Extreme Sports and Sports Psychology

What are extreme sports?

Extreme sports understand it, those sports, or leisure activities with some sports component, that carry a real or apparent danger by the severe or extreme conditions in which they practiced. This element of risk makes the psychological variable acquire a clear importance in the practice of these sports.

The famous adrenaline

One of the neurotransmitters that act at the brain level when practicing extreme sports is the great adrenaline. Adrenaline is a hormone produced by the adrenal (adrenal) glands in the presence of danger. It causes us to react instantaneously to that situation of risk, preparing our organism to face it activating all our vital functions. For example, an effect of the secretion of adrenaline is the acceleration of the heart rate since we need the maximum blood to bring more oxygen and nutrients to all organs; Or dilation of the pupils since we need the best possible vision to “see the danger”; Among many other effects.

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Euphoria and Endorphins

It is important to note that when we practice risk sports, the release of adrenaline produces a (momentary) state of happiness, maximum energy and ability to act. Then the person feels a pleasant sensation of relaxation thanks to the release of endorphins (cerebral neurotransmitters similar to the opiates in its analgesic effect and sense of well-being). This factor has given much to speak, and is the main idea of those who postulate the existence of risk addiction and adrenaline.

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Within the sports practices like surfing, we must distinguish the professional level and the amateur level. At the professional level would include athletes who dedicated to the competition itself and the free surfers. It is important to distinguish amateur professionals about their skills and abilities not only in their physiognomy and their sports technicians but also in mastering the psychological aspects associated with it. The primary psychological factor in the practice of extreme sports is the management of attention and concentration. Professionals train their attention and focus as a way to prevent injuries and optimize their performance.

Attention and concentration

How many times have you not used your skateboard to disconnect from problems and have a moment of enjoyment? And what about those last minute baths after a long day of work, where do you need to get rid of the stress of the day? Or after an argument with your partner? Although the well-being that generates the adrenaline discharge, may seem the best plan to face these situations, the fact is that if we look at it from injury prevention, it would not be so suitable. Attention and concentration are capabilities of our brain. They are vulnerable to fatigue, fatigue, and physical exhaustion. A tired, fatigued mind or thoughts centered on a concern (economic, labor, couple problem), reduces your ability to be focused and targeted on sports performance.