ADVENTUROUS SPORTS Adventure sports differ from traditional games and sports because of higher number of uncontrollable variables. The unco...
ADVENTUROUS SPORTS
Adventure sports differ from traditional games and sports because of higher number of uncontrollable variables. The uncontrolled conditions may be related to wind, snow, water, mountains, etc. For such reasons, participation in adventure sports is rarely allowed in schools.
a) Rock Climbing
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| Rock Climbing |
Rock climbing is a sport in which Participants climb up, down or across a natural or artificial rock-walls. In rock climbing the objective or goal of a climber is to reach the end point or summit of a pre-decided route without falling. This activity requires ascending and descending a rock and the degree of difficulty and danger depends upon its inclination. It is a physically and mentally challenging sport and tests the strength, endurance, agility, balance and mental control of the climber.
The main danger associated with rock climbing is falling from the height. Other injuries may include cuts, bruises, etc. Overstraining or overuse of body parts can lead to permanent damage of tendons, ligaments, sheaths or membranes (outer coverings of internal organs).
Materials/Equipment required for rock climbing
1 Helmet
2. Rubber climbing shoes
3. Climbing ropes/High-strength cord.
4. Anchors
5. Harness or a set of straps for fastening.
6. Carabiners or hooks with safety locks
7. Belay devices
8. Rappel devices
9.Belay gloves
10. Ascenders
11. Slings
12. Nuts, pitons and hexes (six sided choc ks)
13 Camming devices
14. Daisy Chain
Safety Measures
1. The climber should be physically and mentally prepared.
2. Warm-up the body before rock climbing by doing push-ups and pull-up, This increases the body strength and is important to prevent injuries.
3. Get proper training in the fundamentals of rock climbing. The indoor practise of rock climbing techniques is very important.
4 Double check the knots before you start climbing.
5. Always wear a climbing helmet to avoid head injuries.
6. Make sure that the rope is properly tied to the belay device and the belay device is itself attached with a carabiner.
7. While belaying (the technique for holding the climbing rope as a safety tool) always pay attention to the leader above.
8. If you are leading the group, make sure that the rope is over your leg rather than between or behind the legs.
9. Be careful while lowering off a climbing route. It is always advisable & communicate with other climbers before lowering down.
10. Use chalk bags frequently to lessen the dampness of your hands while climbing.
(b) Trekking
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| Trekking |
Trekking means going on a long and difficult journey, especially on foot. fs course often includes journey over mountainous regions and woods. Such a trek can be for a day, few days or weeks, depending upon the distance to be covered As a matter of fact, there is no consideration of time in trekking. The main concern is to complete the trek.
Trekking tours are usually satisfying and invigorating but sometimes, a long trek can also turn out to be a bad experience due to..(a) poor weather,(b) rough terrain, and (c)wear & tear of the body. However the scenic beauty around the trekking route, the comradeship Of the group participating in the trek end the pleasures of such a program easily compensate for the discomforts.
Motivation for trekking can differ from individual to individual, The motivations can be
1.To enjoy the beauty of nature.
2 We have a physical experience of trekking.
3.To tackle the challenges faced while trekking.
4. To be on spiritual pilgrimage like trekking to Amarnath and Vaishno Devi Shrine.
5. To gain a sense of achievement.
Materials Required for Trekking Tours
Some essential requirements for a long-distance trek are:
Basic requirements
1. Back pack
2. Portable tent /shelter
3. Seeping bag
4. First aid kit
5.Trekking poles
6. Head Lamp/Torch
Clothing
1.Raincoat
2.Jacket
3. Trekking shoes and socks
4. Cap hat and gloves
5 Sunglasses
Cooking
1 Stove
2. Utensils
3. Food
4. Water
5. Fuel, matches lighter
Safety Measures
Keeping in mind the possible dangers and injuries related to trekking, some safety measures should be considered. The safety measures required for trekking tours are given below:
1. Avoiding extreme hot conditions: Extreme hot conditions on trek can cay, problems like (a) dehydration, (b) heat cramps (c) heat exhaustion and (d) heat exhaustion and (d) heat stroke
To avoid such problems, the following measures should be taken:
i) Increase the intake of fluids, especially water fluid intake is the only solution to save oneself from heatstroke and heat exhaustion.Avoid taking tee or coffee as they cause dehydration
ii) Rest in a cool place
iii)Protect yourself from the sun by wearing a cap hat and sunglasses
2.Avoiding extreme cold conditions: Sometimes extreme cold condition can also cause problems. To keep yourself warm, carry enough warm clothe wear gives, woollen socks, etc. Frostbite is the most dangerous problems caused due to continuous exposure to cold and damp conditions Such situation should be avoided in all circumstances.
3.Considering climatic conditions: Since weather is often unpredictable, plan the trek keeping in view the weather conditions and the availability of shelter on the way. Also, carry portable tents.
4.Using ankle straps etc: Rocky and uneven terrain often lead to twisted ankles, bruised heels, blisters on feet and other such complications. To avoid such problems, use ankle straps, ankle high shoes and other safety gears.
