Modern BMX riding involves dangerous aerial maneuvers. BMX riders often wear safety equipment to protect against serious injury. Designated BMX parks often have strict rules regarding the use safety gear. BMX training facilities feature a safety device known as a foam pit. The foam pit allows you to land onto cushioned pads. Attempt new tricks into the foam pit before taking them to the streets.
History
As the sport of BMX has continued to grow since the 1980s, so have the difficulty of the tricks. Many extreme sports competitions showcase BMX trick riding as one of the premier events. A popular extreme sports contest, known as the X Games, includes BMX half pipe and dirt jumping competitions. According to "Time" magazine, the stunts and tricks performed in the X Games are extremely dangerous and could result in career ending injuries. Even professional BMX riders wear safety equipment to protect themselves against unsuccessful trick attempts.
Types
Utilize a few types of equipment to ensure you remain safe on your BMX bike. A BMX helmet remains a vital pieces of equipment to wear, while performing even the most simple of riding maneuvers. A type of helmet, known as the bowl helmet, protects your skull with a hard plastic material. A common BMX injury involves your feet sliding off the metallic pedals. To protect against knee scrapes, wear a pad of lightweight knee pads. According to Vital BMX, modern knee pad designs allow you to comfortably wear your pads under a pair of pants.
Features
The BMX bike often features a safety device known as a handbrake system. The handbrakes enable you to slow the momentum of your BMX by squeezing on a lever. The handbrake, also commonly referred to as a rim brake, squeezes the rim of your back tire. According to bike expert Sheldon Brown, the rim brake slows your bike with two small devices known as the brake shoes. The BMX brake shoes often have a rubber construction.
Function
BMX bikers often attempt to catch themselves when falling onto the riding surface. BMX gloves serve the function of protecting your hands against rough pavement or rock dirt trails. Wearing gloves also acts as another safety function. When riding in warm temperatures, perspiration can hinder your ability to hold onto your handlebar grips. Wear a pair of gloves to maintain control of your BMX. Elbow pads function to protect against bruising and painful broken bones.
Prevention/Solution
One of the easiest ways to remain safe on your BMX involves riding within your own ability. Progression remains a natural part of any sport. However, you are recommended to wear full pads, including a helmet, elbow and knee pads, when riding on new terrain. To prevent injury, utilize a foam pit when attempting dangerous tricks involving flips and spins.
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