Some people think that extreme sports help build character whereas others think it’s a bad idea.

I think that extreme sports definitely help build character. First of all, extreme sports help develop qualities such as discipline, persistence and focus. Second, they teach a person to overcome fear, build confidence and mental strength. The reason why extreme sports are better at it than other sports is because the price of an error in extreme sports is very high. One has to stay focused and be athletic in order to make as few mistakes as possible, and that requires discipline in training and all those other qualities.

At the same time there’re people who believe that extreme sports are above all dangerous. One can start doing boxing and get a concussion, or fall off a cliff while climbing a rock. Also such sports can be addictive. One may become an adrenaline junkie who would do anything just to get that rush, and sometimes that can lead to serious injuries.

In my opinion these people have a point. Extreme sports are definitely dangerous and they can be addictive. However, I believe that if one is smart about doing them, in most cases he can avoid serious injuries. The risk still remains, of course, and it’s up to anyone whether they want to do extreme sports or not. But there’s one thing that’s certain – they do help build character.

In conclusion, I'd like to say that extreme sports are surely dangerous. At the same time, they’re one of the best ways I know that can help one develop a very strong character.