows of our times. In addition, an extreme sports group based on Oxford and London called 'The Dangerous Sports Club' began to practice the new sport of bungee jumping. Inspired by the BBC documentary, this group is credited with the first modern bungee jump. The jump took place in Bristol, England, from the Clifton Suspension Bridge in April of 1979. These events catapulted the discovery of bungee jumping into the full attention of the mainstream media and the public's eye.

Within a few short years, the world would see an onslaught of bungee jumping enthusiasts and clubs to cater to the excitement of this new and dangerous sport. Modern commercial bungee jumping operators perform and provide jumping services from a variety of mobile cranes, hot air balloons, bridges and other types of structures. Commercial operators utilize the most advanced techniques and equipment to ensure safety of their patrons. Despite the intrinsic danger involved, insurance companies now provide liability coverage for such endeavors, as there have been few fatalities overall.

Since the modern discovery of bungee jumping, millions of people world-wide have taken the plunge into this extreme sport. There have been many safety standards and strict guidelines set up to protect the public from injury as much as possible. Many permanent bungee jumping sites have even been set up. The first such site was set up at the Kawarau Bridge in New Zealand. It can truly be said that the discovery of bungee jumping has brought an ancient religious ritual into the forefront of the extreme sports culture of the 21st century, and surely beyond.

Bungy Jumping As Stunts

Editor — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 07:52:20 +0000

While we may never know for certain which is actually stronger– the media's influence on the public, or the public's influence on the media– but there is no way to discount the fact that the influence in both directions is very strong indeed. The general population, especially the younger people, are greatly influenced by what they see on on the movie screen, and they wish to emulate their favorite stars. The actions which the celebrities take part in, American youth wants to take part in also. And bungy jumping is no exception!

On the other hand, what is presented in the media often clearly mirrors the behaviors and the lifestyles of the American public. For better or for worse, a large part of American entertainment is based on mimicking their audiences. If it is popular amongst "regular folks," presenting it on the movie screen tends to make it even more popular.

One of the most well-known recent movie stunts showed James Bond jumping over the edge of a dam in "GoldenEye." Bond's bungy jump stunt was for real, not merely a movie effect. Bungy jumping has become an interesting stunt in modern movies, as evidenced by the growing number of bungy jumping companies which offer special training to those who plan to do similar stunts in films. On the Hollywood scene there have always been actors who specialized in movie stunts in general, but seeing more doing bungy jumping stunts shows how popular this sport has become.

The James Bond character, stunt-doubled by Wayne Michaels, may have performed one of the most recently popular bungy jump stunts, but is far from being unique. Even thought it was voted as the best stunt ever filmed did not distract others from attempting the same feat; perhaps it even assisted others in wanting to meet or even outdo what Wayne Michaels did.

Bungee America, which offers great bungy jumping experiences to all who wish to try the sport, is also Hollywood's number one bungy stunt company. Since 1996, they have assisted in the bungy jump stunts for no less than forty-five Hollywood films. The first, made in February, 1996, starred Arnold Schwarzenegger in his movie "Eraser." In this movie, which involved falling sixty-five feet and doing a back-flip, Schwarzenegger did not use a double, but performed the stunt himself. This is quite impressive, and surely a positive influence on the fans, because most stars do use doubles in their place for such dangerous stunts. It undoubtedly has prodded his already-large number of fans to have an even deeper respect for this actor.

Bungy jumping is clearly a sport which is here to stay, and its appeal in the media proves it. The more that Hollywood presents it as stunts in their films the more the general public will want to take part; and the wider the public interest and involvement in bungy jumping, the more commonplace it will continue to be on the movie screen– for daily life mirrors the media, and the media mirrors daily life.

Bungee Jumping Accidents

Editor — Sat, 03 Oct 2009 19:45:20 +0000

Bungee jumping is, by it's nature, a dangerous sport. There is no denying that fact. However, modern manufacturing methods and safety practices have made the sport much safer over the past decade. It is certainly safer than the land diving of the South Pacific natives. Unfortunately, even with all of these advances in the sport, bungee jumping accidents still occur. In this article we will examine what can happen as a result of bungee jumping.

The most severe bungee jumping accidents can actually be fatal. Most of the fatalities that have occurred in bungee jumping occur as a result of head trauma. Miscalculation of the length of bungee cord necessary to complete the jump safely has resulted in several deaths since the sport became a public phenomenon in the late 1970s. One of the most infamous deaths from bungee jumping occurred during practice for the half-time show of Superbowl XXXI, in 1997. Laura Patterson, who was practicing with members of her professional team, died upon impact when she jumped from the top level of the Louisianna Superdome. The accident was blamed on the bungee cords being handled incorrectly. The half-time show was subsequently cancelled, and a tribute to Laura was performed instead. Other deaths have resulted from people actually coming loose from the ankle harness. This has led to the common practice of using a body harness as a back-up safety precaution.

