Updated on March 13th, 2023 at 09:02 pm
If you aren’t afraid of heights, you may look at zip lining as a fun way to observe the environment or as a fun adventure sport. But if you’re a larger person, you might have your own concerns about going on a zip line.
After all, you have to put on a helmet and a harness, and regardless of your weight, you can’t help but wonder if the zip line can hold you. So, what do you need to know before you step onto the platform?
What Is the Weight Limit to Zipline?
There are often various restrictions in place for activities such as zip lining. There may be age limits and weight restrictions. So, it’s important that before you head to the platform, you know what sort of weight limits the course has.
As a general rule, most riders need to have a minimum weight of 60 pounds and a max weight of 275 pounds. But you should also note that some courses may measure your waist circumference too.
The reason that zip line rides have weight restrictions is to protect the riders. A light rider who doesn’t hit the minimum weight may stop in the middle of the zip line, while a heavy rider above the maximum weight may hit the landing platform too quickly.
Why Do Zip Lines Have A Weight Limit?
Truthfully, you don’t have to worry about whether the zip line will hold you. After all, they can also be used to transport items from a distance. Instead, you need to make sure you can maintain the speed you want to travel at.
Previously, I mentioned what could happen if a rider is too light or heavy.
The weight limits are there for a reason, as they are there for health and safety reasons, just like weight limits for horseback riding or the parasailing weight limit. Although it can be embarrassing or disappointing to be told you aren’t in the range, listening is always better.
If you go too fast, your traveling speed will increase. Due to that, many courses will weigh you so that they know you’re not too light or not too heavy.
Even if you think that a zip line will be able to hold you, you should always listen to the professionals in charge. After all, they’re not there to shame you but just to ensure you stay safe while you’re on a fun day out.
How Tall Do You Have To Be to Go On Zip Line Tours?
Age restrictions and weight restrictions exist for a reason, and because of that, there are also height restrictions. Zip lining professionals want to ensure everyone’s safety as you travel at fast speeds and from a significant height.
So, they need to ensure you can fit the safety gear provided. Due to this, they place height restrictions based on these factors.
Depending on where you go, height restrictions can vary. Some places suggest that you need to be at least 120 centimeters tall. While other places recommend that you are at least four feet and eight inches tall.
It’s always important that you check the restrictions in place. You may find that you can find these out on the website or by contacting the customer service team for the tour that you’re going on.
What Kind Of Shape Do You Have To Be In For A Zip Line Tour?
Even a larger person can enjoy zip lining if you meet the weight requirement. As long as you’re in good physical condition, it doesn’t matter how fit you are. You don’t need a lot of upper body strength, as your harness supports you.
While you may experience some discomfort in your ankles and knees from the physical activity of stretching from the line to the landing platform. However, your guide will be happy to assist you, as it’s a challenge for everyone.
The course you want to go on should caution you on the kind of medical conditions preventing you from enjoying the ride. Overall, the main aspect you should consider is if you have a fear of heights.
Should you have some medical conditions and a fear of heights, it might be better to find an activity more suitable for you, or you won’t have fun, regardless of your body shape.
If you want to know what medical conditions will prevent you from enjoying the zip-lining course, then you should check the website for your course. Overall, they recommend that you shouldn’t take the risk if you have a heart condition or neck or spinal injuries.
What Sort Of Clothes Should You Wear?
Due to the amount of walking required, the most important thing to remember is to wear the right shoes. Make sure you wear some close-toed shoes, such as sneakers or hiking boots, as sandals will fall off during the ride.
When you’re thinking about what you need to wear, you should wear some long shorts or pants, as you might experience some discomfort otherwise. Light and breathable clothes are ideal, as you will need to wear a full-body harness over your clothes.
Wearing the wrong clothes can get you tangled up.
You shouldn’t wear any loose articles of clothing, like scarves or hats, as you’ll probably lose them. However, you should also dress for the weather. A light jacket or a raincoat can be a great way to keep yourself dry and warm, and they’re easy to remove throughout the day if it gets hotter.
Final Thoughts
Even if you’re a larger person, there’s no reason that you can’t enjoy ziplining. All you need to do is ensure that you’re within the limits and that you don’t have any medical conditions that may affect you.
After all, it doesn’t matter your body shape or size when you’re on a zip line, as you recognize how small you are when you view the fantastic sights from above. So strap into your harness and have a great day out on this adventure activity. Just remember to dress correctly for the line! Find more interesting articles on Extra Large Living.