5 Taking proper rest: Carrying too much weight or exertion can cause injuries such as (a) fractures, (b) shin splints (c) sprains and (d) torn ligaments. To avoid such injuries from getting worse take adequate rest and proper first aid measures.
(c) River Rafting
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| River Rafting |
River rafting is another adventure sport. It is a river journey undertaken on a raft or boat made of inflatable maternal It is an extremely challenging and risks sport, where the participants sail through the fast flowing water. Inspite of al such dangers river rafting is a unique experience and a challenge to those who enjoy the thrills of rafting in the turbulent course of a river.
These days the techniques used to manoeuvre and propel river boats have changed a little and rafts have highly modern crafts to choose from. Apart from the most important requirements for rafting are the aquatic abilities, physical fitness and mental confidence of a rather. The main dangers of rafting are linked to:
(a) velocity of water
(b) the volume of water
(c) descent of the river beds at different places.
(d) narrow cliffs
(e) obstacles such as trees, boulders and undercut rocks.
Besides all such obstacles, river rafting provides many opportunities for developing friendship, leadership, comradeship qualities and many thrills of a water journey.
Materials Required
The essential requirements for a river rafting adventure are as follows:
Equipment
1. Raft
2. Oars/Paddles in case of paddle rafting
3. Life jackets
4. Helmets
5. Inflating pumps
6. Whistle
Clothing
1. Wetsuits made of body hugging neoprene
2.Paddling jackets and dry tops
3. Insulating caps
4. Boots or river sandals with extra straps for warmer climate
5. Gloves
Safety Measures
1. Be a competent swimmer with the ability to handle underwater Good physical health is also required to become eligible for a rafting trip it is advisable to do some warm-up exercises so that you can handle Paddles in strong river currents.
2. Take preliminary or preparatory lessons. Learn some rescue skills.
3. Wear a properly fitted helmet and life jacket.
4. Carry extra oars/paddles.
5. Do not ride the boat alone. Hire a guide or instructor so that you can fully enjoy the trip.
6. Select proper and high quality equipment.
7. Carry equipment for emergencies.
8. Do not boat away from the shore.
9. Avoid collisions against rocks. Be cautious of obstacles like fallen trees, underwater ridges, undercut rocks, holes, whirlpools and steep drops.
10. Do not over-estimate yourself. Know your physical limitations.
11. Take precautions against cold conditions. If your body temperature lowers down too quickly, it may lead to hypothermia. In such a case, keep yourself warm and dry.
12. Never go for rafting in the dark. Make sure you have plenty of time to return by sunset.
(d) Mountaineering
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| Mountaineering |
Mountain peaks have always fascinated human beings. Their heights have challenged the human spirit. Many brave and daring men have accepted thee challenges and tried to scale many peaks around the world. Some have succeeded, some have failed and some have even lost their lives. The Mount Everest is the highest mountain peak in the world hie us mountaineers have tried to scale it many times in the past. On May 29th, 1953.
Sir Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norway of Nepal, under the leadership of John Hunt of Britain,becme the first human beings to conquer the summit. Since then, many more People have achieved this feat. as it is cleat from the Experience of mountaineers, Mountaineering is risky adventure sport which requires:
- Physical fitness.
- endurance
- determination
- ascending and descending skills over snowy peaks in extremely hostile conditions.
Inspite of all such difficulties, the Sport of mountaineering attracts many adventure-loving people. This sport requires a lot of planning and requisite equipment to accomplish a summit.
Materials required in Mountaineering
1. Ice Axe
2. Helmets
3. Rapes and rope bags
4 Headlamp
5. Slings
6. Mountaineering poles
7. Mountaineering boots with crampons (metal plate with spikes)
8. Backpacks
9. Camming devices (protection equipment)
10. Pulleys and ascenders .
11. Carabiners and hooks with safety closures or springs
12. Belaying and rappel devices
13. Ice screws, nuts and hexes .
14. Harnesses (straps and fittings for fastening)
15. Oxygen cylinders and masks
Clothing
1. Jackets
2. Hats
3. Gloves
4 Gaiters
5 Wollen socks
Equipment for Camping
1.Tents
2.Sleeping bags
3.Champ chairs
4.Stove and utensils
5.Food supplies
6.Water
7.Lanterns or flash light
8. Fuel for cooking
Other Equipments
1.Binkculars
2.First aid kits
3.Maps, compasses and altimeters
Safety Measures
As mentioned earlier, mountaineering is a dangerous activity. Some dangers involved in mountaineer are as follows
(i) Extreme cold conditions to cold that may result in frostbites due to long exposure of cold.
(ii) Falling from ice slopes
(iii) Falling into crevices
(iv) Avalanches or mass of snow, ice and rocks falling down a mountain.
(v) Blizzards or severe snow storms
(vi) Harsh climate
In order to cope up with such hazards, proper safety measures are essential.