Bungee jumping enthusiasts will be quick to point out, however, that there are only a handful of deaths from among millions of jumps that have been performed over the last few decades. Even though this is true, there are many other types of bungee jumping accidents that can occur if strict safety guidelines are not followed. Rope burn, pinched fingers and bruises are among the most common injuries suffered from bungee jumping. While these may not be attributable to actual bungee jumping accidents, they can be considered an adverse side-effect by most people.

More serious than sprains and bruises are the possibilities of other bungee jumping accidents, such as severe eye trauma, dislocation, back injury, and even broken bones. These are not highly publicized events, but they do occur nonetheless. In the case of the eye trauma, increased pressure in the eye an cause a blood vessel to burst near the retina. This results in blurred vision or loss of eyesight completely. Although it sounds horrific, this is only temporary, until the body repairs the damage done. Of more concern would be back injuries and broken bones. In the case of back injuries, a dislocation or strain on the spine can cause a lifetime of pain and suffering. That is something to take into account when weighing the risks of bungee jumping.

Bungee jumping accidents do occur, but they can be minimized by following established safety procedures. It is up to you to ask the right questions. It is up to the commercial company or club to ensure they have the right equipment and trained operators. Bungee jumping can be fun, and does not have to involve serious injury if done correctly by trained operators and jumpers.

Bungee Jumping Culture

Editor — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 06:37:20 +0000

There is something about an individual that is willing to jump from a high place, attached to a rubber band. This modern extreme sport, known as bungee jumping, seems to have it's own culture attached to it. It's almost ethereal, hard to put your finger on it, but it is there. Perhaps it comes from the past, or is a morphing into a new spiritual experience, but the bungee jumping culture can be seen and felt.

So what is the bungee jumping culture? Where did it come from? Where is it going? The origins of the sport itself gives us a clue as to where the bungee jumping culture came from. Originally a religious ritual used on the South Pacific island of Pentecost to appease mother earth, it was supposed to proved for a good yam crop. It was also a demarcation, a rite of passage, for young boys to become known as men. Since as long as anybody can tell, these natives have conducted this ritual every spring, literally for thousands of years. The prevailing culture of the original land divers was definitely a spiritual one.

Re-discovered in the 1950s and promoted heavily in the modern world during the 1980s, bungee jumping has grown by leaps and bounds. The modern bungee jumping culture doesn't consist of primitive natives trying to appease the mother earth. However, there is a back-to-earth element to this extreme death defying outdoor sport. It provides a thrilling adrenaline rush that is next to nothing else on earth. Perhaps space travel could rival this effect, but I doubt it. The bungee jump goes beyond the limited religious and cultural conflicts of our modern day, and appeals to something more primitive, more basic. The modern bungee jumping culture is a multi-ethnic, multi-generational, and multi-socio-economic group, all looking for the thrill of their lives.

So what does the modern bungee jumping culture look like? It defies logic. Both young and old alike flock to bungee jumping events. There is simply a mystique that permeates this sporting event like no other. Back to mother earth, defying death, and telling the tale – all of these are the bragging rights of successful bungee jumpers. They all share in common this aspect of the sport – survival. Jumpers face a primeval fear, the ultimate loss – death, and overcoming that fear to complete a jump. There is a sense of accomplishment and victory that goes beyond mountain climbing and other extreme sports.

Taking the back-to-nature theme to the extreme, there is a new movement within bungee jumping called nude bungee jumping. It typically appeals to the green back-to-earth movement, as well as the frugal bungee jumpers. Commercial bungee jumping outfitters usually provide a discount, or even a free jump, if someone decides to go the full monty. This type of jump is usually done with a partner, for a spiritual bonding that goes beyond the everyday realm. This is yet another evidence that the bungee jumping culture is evolving beyond normal boundaries, and we have yet to truly see what it will become.

The History Of Bungee Jumping

Editor — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 13:05:20 +0000

The history of bungee jumping goes back many hundreds, if not thousands of years. Coming from another culture in a land that time seems to have forgotten, we find an ancient ritual called 'naghol' or land diving. It is an intriguing story with some elements of mystery, religion, and adventure. Let's take a closer look at the history of bungee jumping.

