Could engaging in an extreme sport change your life?

In today’s hustle and bustle world, why would we want to add more stress to the equation?  Yet it seems that certain ‘stressful’ activities, such as engaging in an extreme sport, might be just what the doctor ordered!

In a study conducted by Brymer, Eric & Schweitzer, Robert (2013) of Queensland University the following positive conclusions were reached after studying a number of participants engaging in a variety of extreme sports:

“Participation in the face of the fear offers considerable benefits as participants note how the experience changes their life. Participants equated the feelings of fear as instigating deep positive feelings and changes in behaviour….Whereas fear is generally considered as a barrier to do things participants in the current study describe experiences during which they not only work through fear but fear opens a doorway to transcendence….Working through fear in an extreme situation empowers everyday life…Fear has been interpreted as a positive contribution to personal growth and the development of authenticity (Arnould & Price, 1993).”

What options are available to us as city dwellers though?

We decided to take a look at Acrobranch, an innovative concept that is causing both corporates and families to literally ‘take to the trees’ in South African city suburbs.  Acrobranch’s outdoor parks consist of ‘obstacle courses’ in the treetops up to 14 metres above the ground, during which time you will be securely harnessed in order to navigate the various courses consisting of walkways, Tarzan swings, crossings, bridges, acro-bungee and zip lines. 

This treetop experience originated in France where they have over 600 “parks” already and has been brought to South Africa by French expats, as a unique way for South Africans to experience the outdoors, get some exercise and at the same time, overcome their fears! 

We asked Valerie of Acrobranch how do people benefit from participating in an extreme activity such as navigating tree top obstacle courses? “It’s great for families or for companies who are looking for a team-builder with a difference.  It teaches people that stress doesn’t help you achieve things, it actually impedes you. These courses also require mental focus, which really takes your mind off everything else.  In order to move forward, teamwork is often required which requires trust.  “Some people are afraid to fall and for them, the best way to overcome their fear might very well be to miss a step and realise that they’ll just end up sitting comfortably in their harness if they do! It’s about facing your fears, and the sense of accomplishment once you have do.”

Acrobranch use special ‘clamping’ technology to ensure that no trees are damaged by the courses, and from time to time will readjust the clamps as the trees grow.  They currently have courses in Melrose Johannesburg, Centurion, Pretoria, Constantia and on the Garden Route.

The good news is whilst you will get some great exercise, you don’t have to be super fit. In fact they recently had a 90 year old who competently navigated the entire course without a moment’s hesitation.  They have a one hundred percent safety rating and there is no chance that you will fall as you are securely harnessed throughout the course.

Participating in activities such as these are hugely beneficial to us to manage our stress.  It has been proven that we need sunlight to produce serotonin, our feel good depression fighting hormone.  British scientists recently released data that indicates that we need to spend time in nature to boost our mental wellbeing.  Titled ‘eco-therapy’, the research has indicated not only mood lifting benefits but cancer and heart disease reductions too!

So whether you are going to take to the trees or pursue something less extreme such as go for a brisk walk, getting active in nature really does hold the key to reducing your stress. Besides, being chased around the block by a neighbour’s dog can regarded as an extreme sport after all!