Why is zorbing the unusual activity to absolutely try during your next vacation?
zorb ballHave you ever wondered what pleasure can a hamster find running in its wheel? To find the answer, you have to have a strong heart and live the extraordinary experience of zorbing.
What is zorbing?
The starting point for zorbing is a sphere that was created in 1973 by French architect Gilles Ebersolt . It resurfaced in 1990 on the other side of the world: in New Zealand (more precisely in the town of Roturia, on the north coast of the island) through a sport: zorbing. This activity is gradually attracting a growing number of enthusiasts all over the world. As if to confirm his nascent success, in 1990 Jackie Chan used the zorb ball to slide down a hill in the film “Operation Condor”.
In order to allow its passenger to make the descents in complete safety, the zorb ball is made up of two transparent plastic balls. The dimension of the external envelope varies between 2.5 and 4 meters, it is this which comes into contact with the outside, whether it is grass, snow or water. An air mattress of about 70 cm separates it from the small interior sphere intended to accommodate one or more passengers. An airlock allows the "zorbonaute" to access it. Passenger safety is ensured by this air mattress and by the use of PVC or TPU materials.
A literally stunning sport, zorbing (or ball) can be practiced in two ways:
“harnessing”: you are attached inside the sphere and you undergo all its rotational movements, as if you were in the drum of a washing machine.
“the hydrozorb”: you can move, run or jump inside the bubble, without any harness. To avoid injury, there is a certain level of water at the bottom of the sphere which allows you to slide like in a toboggan.
Why learn this sport?
The practice of the ball allows you to experience intense moments and unique sensations for various reasons:
The transparency of the plastic that forms the bubble makes it possible to appreciate the exterior landscape in a different way, which passes by at an incredible speed.
This activity improves the coordination of movements and promotes the development of muscles.
Some amateurs find pleasure in recording their descent using an on-board camera and sharing their experience via YouTube. The result is often impressive and it is also a way of introducing this sport to new enthusiasts. Here is a video shot in New Zealand that presents the different ways to practice zorbing. Disappointing, isn't it?
Zorbing is a trending activity that is growing in popularity day by day. It is often considered an extreme sport like bungee jumping or skydiving, but as the equipment used has continued to evolve, it has become a safe and risk-free recreational sport. There are also many variations, such as the hamsterball, which is very popular with children and families.
Where to practice this sport in France?
If the practice of rolling bubble has become common in New Zealand, Sweden, the United States or Thailand, it is still in its infancy in France. There are certain sites in Île-de-France , Burgundy and the Tarn where you can get your fill of thrills with friends or family, for a reasonable price.
For the moment, this sport mainly attracts companies who do not hesitate to use it in team building activities, in particular through the Hamsterball or Aquazob versions.
A real thrilling sport, zorbing is gaining popularity in France and the sites that offer it are set to multiply in the coming years. Thanks to ever more efficient equipment, this activity is aimed at both the adventurous and the simply curious.
And you, would you be ready to practice zorbing?
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