## Where is the Birthplace of Bungee Jumping?
Bungee jumping is an extreme sport that involves jumping from a tall structure while attached to a long elastic cord. The cord stretches and rebounds, allowing the jumper to fall a long distance before being brought back up. Bungee jumping is a popular tourist attraction and has been practiced all over the world. But where did this thrilling activity originate?
### Vanuatu: The Birthplace of Bungee Jumping
The birthplace of bungee jumping is the remote Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. The indigenous people of Vanuatu have practiced a traditional ritual called “land diving” for centuries. Land diving involves jumping from a tall wooden tower with vines tied around one’s ankles. The vines stretch and break the jumper’s fall, allowing them to land safely on the ground.
In the 1970s, a group of British and New Zealand adventurers visited Vanuatu and witnessed the land diving ritual. They were inspired by the ritual and decided to adapt it into a commercial sport. In 1986, they organized the first commercial bungee jump from the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado, USA.
### Differences Between Land Diving and Bungee Jumping
While land diving and bungee jumping share some similarities, there are key differences between the two activities.
* **Jump height:** Land diving towers are typically much higher than bungee jumping platforms. Land divers jump from heights of up to 100 feet, while bungee jumpers typically jump from heights of 50 to 200 feet.
* **Cord material:** Land divers use vines, while bungee jumpers use elastic cords made of synthetic materials. Elastic cords are more durable and less likely to break than vines.
* **Jumping style:** Land divers jump with their feet first, while bungee jumpers jump head first. This difference in jumping style affects the way the jumper experiences the fall.
### Bungee Jumping Today
Bungee jumping has become a popular tourist attraction around the world. There are bungee jumping sites in over 50 countries, including the United States, Canada, Europe, and Asia. Bungee jumping has also been used for charity events and stunts.
Bungee jumping is a safe and exciting activity, but it is important to remember that it is not without risks. There have been a few cases of bungee jumpers being seriously injured or killed. It is important to follow all safety instructions and to jump from a reputable bungee jumping company.
### Conclusion
The birthplace of bungee jumping is the remote Pacific island nation of Vanuatu. The indigenous people of Vanuatu have practiced a traditional ritual called “land diving” for centuries. In the 1970s, a group of British and New Zealand adventurers visited Vanuatu and witnessed the land diving ritual. They were inspired by the ritual and decided to adapt it into a commercial sport. In 1986, they organized the first commercial bungee jump from the Royal Gorge Bridge in Colorado, USA. Today, bungee jumping is a popular tourist attraction around the world.