Sensation of Riding Roller Coasters
Enjoying roller coasters is linked to sensation seeking-the tendency to enjoy varied, novel and intense physical experiences such as rock climbing and parachute jumping. Research has shown that the release of endorphins during a roller coaster ride can also contribute to the pleasurable sensations experienced by riders. Endorphins are natural painkillers produced by the body, and they can create a sense of well-being and relaxation. Our fight or flight response is activated which signals the rush of adrenaline. Those who are in favor of roller coasters tend to experience joy, happiness, excitement, and satisfaction as this is what they wanted to feel. Therefore, the psychological effect is positive.
Roller Coaster Mechanics and Forces
The highest g-force which can be experienced on a roller coaster today is 6.3 g on Tower of Terror at Gold Reef City in South Africa. Roller coasters rely on gravity which can have some interesting physical effects on the body. The typical human body can withstand around 5Gs, but at these levels the brain is deprived of blood and oxygen, sometimes leading to lightheadedness, vision loss, or momentary blackouts. Several forces are felt when riding a coaster, and keeping these values within safe limits is a vital skill for coaster designers. These forces are known as G-Forces or “G’s”.
Multi-Sensory Experience of Riding Roller Coasters
Riding a roller coaster is something of a multi-sensory experience: from start to finish, you’re assaulted with screams, music and mechanical sounds, vibrations and aggressive movements, and bright colors and lights. But the thing about most of our senses is that they’re largely pointed outward at the world, not inward. Blood rushes to your feet. For anyone who harbors unfulfilled dreams of being a fighter pilot, then riding a roller coaster might be one the closest approximations, and that’s because of the G forces.
Roller Coaster Sensations Explained
When you go down a steep incline on a roller coaster, or quickly climb a hill, you’ll feel weightless. This feeling is called air time. Repetition is the way to completely eliminate fear and learn to love riding roller coasters. Once you’ve ridden a ride enough times to feel comfortable with it, we suggest moving on to a new ride and trying a new roller coaster. Keep doing this until you’ve progressed to the big rides!
Safety Tips and Enjoyment of Roller Coasters
Tips: Smile even if you have to force it. Roller coaster designers make sure to create plenty of tight fits and near misses to make you feel like you’re rocketing through the structure at out-of-control speeds. One of the most exciting elements in modern coasters is the loop-the-loop. These structures turn the whole world upside down for a few seconds.