The Benefits of Extreme Sports in Boarding Schools

As extreme sports have become increasingly popular so have reported incidents of injury or death as a result. Extreme sports are often associated with recklessness and danger as they involve high levels of speed, height or specialized equipment. Yet, considering the dangers connected with extreme sports, why are more boarding high schools sponsoring extreme sports, such as rodeo, surfing or skateboarding in an educational setting? 

Traditional Sports Versus Extreme Sports

Many of the benefits associated with more traditional, organized sports are still available to extreme sports athletes. Participating in extreme sports can offer the same level of camaraderie that is found in traditional sport. Forms of extreme sports can integrate a team aspect, encouraging teamwork and participation. 

Much like traditional team sports, extreme sports also require athleticism and exercise. Extreme sports are a great way for boarding high school students to release stress, have fun and maintain a healthy lifestyle at boarding high schools.

How Extreme Sports Work in Schools

Most of the most common struggles identified with academic success in high school students involve lack of focus and other mental health issues, such as anxiety. Extreme sports require intense focus and determination. Finding success in extreme sports can translate to the classroom, encouraging students to apply the same level of focus and determination to succeed in school.

Increasing expectations surrounding grades, test scores and other extra-curricular activities are forcing students to operate under high levels of stress and anxiety. These stressors are detrimental to the education of students. Extreme sports athletes experience lower levels of anxiety and stress and encourage independence. Students need some sort of release from the rigors of an education, and extreme sports are a great option.

By nature, extreme sports are more dangerous, and participation in extreme sports at a high school level should be accompanied by a high level of supervision. Yet, the benefits of participation in extreme sports in public and boarding high schools can equate to greater levels of independence and academic success.