Are you a little nervous about trying paintball? We have pulled together some facts and information that should help put your mind at ease and allow you to enjoy your day at Holland Paintball Adventure Park!
Here are some statistics on paintball...
You have less of a chance of being injured playing paintball than you do golfing, boating, and even bowling! Statistic is based on all injuries requiring medical attention or causing the participant to lose at least 1 day of work. (Source: SGMA International)
In 2003, 9.8 million people played paintball and paintball has consistently been ranked among the top 5 extreme sports since 1996. (Source: American Sports Data)
What is paintball?
Paintball is more closely related to tag and dodge ball than to any other sport or activity. Paintball games last 10-20 minutes and have set objectives ranging from capture the flag to elimination of the other team (like in dodge ball). In all paintball games, a player is eliminated when they are “marked” by a paintball. Here are some common questions people have about the sport of paintball.
What is a paintball?
A paintball is a round, thin-skinned gelatin capsule with colored liquid inside it. Paintballs are similar to large round vitamin capsules or bath oil beads. The fill inside paintballs is non-toxic, non-caustic, water-soluble and biodegradable. It rinses out of clothing and off skin with mild soap and water and they are even edible, although we don’t recommend it!
What should I wear?
We suggest you wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing that cover as much exposed skin as possible. Hooded sweatshirts, sweat pants, and good running shoes with ankle support are suggested.
What extra things should I bring?
During the summer months always carry bug spray and sunscreen. Application of bug spray should be done before you play and will keep the pests off you while on our many courses. Avoid using bug spray near your goggles. It will damage goggle lenses and other plastic equipment. In the winter lip-balm and good warm gloves are a must. Remember, we are outdoors so dress for it.
Does getting shot with a paintball hurt?
William Shatner said it best when he said that "The sting of the paintball is part of the mystique of the ballgame. So, the kick of running and jumping, dodging the paintball goes right back to your childhood. And the competition of trying to make the points to win the overall thing is a rush." So, while getting "marked" by a paintball might sting a little, the sensation is similar to getting snapped by a rubber band and will usually go away in a couple seconds.
What kind of safety precautions do you take?
The most important safety precaution in the sport of paintball is the full face goggles. We require all participants to wear full-face mask system with ear protection. All visitors to Holland Paintball Adventure Park are also given a safety briefing every time they visit park. This briefing explains the important safety rules at the park, along with how to properly use the equipment and play the game.
