Why do people put themselves through the torture of roller coasters?
Is it because of the joy they feel while hanging 100ft in the air or is it that they feel the need for the experience or are they just simply MAD! Personally, I'm a bit of a coaster hooligan, but not even I'm sure of why I go on them. You'd think waiting in the queue glaring up at the whizzing ride and watching people who have just been waddle to exit would be enough to send you there too. But for some reason, you just cannot resist its loops and drops. For some , amusement parks are for comedy, as they watch the horrified faces of people on rides, from behind the candy stand, not daring to set foot in the queue.
So what separates these two types of people, those who want a thrill and those whose don't?
It may be to do with a fear of heights or trauma. Some people do not like that feeling in their stomach. Here's the scientific explanation:
Adrenaline (epinephrine) is responsible for this sensation. Your adrenal glands squirt adrenaline into your system when you're excited, scared, or nervous.This adrenaline causes blood to be sent to your muscles, which means there is less blood in areas such as your stomach. This can cause the stomach to have small spasms in response to the decreased blood flow.It's all part of the nervous system's "fight or flight" response. Your body's getting ready to run or fight, and your muscles will need more blood to do this.
The adrenalin from the fear is said to be sent the pleasure part of our brains. Adrenaline is good for our bodies, and it gives out pleasurable feelings in our bodies. This makes us want to go back for more.
So now you know why the queue for rides like Pepsi Max and Colossus are out of control! I guess it's your choice whether you want to join in or not.
Rachel D