Examining the history of bungee jumping takes us to a small island in the South Pacific named Pentecost Island, one of 83 islands that make up the country of Vanuatu. Pentecost Island was discovered in 1768 by French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville during his voyage to circumnavigate the globe. It was not named, however, until sighted by the infamous Captain Cook in 1774. The name came as a result of the day on which Cook spotted the island, which was the Christian holy day of Pentecost. During the history of bungee jumping, many Christian missionaries have attempted to change the culture of the inhabitants of Pentecost Island. However, even though most of the inhabitants of the island profess Christianity today, their ancient culture and rituals remain strong. Bungee jumping is one such ritual.

The history of bungee jumping goes back to ancient times and beliefs about pleasing the gods in order to get good crops. The yam harvest is the principle event around which the naghol, the ancient predecessor of bungee jumping, takes place. The natives believed that if your jump was acceptable that the gods would grant you a good harvest. It is also a ceremony which marks the right of passage from a boy's youth to manhood. They believed that the males who jump (it was only males, by the way), should not have sex the evening before their jump, and should wear no 'good luck charms'. Either of these was said to produce a bad jump. On an island without a hospital of any kind, any injury can become life threatening. Indeed, the history of bungee jumping has some very strange roots.

While examining the history of bungee jumping, it is intriguing to see how these ancient people practice this religious ceremony. Prior to the jump day, a wooden tower is built that is some seventy feet in height. Latched together with vines and no modern construction methods, it appears to be far from stable. To reduce the swaying of the tower from the wind, vines are used like guy wires. Groups of 20 or so men participate in the land diving ceremony. As the young men would jump, their mothers would toss an object from their childhood to the earth, symbolizing their transition from a child to a man.

While the ancient history of bungee jumping is still shrouded in some mystery, we do know where the modern activity originated. It is a wonder that this practice remained isolated to the South Pacific after the discovery from the European explorers. Only in the 20th century has this ancient ritual been promoted to the world as a new sport. The history of bungee jumping will never be the same.

Who Is Best Suited For Bungy Jumping

Editor — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 01:04:20 +0000

As with all sports, there are some people who are more suited to bungy jumping than others. Those who are naturally inclined toward seeking the most extremes of thrills and excitement are those who will most likely be drawn to bungy jumping. It is certainly not a sport for the timid, the nervous, the faint-hearted! One of the most basic components of this sport is the extreme nature of it– the amazing rush of adrenalin you will receive from plummeting downward at high speeds, your life and safety guarded only by elastic bungy cords and, in some cases, a body harness. It is easy to see why there is virtually no other sport which can compare to the experience of bungy jumping.

Given the daredevil, death-defying aspect of this sport, it should not be surprising that there are more men than women who go for bungy jumping. It is also not surprising that younger people choose this sport much more frequently than older people, as older people are generally less inclined to engage in activities which present unnecessary risks. Some studies have also shown that most women are not impressed with men who base their "macho" image on activities such as bungy jumping, and even consider it to be reckless behavior. For the women who do have an interest in bungy jumping, however, there is a very clear emphasis on participating in this sport rather than being a spectator.

Many people place bungy jumping in the category of things they would love to try, but lack the courage. Others simply consider the risks to be too great. Obviously those who have preexisting health conditions which would make bungy jumping more risky for them would be wise to steer clear of this sport. Children who are too young to be fully aware of the risks involved should also not participate in bungy jumping. Pregnant women should definitely avoid bungy jumping.

You can safely assume that bungy jumping companies which advertise that this sport is for anyone and everyone are not demonstrating adequate responsibility for the lives and health of their prospective customers. In addition to these obvious factors, to be basically average in height and weight is also important, as these factors contribute to the safety of the jumping itself, as well as the general body-type size that the bungy jumping equipment has been designed for.

If both your health and temperament are suited to this sport, and you have decided that it is something you definitely wish to try, it is essential to select a bungy jumping company that is both reputable and responsible. For all prospective bungy jumpers, but especially beginners, having the knowledge beforehand that the equipment is correctly designed, maintained on a regular basis, and handled properly during its use, will contribute to both your safety and your peace of mind.

If you meet these basic requirements, and have assessed the potential risks as being worth taking for the experience, you may be one of those who is well suited for the sport of bungy jumping!

How Did Bungy Jumping Become So Popular

Editor — Fri, 03 Jul 2009 20:24:20 +0000

Some people love anything that is new. Some people love anything that is adventurous. Put both of those key elements together and it is easy to see how bungy jumping very quickly went from being one individual inventing an elastic rope and tossing himself off high structures to a legitimate sport which has gained worldwide popularity in a relatively short period of time. Twenty-five years ago no one had heard of bungy jumping; today, it is all the rage– everywhere!

