Who would have thought that the sports we watch during the Olympics could be dangerous? From curling to luge, all of these sports have a certain risk factor that you don’t see on television. As an 18 year old student, I’m here to tell you about 5 Olympic sports that are surprisingly dangerous and why you should watch out for yourself. From the high speeds of luge to the sharp blades of figure skating, each of these sports have their own hidden risks – and this article will dive into them. Keep reading to learn more!
Alpine Skiing
Alpine skiing is a popular Olympic sport and a great way to get some exercise. But it’s also one of the most dangerous sports in the Winter Olympics. Even with helmets, skiers can suffer serious injuries from high-speed falls or crashes into obstacles. And the risks are even higher when skiing on difficult slopes or in difficult weather conditions. As a result, the International Ski Federation (FIS) has strict rules in place to ensure skiers’ safety. But even with these rules in place, injuries are still common in alpine skiing, making it one of the most dangerous Olympic sports.
Skeleton
Skeleton is one of the most dangerous Olympic sports. It involves hurtling down an icy track face-first on a tiny sled at speeds of up to 90 mph. The sport requires a high level of physical fitness and mental focus, as one misstep could lead to serious injury. Skeleton also requires athletes to have a high pain threshold, as crashes can cause severe bruising and broken bones. As such, it’s important for athletes to have an experienced trainer who can help them develop the physical and mental skills necessary to compete in this high-stakes sport.
Bobsled
Bobsledding is often thought to be a relatively safe Olympic sport, but it can be surprisingly dangerous. Bobsledding requires athletes to navigate a track of ice at up to 120 kilometers per hour, making it one of the fastest winter sports. The track is full of twists and turns, which can make it difficult to control the bobsled. In addition, the athletes run the risk of crashing into walls, other bobsleds, and even spectators if they are not careful. In some cases, the high speeds and potential for hard impacts have resulted in serious injuries or even fatalities. Despite these risks, bobsledding remains a popular and exciting Olympic sport.
Luge
Luge is a thrilling and fast-paced Winter Olympic sport, but it’s surprisingly dangerous too. Competitors ride a small sled on a steep, ever-changing icy track, reaching speeds of up to 140km/h. Despite the safety measures put in place, such as helmets and protective pads, luge athletes are still risking their lives with every run. One of the most famous accidents happened in the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games, when the Georgian athlete Nodar Kumaritashvili tragically lost his life while training. Furthermore, even minor mistakes can result in serious injuries, such as broken bones and concussions. With its risks, luge can be a dangerous sport, but it certainly offers an adrenaline-filled Olympic experience.
Ski Jumping
Ski jumping is one of the most exciting Olympic sports. It is also surprisingly dangerous. This sport requires a lot of skill and precision, as even the slightest mistake can have catastrophic consequences. Ski jumpers reach speeds of up to 60 miles per hour and can fly up to 250 yards in the air. The danger comes from the fact that if the skier does not land correctly, they can suffer serious injuries or even death. The best ski jumpers in the world regularly train and practice to perfect their technique and minimize the risk of injury. It takes a lot of courage and determination to become a successful ski jumper, which is why it remains one of the most thrilling Olympic sports.