Extreme Sports and Youth Leisure Trends

Extremsport activities always involve the highest levels of risk.

The participation in educational activities among 16-17 year olds increased from 48% to 62% over the last decade.

Voluntary work participation among 16-17 year olds has decreased significantly in the past 10 years.

There has been a decrease in the number of 16-17 year olds spending time with friends daily.

Extreme sports are primarily conducted in rural areas and mountains only.

Young people from privileged backgrounds engage more in structured activities compared to those from less privileged backgrounds.

Bungee jumping is not considered an extreme sport.

The term 'Extremsport' refers to a globally recognized set of sports with standardized risk levels.

The term "Extremsport" is used subjectively, referring to sports with higher risk levels.
Examples include skiing on unsecured slopes, rock climbing without safety gear, bungee jumping, and free climbing.
Participants seek to push their limits and experience, not just the highest risk.
These activities can be pursued in various environments, like mountains, deserts, and even urban settings.
Many extreme sports have specific competitions or events.
A potential issue is an addiction to the risk and thrills, leading to risky behavior.

A study by the German Economic Institute shows a notable increase in youth participation in music, sports, and voluntary work over the past 10 years.
Between 16-17 year olds:
- Participation in educational activities increased from 48% to 62%.
- Music activities participation increased from 10% to 18%.
- Voluntary work significantly increased from 11% to 22%.
The study reveals a decrease in informal activities with friends among 16-17 year olds, dropping from 40% to 25%.
A notable trend is that young people from less privileged social backgrounds participate in structured, education-oriented activities far less than those with more financial resources.