Bungy jumping is one sport for which the aspect of newness is constant. Whether a person is attempting his very first jump or has made it a consistent part of his lifestyle, the element of adventure is such that each and every jump is a fresh experience. Even if you frequent the same bungy jumping sites on a regular basis, this is a sport in which every experience is different, and each time feels like the first time. Adventure-seekers of all ages and backgrounds will delight in this factor, because no matter how long you engage in the sport of bungy jumping it is something which will never become routine. The excitement is present whether it is your first jump or your twentieth!

The overwhelming sense of adventure helps in making bungy jumping so popular. There are many people who are naturally drawn to all of the aspects of thrill-seeking, from the adrenalin rush it has on one's entire system to the knowledge that one is essentially risking life and limb and hoping to win the game. There are no other sports that compare in these factors, which makes bungy jumping quite unique.

For those who have the time and resources to travel, this too plays a positive role in bungy jumping's popularity. While it isn't difficult to find a jumping site convenient to one's home area, companies which offer bungy jumping expeditions add to the enjoyment, as do faraway locations which make the bungy jumping experience a great vacation.

For individuals who have youth on their side, many feel the desire to experience everything that life can possibly offer. The more, the better; and the more intense, the more better yet. For the many who wish to try every extreme that can be found, this sport presents the most unforgettable experience. Those who feel the need to "try everything once" will find nothing lacking in bungy jumping! Being able to capture it on videotape for future reference, and to share with less-adventurous colleagues, is certainly an added bonus. Your bungy jumping experience on videotape could also be the factor needed to prod others into trying the sport for themselves.

Sometime in the future surely someone will feel the need to analyze this sport and what its allure is to those who choose to engage in it either as a hobby or a lifestyle. It would make more sense, though, to merely describe bungy jumping as fun– and that in itself is a good enough reason for its popularity.

Bungy Jumping In America

Editor — Sun, 28 Jun 2009 14:55:20 +0000

Although there are many bungy jumping sites in countries all over the globe, many Americans who have developed an interest in this sport would prefer locations that are closer to home. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in the United States where prospective bungy jumpers can begin trying out this fascinating new hobby. Whether you'd like a plan a traveling vacation centered around bungy jumping, or if you want a day of excitement nearer to where you live, it is not difficult to find a bungy jumping location which suits your needs. You may just decide to make it a part of your lifestyle.

Some of the prime bungy jumping sites in the United States can be found in California. Due to its year-round mild climate, outdoor sports in general are very popular in this state, and bungy jumping is no exception. Bungee America, which is located in Los Angeles, is one of the most well-known in Southern California. Since it first opened in 1989, Bungee America is the oldest bungy jumping company in the country. This fact, coupled with their perfect safety record, may help you in deciding that Bungee America would certainly be a good choice for your bungy jumping trip.

Pioneer, California, is home to Bungee Experience, which has been an operating business since 1989. It was founded by Glenn Bruno, one of America's first bungy jumpers. They usually schedule bungy jumping once per month between April and September at various Northern California bridges which are no lower than one hundred forty feet. They also offer bungy jumping excursions to higher bridges around the United States.

In Washington state you can find the Pacific North West Bridge surrounded by the area's breathtaking scenic beauty. Bungee.Com provides for this location's bungy jumping; if you elect to become a member of their Dangerous Sports Club you will be entitled to special members' discounts for your future trips.

Located in Wisconsin, the Extreme World's sports park has bungy jumping as its main attraction. The Extreme World Bungee Jump tower, at a height of one hundred thirty feet, is currently the only bungy jumping provider in the midwest that allows this sport to be done without the use of traditional ankle harnesses. Your Extreme World bungy jumping experience will have you plummeting toward the ground at a speed that accelerates to forty mph. After your fall has been successfully completed, you will be given the opportunity to purchase a videotape of your experience.

Over the Edge, Inc., in Boise, Idaho, offers bungy jumping for individuals and groups. They have bridge sites in various parts of Idaho, or they will take you on an excursion to any of their nineteen other bungy jump bridges in the western United States. One favorite is the Grand Canyon Jump, located at the northern tip of the Grand Canyon. Another popular bungy jumping experience offered by Over the Edge, Inc., is the one hundred sixty foot jump at Yellowstone National Park.

Wherever you are in the United States, and whichever part of America you would like to be the destination for your bungy jumping, there are plenty of options available.