The Thrills and Fears of Roller Coaster Ride Experiences

Roller coasters are renowned for their thrilling sensation and adventurous spirit. Yet, for some, the excitement can turn into fear, leading to a memorable ride that worries them enough to avoid such attractions in the future. This article explores various experiences shared by individuals who found themselves uncomfortable on roller coasters.

First-Time Experiences and Fears

Recalling a particularly notable instance, a writer shares their reaction to the Thunder Mountain at Disneyland when they were around eight years old. Initially uninterested, the writer was coerced into going, only to experience a ride that left them disconcerted. The jerking sensation and the feeling of instability made them feel disoriented and unsafe. Although they acknowledge that they might have a different perspective as an adult, the fear and discomfort persist, causing them to avoid the ride now.

I remember that I hadnt been thrilled to go on it on the first place but kind of got pushed into it. I don’t remember much now about “why” I didnt like the ride other than it was too jerky I felt like I was going to fall out.

Fear Before and After Having a Child

Another writer shares their journey from being a coaster enthusiast to losing their enthusiasm post-birth. Having been a fan since childhood, they openly admit to experiencing an intense fear of coasters after the arrival of their daughter, significantly impacting their enjoyment.

Before I gave birth to my daughter I was a coaster fanatic. Sat on King da Ka in the front row. After my daughter was born I have sat on coasters but am so scared and dont enjoy it anymore.

Intense Fear and Physical Reactions

One individual shares a vivid experience of their first-ever ride on a roller coaster. The fear was so intense that they placed themselves in a physically compromising situation. When the ride reached its apex, they began to panic, feeling overwhelmed by the steep descent. Ultimately, the experience left them traumatized, leading to never sitting on a coaster again.

It stopped at the vweyntop and all I could see was the way down and it was almost vertical. As it was stopped it just rocked back and forth I was so scared that as it slowly began to descend I messed my pants in fear.

This physical reaction provides a clear illustration of the psychological impact that a roller coaster can have on an individual.

Rare but Devastating Incidents

Here is a specific incident that led one individual to avoid a coaster riding experience permanently. The use of non-safe latches on a ride led to a near-disaster and instilled a fear too great to overcome. Although not common, such incidents can have long-lasting effects.

I cannot recall what it was called but I was terrified. In this one would stand and a “clamshell” would close over ones torso. A big hinge over each shoulder then an itty bitty latch between the legs. Then it would pivot so one is lying in the straps across this frame and one would “fly” like superman… I have seen latches fail and wouldve loved a cotter pin to hold it closed.

Personal Discomfort and Safety Concerns

On the other hand, safety and comfort are the primary concerns for some. Certain personal injuries on coasters can result in a permanent avoidance of similar rides, as experienced by an individual who faced discomfort and injury while riding a coaster.

The roller coaster went on the outside of a 360° loop. Never again.

The only time I’ll decide to never ride a certain coaster ever again is if I have gotten hurt on that coaster. This has only happened with a couple coasters. 1 the Mystery Mine at Dollywood gave me a concussion from the seat back repeatedly hitting my head. 2 the The Legend at Holiday World in Indiana the seat dividers have a hole in them and the pressure on the turns will try to force your hip through that hole. Needless to say that really hurts! It left me with an awful bruise on my left hip and a pinched nerve in my right hand from trying to keep my hip off the divider.

Conclusion

While some people are drawn to the thrill and excitement of roller coasters, personal fears and negative experiences can instill a lasting aversion to such attractions. Whether based on fear, physical discomfort, or past injuries, the decision to avoid a roller coaster is a personal choice influenced by individual experiences and conditions.

For those who wish to experience the joy of roller coasters despite past traumas, seeking rides that prioritize safety and comfort, as well as choosing parks with excellent safety records, can help mitigate these fears.

Keywords: roller coaster, fear factor, first-time experience