The spelling of "base jumping" is unique due to the combination of letters used in the word. The "b" sound is represented by the letter "b," the "a" sound is represented by the letter "a," while the "s" sound is represented by the letter "s" which make up the first three letters of the word. The "e" sound is represented by the letter "e," while the "j" sound is represented by the letters "j" and the letter "m" can be used to represent the "p" sound. The word is pronounced /beɪs ˈdʒʌmpɪŋ/.
Base jumping is an extreme sport that involves freefalling from a fixed structure or a BASE (Building, Antenna, Span, or Earth) object, such as a cliff, bridge, or tall building, before using a parachute to slow down the descent and safely land on the ground or nearby designated area. This form of parachuting is characterized by its low altitude jumps and short duration of freefall.
The term "base jumping" is derived from the acronym BASE, which represents the four categories of objects that participants jump from. These objects are carefully chosen for their height and accessibility, allowing base jumpers to experience an adrenaline-fueled rush as they leap into the void and accelerate towards the ground at high speeds.
Base jumping offers an unparalleled sensation of flight and adrenaline as the jumper plummets through the air, experiencing a brief but exhilarating freefall before deploying the parachute. The sport demands a high level of skill, physical fitness, and extensive knowledge of parachuting techniques, as the short duration of freefall and proximity to structures require quick decision making and precise control of the parachute.
Due to the inherent risks involved, base jumping is considered an extreme sport and is generally not legally permitted in most areas. It is paramount for participants to conduct thorough planning and assessment of the jump site, including potential hazards and legal implications. Safety precautions such as proper selection and maintenance of equipment, accurate weather monitoring, and thorough training are imperative to minimize the risks associated with base jumping.
The term "base jumping" is derived from the acronym "BASE", which stands for the four types of fixed structures from which this extreme sport is commonly performed. Each letter represents a different category:
- B: Building
- A: Antenna (including towers)
- S: Span (bridges, arches, and similar structures)
- E: Earth (specifically cliffs and other natural formations)
"BASE jumping" was coined to describe the act of parachuting or wingsuit flying from these fixed objects. The term itself became recognized in the 1970s when this style of extreme sport gained popularity among thrill-seekers.