Defining extreme sport: Conceptions and misconceptions

Abstract

One feature of how sport is defined is the distinction between extreme and non-extreme sport. BASE jumping is an example of an "extreme sport" because it involves a high degree of risk, whilst swimming is classified as "non-extreme" because the risks involved are minimal. This broad definition falls short of identifying the extent of risk and ignores the psychological, social-demographic and life style variables associated with engagement in each sport.