Jumping off a bridge attached by your feet with an elastic cord might seem like a risky and utterly mad idea. It's no surprise how many people back out before taking the plunge. However, bungee jumping originates from ancient traditions that were actually quite meaningful.
The beginnings of this practice are attributed to a Pacific archipelago, particularly Pentecost Island. In these traditional lands, young men from the Vanuatu tribe practised bungee jumping, though it wasn't called that yet.
The reason was simple: the rite of passage to adulthood.
These boys had to demonstrate courage and worth to their tribe by leaping from a 25-metre tower with a vine tied around their ankles.
The practice's global emergence is credited to Alan John Hackett, a New Zealander who popularised the concept through his bungee jump from the Eiffel Tower in 1987.
Since then, countless thrill-seekers have decided to give it a go!
Today, this activity is open to anyone over 16 weighing more than 40kg. Minors will need parental consent.
It comes in many variations allowing all sorts of twists. You can jump from numerous jump sites - bridges, cliffs, cranes, or specially designed platforms. You can jump solo or tandem. There are even naked bungee jumps and acrobatic jumps...
The Risks
Bungee jumping taps into humanity's deepest fears - which is precisely why the adrenaline rush is so intense.
Vertigo or fear of heights are primal phobias hardwired into human consciousness, aware of our inability to defy gravity, just as the desire to fly is one of our most common dreams.
Fear is a natural reaction warning us of danger. However, feeling afraid doesn't necessarily mean there's actual risk.
For example, the number one fear in this activity is the cord snapping or breaking.
You should know that bungee jumping has one of the lowest accident rates among extreme sports. The explanation is simple:
Since becoming mainstream, strict regulations ensure equipment quality through rigorous regular testing, with cords replaced frequently. A cord rated for 1,500 jumps might be retired after 500 uses for maximum safety.
You'll typically be harnessed at both ankles and waist for redundancy.
Moreover, this activity requires no special skills or experience, minimising accidents from user error. You simply jump and live the moment fully.
The second common fear is cardiac arrest or physical injury: rest assured this hasn't occurred at professional jump centres. Choose a reputable venue, and you'll feel how the cord reaches maximum extension smoothly, with rebounds being both rapid and gentle.
But no statistics can erase fear entirely. Everyone feels it from the moment you decide to try this extraordinary experience until you actually jump. But once airborne, you'll only feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins.
Tips: Some advice before you jump
Don't overthink it when jumping. Your instructor can count you down if preferred - when it's time, just leap! Don't look down immediately and clear your mind to fully enjoy the experience.
Wear comfortable clothing, avoiding materials that might cause minor friction burns. Ask the team for advice when booking!
If you take the plunge, we'd love to hear your experiences and comments on our dedicated bungee jumping forum!
