A guide to health and safety in extreme sports: what you need to know

It’s safe to say that Extreme sports are not for the fainthearted among us. Despite the obvious dangers involved however, health and safety regulations still need to be obeyed at all times, regardless of danger level or particular sport. Whether it’s Volcano boarding or Xpogo, extreme sports still require that you adhere to set out rules. In this article, compiled with dealers of the new Renault Megane, Lookers, we explore a selection of the most treacherous extreme sports and the rules in place to ensure the safety of all those that take part.

Air Kicking

Another sport brought to you by Red Bull. Air-kicking was invented by German stuntman Jochen Schwiezer. It involves participants being catapulted into the air, flying more then 25ft before landing in a pool of water or a foam pit – safety at its finest! This is not one to take part in if you have any joint injuries.

Creeking

When we head on holiday, we sometimes like to go kayaking. Creeking, on the other hand, is whitewater kayaking to the limit. In the 1980s, with the introduction of more durable kayaks, daredevils thought they’d attempt to take the plunge off high waterfalls. The adrenaline rush is increased due to the fact you don’t know if you’re going to hit off a jagged rock or be sucked beneath the water. To try to limit any potential injury, it’s vital you wear safety equipment, including life jackets and a helmet.

Le Mans 24-hour race

Known as the Grand Prix of endurance and efficiency, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, running since 1923, is held annually and is the world’s oldest active car race. However, it is also a very dangerous race, with 22 drivers having lost their lives over the years while competing. While battling a tough course, drivers must also battle fatigue. To make it slightly safer, each team has three drivers who each steer for a total of eight hours across stints of up to two hours. However, sleep is still limited, meaning it’s often tough to stay focused.

Volcano boarding

For this one, Red Bull have headed to Nicaragua. Riders must hike to the summit of the volcano, with Cerro Negro very popular. Then, they simply slide down – sitting or sliding – on ply wood with a thing metal board underneath. Hitting speeds of 30mph adds another reason to why this sport simply isn’t for the fainthearted. There’s a rope attached to your board for stability, while riders are given a one-piece suit for protection if they crash. Protective goggles and leather gloves are also provided.

Xpogo

We all had a pogo stick as a child, right? Well, imagine that activity but hyper charged! Extreme pogo involves competitors showing off new skills and tricks as you’d expect on a BMX. Jumpers can reach heights of nine feet, making this sport extremely dangerous. To try to limit injury, those who partake are required to wear a safety helmet. If you’re looking to join a stunt team, you’ll also be required to undergo a medical and be signed off as being fit and healthy.

All extreme sports

No matter what extreme sport you take part in, it’s crucial that you warm up sufficiently. Any cold muscles are more susceptible to injury, so be sure to do some light exercise for approximately five minutes before gently stretching any muscles that are to be exercised. It’s also essential that you don’t try to imitate stunts that you might have seen on television, as these people are professionals! And, whatever you do, do not participate in an extreme sport alone. You should always have a partner who can assist you in the event you are injured.

Do you think you’re going to add an extra bit of excitement into your life? Always be wary of any extreme sports and take care to avoid injury wherever possible.