Some experts in the history of extreme sports may have gained popularity in the late 20th century as a reaction to the increased safety of modern life.  However in the 21st century living in a metropolitan city such as Washington, DC or driving on interstate highways or crossing a busy street could nix that idea.  Anyway lacking a feeling of danger in everyday life, some people seek out danger and risk.

In the hisory of extreme sports enhanced sports technology may have added to its popularity. The invention of sticky rubber-soled climbing shoes and arificial climbing walls has increased the appeal of rock climbing. Improved ski design has allowed more skiiers to do dare-devil stunts that were previously thought not to be possible.

Extreme sports and stunts in the movies and on tv, by such cult heros as Bam Margera and Tony Hawk, have been credited with their increased popularity also. The history of extreme sports has the  "X Games" and the Olympics are only two examples. Athletes of this genre, pride themselves in constantly searching for new adventures to test themselves. This enables the continuing development of even newer extreme sports.

Individual creativity in the creation of new maneuvers and the embellished execution of existing techniques are allowed and encouraged. The experienced enthusiasts must know their own physcal capabilities and understand how they can block the natural instinct of fear. There is also the physical limitation of the equipment, the experience in the activity they already have which they are taking to an extreme level.  Most importantly is the knowledge of what to do in an emergency.

The history of extreme sports will continue to grow as long as there are creative and adventuresome athletes.