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How to be a smart adventure sports lover

Owing to the risk involved, experts suggest certains factors to be kept in mind before venturing into adventure sports.

Adventure sports are unique in their adrenaline-inducing capabilities, owing to the thrill and 'risk' factor involved. However, a sports lover must venture into such extreme activities after being educated into the art of taking a 'calculated risk, say experts.
Research on your destination and associated safety measures: The success and failure of this industry comes down to one primary aspect and that is safety. One should do some primary research on the company providing their chosen activity before visiting, look up testimonials, ratings and should take appropriate measures. Ask questions about the safety practices followed, understand how disciplined is the organisation in the maintenance of the same.
The most important thing is to be mentally prepared and excited about the sport you are attempting. Ask yourself if you actually want to do it or is it just peer pressure. Go ahead only if you are confident.
Pack wisely and smartly for the trip: While going on for an adventure trip, one must pack efficiently and smartly. They should carry all the necessary trip accessories like water bottle, flashlight or torch, portable charger, sunglasses, sleeping bag sheet, medicines and some toiletries in their backpacks.
Loosen up: The whole point of adventure sports is to expand our horizon, shatter the glass ceiling we set for ourselves and step out of our comfort zones. Acknowledging this larger picture pushes one to truly embrace the experience and squeeze out every ounce of benefit and glory from that one exhilarating opportunity.
The fitness challenge: Understanding your fitness levels is important to get the maximum out of your adventure. Do not put your health at risk by trying something that you are clearly not capable of. Ensure you have got your medical tests done and consulted your doctor before attempting something you have never done before. The tests may vary depending on the nature of the activity you are planning to indulge in.
If you suffer from vertigo, acrophobia, asthma or any heart disease, refrain from attempting such sports. Make sure that you are in pink of health and in case of minor ailments, take your doctor's advice.
Get insured: Buy a travel insurance plan that will safeguard you and your loved ones in case of any unforeseen incidents during your adventure trip. Before buying a policy go through the details and consult an expert to see if the plans will cover the mishaps that could result from the sport you are going to attempt. There are many insurance options, however, choosing a suitable one is always a challenge.
Don't take pictures while doing the sport. It can be extremely dangerous. Focus on what you are there for and make the best out of it.
Gear: Perhaps the most obvious safety measure is to wear protective gear and equipment. Helmets, goggles, gloves, and padding are all designed for specific reasons. Each form of protective accessory has a purpose that makes it essential in every extreme sport. The gear must be in solid, working condition, and equipment needs to be used properly. Before you try any extreme sport, learn as much as you can about it. Gradually build your skill level at a slow pace. Seek medical help immediately if you or someone you are with is injured.
Understand Your Ability: If you watch extreme sports on television, keep in mind that the stunts are performed by professionals with years of practice. Although some things might appear easy, they should not be attempted by someone without the proper training and expert coaching. Children need to be aware that these stunts are dangerous and unsafe for them. One of the most common ways that people are hurt is by trying to perform something that is beyond their ability.
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