How to Tell Bobsledding From the Luge

<p>There is a misconception that luge and bobsledding are actually the same sport. In reality, while the two winter sports are quite similar, there are some significant differences that you must take into account.</p><p>First, the similarities. Both luge and bobsledding are featured as events in the winter Olympics. Both of these sports involve plunging feet first down an icy track and are extremely dangerous for the participants. They also both require a great deal of nerve and extremely quick reflexes. This however, is basically where the similarities end.</p><p>The first difference is in the number of participants. Lugers are generally working alone of with a partner where as bobsledders can work in teams of up to four people. Since bobsledding is a team effort, the members of the team must learn to function as one. At top speed, bobsledders find themselves traveling at one hundred kilometers per hour. If they are not perfectly in sync, it could spell disaster. As a luger, you dont have to worry about coordination, so you can spend more time improving their position and learning how to handle difficult turns.</p><p>Next, the type of equipment used is drastically different. A luge is a small piece of equipment, approximately the size of a few skateboards. This does not provide barely any protection in case of an accident. The tiny surface protects them from the friction on the track but there entire body is vulnerable in a crash. A bobsled however is shaped like a canoe with a larger opening. The front and sides of the bobsled do offer a bit of protection from the elements and in case of a crash. The bobsled is also designed to absorb a small amount of the impact in case of collision.</p><p>Lastly, while safety is an issue with bobsledding as well, as a luger, it is imperative that you learn how to protect yourself in case of a crash. Because they travel at such incredibly fast speeds, a luger needs to be able to make lightening fast decisions in order react properly to an issue. This can mean the difference between walking away from a crash and having to be carried away.</p><p>While there are significant differences between luge and bobsledding, both can be a wonderfully entertaining sport to watch or participate in. Knowing more about each sport can help you make an educated decision as to which one you would prefer.</p><p>Sydney Garrison is an avid cyclist and sports enthusiast. She is also a partner in an online <a target="_new" href="http://www.bikecarrierdirect.com" rel="nofollow">bike carrier</a> store.</p>