1. Plan the mountaineering programme in safe season, i.e. during the summer or spring season.
2. Carry all the essential equipment and camping requirements.
3. Survey the camping sites and shelters on the route and make the ascent program accordingly.
4. Take note of weather forecasts for the region to avoid getting caught in dangerous situations like lightning and snow storms, etc.
5. Be careful about avalanches.
6. Be careful about falling into crevices and take every precaution while crossing bridges over gaps due to big crevices
7. Keep ropes tied to each other around the waist while climbing
8. Wear enough warm clothes.
9. Drink warm fluids frequently.
10. Freezing temperatures can cause many problems such as frostbites, which can affect hands, feet, nose and ears In case of any doubt, take immediate preventive measures such as taking a warm drink Never use hot water.
11. The high altitude can cause Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), commonly known as altitude sickness This includes severe headache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, drowsiness, insomnia, etc. To avoid such altitude disorders, stay hydrated and warm and eat at regular intervals.
(e) surfing
Surfing is a water sport in which surfes rides on a moving wave, which usually carries the surfer towards the shore. The term surfing refers to the act of riding a wave which may be done with or without a surfing board. The modem-day surfing involves riding the water waves in standing position on a surfboard. It is primarily done on the waves in the ocean. However, waves suitable for surfing gan also be found in lakes, or river.
Body boarding is a type of surfing, in which surfers ride on a body board, either lying on their belly or standing up on the board. Other popular forms of surfing are body surfing, knee boarding, stand-up surfing, surf matting, etc.
Surfing is a prominent adventure sport in Hawai and California.
Materials required for Surfing
1. Surf boards
2. Long boards
3. Stand up paddle boards
4. Leash
5. Surf wax
6. Swim suits
7. Wet suits
Safety Measures
Some dangers linked to surfing are as follows:
(i) Drowning: While surfing there is a danger of drowning. Surfer should be a good swimmer and diver. It is advised to surf on smaller waves till you gain enough experience to handle bigger waves.
(ii) Collisions: There are chances of collisions with sand bare, rec ka, tee blocks reefs and other surfers.
(iii) Marine animals: Marine animals such an shark, weaver fish and jellyfish,can be dangerous while surfing
(iv) Rip currents. These are water channels that flow away from the sea shore. These rip currents can be dangerous for both experienced and inexperienced surfers
(v) Seabed Seabed can be dangerous for surfers The collision of surfer wig,sea bed may be fatal.
The following safety measures should be taken while surfing
1 Knowledge of local weather is extremely important before going fey surfing. Never go for surfing during storm Strong surface winds cay, change the direction and speed of waves Since sea water is salty and » & good conductor of electricity, surfing during a thunder storm can be fatal.
2. Beginners should always start with surfing on small waves. It is advised that a beginner should surf in 3 feet reef and 5 feet sand. Big waves are hallow and more dangerous. A beginner is not skillful enough to surf on these big waves.
3. Be aware of currents and rips. A beginner surfer might get trapped in currents and rips.
4 Surfer should be aware of the shallow parts. Boulders and rocks can be seen in low tide.
5 One should be aware of other surfers and their direction of surfing to avoid collisions.
6. Surfers should use good quality board and surfing gear. Surf board should be checked regularly for damage or wear and tear.
(f) Paragliding
Paragliding is an adventure sport which involves gliding through the atmospheric air without any engine. It is performed using a light-weight aircraft, which has no rigid structure. The paraglider is tied to this structure with a harness and is required to run or jog down a slope and take a flight.
There are different variations of paragliding such as hang gliding, speed riding, powered paragliding, etc.
Equipment required
1. Wing or Canopy: Wing or canopy is constructed with two layers of fabric. Both the layers are interconnected and are made of polyester or nylon fabric. These are portable and after folding can be kept in a bag.
2. Harness: Harness supports the paraglider in standing and sitting positions Modem harnesses have foam or air bag underneath the seat to reduce the impact during landings. Some harnesses are attached with lumber support.
3. Instruments:
(i) Variometer: Paragliders use variometer to find out rate of ascend of descend. Audio signals of different pitches are produced by variometer to indicate rate of ascend or descend. Variometer is also used aS altimeter which shows altitude of paraglider above mean sea level, above take off or flight level.
(i) Radio: Radio communications are used in training to communicate with other paragliders. Frequency band of all the radios is set so that it doesn’t disturb other means of communications.
(ii) GPS: Global Positioning System is needed during competitions to record check points. It is also used to determine route diversion due to prevailing side winds. GPS system is also used to identify the position of a paraglider in case of landing in unknown place.
Safety Measures
Paragliding is an extremely dangerous sport with chances of injuries.
The following safety measures should be taken during paragliding.
1.Good quality equipment should be used for paragliding.
2.Weather forecast should be observed before launching for paragliding.
3.The tow operator for launching should be fully trained.
4.Never attempt a flight level that is beyond your capacity.
5.Fixed rope towing is extremely dangerous and should never be tried,
6.Power lines present in paragliding site should be avoided.
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