Subway Surfing NYC: Not Quite Like Kelly Slater Catching a Wave (and Way More Dangerous)
Ah, New York City. The Big Apple. The city that never sleeps (except maybe on a particularly boring Tuesday night). It's a place where dreams are chased, Broadway stars are born, and...people hang out on top of moving trains?
Yes, folks, we're talking about the thrilling (and highly illegal) world of subway surfing. Now, before you grab your wetsuit and head to the nearest subway station, let's clear a few things up. This ain't your grandpappy's surfing competition.
What it ACTUALLY is: Darwin Award Contender
Subway surfing is exactly what it sounds like, minus the sunshine and ocean breeze. Here's the lowdown: some daring (or perhaps foolhardy) individuals decide to ride on the outside of a moving subway train. Think of it as extreme public transportation, minus the safety features and with a whole lot more chance of ending very, very badly.
Fun fact: The MTA (Metropolitan Transportation Authority) frowns upon this activity. They, along with a good chunk of the city's population, would prefer you stay firmly inside the train, like a civilized human being.
Why Do People Do It? (Don't Try This At Home, Folks)
The reasons for subway surfing vary. Maybe it's a misguided attempt to impress someone (although witnessing someone potentially electrocute themselves probably isn't the best aphrodisiac). Maybe it's the allure of internet fame (because what screams "likes" more than a shaky video shot from the top of a moving train?).
Whatever the reason, it's important to remember this: it. is. incredibly. dangerous. We're talking high voltage wires, slippery tracks, and the potential for a very unpleasant rendezvous with a speeding bus.
The Downside of Messing With Subway Currents (It's Shocking)
Let's be honest, the only thrills you're likely to get from subway surfing are the chills of fear and the sting of potential electrocution. The MTA takes its power grid seriously, and contact with the third rail (those electrified tracks) can result in serious injury or even death.
Not to mention the possibility of falling and getting tangled with the train, or worse, landing on the tracks in front of an oncoming train. Not exactly a recipe for a viral video and social media fame.
So You Want to Be a Subway Surfer? (Here's What You REALLY Get)
Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect from a thrilling evening of subway surfing:
- A heart rate that rivals a hummingbird on Red Bull.
- A stern talking-to from the NYPD (if you're lucky enough to avoid a more serious consequence).
- The potential to become a cautionary tale on the local news.
Looking for a more productive way to spend your afternoon? Here are some ideas:
- Try a spin class - it'll give you that adrenaline rush without the risk of electrocution.
- Channel your inner artist and paint a mural (on a designated wall, of course).
- Fold some origami - it's calming and way more impressive than a blurry video from atop a train.
The Final Word: Ditch the Death Wish, Take the Subway (Safely)
Look, New York City is full of adventure. You can explore hidden parks, catch a free concert in the park, or get lost in a world-class museum. There are a million ways to experience the city's energy without risking your life on a moving metal box.
So ditch the subway surfing and embrace the (much safer) wonders of NYC. Your future self (and the MTA) will thank you for it.
