1. A Rollercoaster Could Shake Out Kidney Stones
At Daily Fetch of course we are NOT doctors, and while we try to be as accurate as possible we advise that you speak with professionals and do not rely just on this story for accuracy. That said….
Believe it or not, researchers discovered that certain rollercoasters might help people pass small kidney stones. A 2016 study at Walt Disney World’s Big Thunder Mountain found that riders, especially those sitting in the back, had a higher chance of dislodging stones due to the vibrations and jolts. While it’s not a medical treatment, doctors noted that some patients passed stones painlessly after enjoying a ride. The idea that fun and medicine can overlap is both surprising and encouraging, it shows that our bodies sometimes respond positively to unusual stimuli. For people prone to kidney stones, this quirky benefit might be a reason to enjoy a thrill ride, though of course, it’s no substitute for professional medical care.
2. Screaming Relieves Stress
That high-pitched scream you let out on a rollercoaster or drop tower isn’t just for show, it can actually help reduce stress. Psychologists explain that shouting releases tension and lowers cortisol, the hormone linked to stress. Think of it as a natural emotional detox: when you yell at the top of your lungs, your body gets a chance to let go of pent-up frustration and anxiety. Some even compare it to the benefits of primal scream therapy, only with far more fun attached. So the next time you’re plunging down a 200-foot drop, don’t hold back. Your body and mind will thank you for letting it all out.
3. Laughter Boosts Immune Function
Amusement parks are packed with moments that spark laughter, whether it’s seeing your friend’s face on a haunted ride photo or giggling through a dizzying teacup spin. Beyond the fun, laughter has been shown to stimulate immune cells and infection-fighting antibodies. Studies suggest that frequent, genuine laughter boosts overall immune defense, helping the body ward off illnesses more effectively. It’s a reminder that joy isn’t just emotional, it’s physical, too. Spending a day at the park, where laughter comes easily and often, gives your immune system a workout without you even noticing. In that sense, the fun and games carry lasting health perks long after the rides stop.
4. Walking Improves Heart Health
What feels like a casual stroll from one ride to the next often adds up to a serious amount of walking. Visitors at large amusement parks can easily hit 10,000 steps, or even double that, in a single day. All this movement boosts circulation, strengthens the heart, and helps regulate blood pressure. Since walking is one of the simplest forms of cardiovascular exercise, a day at the park turns into a workout disguised as fun. Unlike the treadmill at the gym, you’re distracted by attractions, food stands, and shows, so the effort feels effortless. In the end, your body gets the benefit of sustained activity while your mind stays focused on the excitement around you.
5. Facing Fears Builds Resilience
For many, amusement parks mean confronting fears, whether it’s heights, speed, or the unknown lurking in a haunted house. Tackling these challenges can actually build mental resilience. Psychologists say facing fears in a controlled, safe environment teaches the brain how to manage stress and regulate emotions more effectively. Overcoming the rush of standing in line, stepping into the ride, and finally experiencing it can translate into greater confidence outside the park. Each victory, no matter how small, reinforces your ability to adapt and persevere in stressful situations. That sense of accomplishment lingers long after you’ve stepped off the ride.
6. Social Bonding Boosts Mental Health
Amusement parks are rarely solo adventures. Whether with friends, family, or even coworkers, the shared experiences of riding rollercoasters, trying snacks, or winning a stuffed animal create strong bonds. Research shows that positive social connections improve mental health by reducing feelings of isolation and enhancing life satisfaction. Laughter, teamwork on games, or simply recounting the day’s highlights later can strengthen relationships and provide long-lasting emotional benefits. These shared memories become stories retold for years, reinforcing the joy and closeness that come from spending quality time together. In short, amusement parks aren’t just about rides, they’re about connection.
7. Sunshine Provides Vitamin D
A day outdoors at an amusement park gives you more than thrills, it gives your body a natural boost of vitamin D. Exposure to sunlight helps your skin produce this essential nutrient, which supports strong bones, regulates mood, and strengthens immunity. Even short bursts of sunshine between rides can make a difference. Of course, sunscreen is important to protect against too much exposure, but balanced time in the sun ensures you’re getting what your body needs. Instead of being cooped up indoors, spending time in open-air spaces like parks combines fun with a subtle yet powerful health benefit.
8. Playfulness Stimulates the Brain
Acting silly, trying new experiences, and immersing yourself in playful activities at an amusement park help keep the brain sharp. Neuroscientists call this “neuroplasticity”, the brain’s ability to form new connections and stay adaptable. When you laugh, engage in creative play, or step outside your comfort zone, your brain benefits in ways similar to learning a new skill. That means spinning in teacups or wearing goofy hats isn’t just fun, it’s mental exercise. These moments of playfulness encourage creativity, reduce mental rigidity, and may even help preserve cognitive health as you age.
9. Games Improve Coordination
Midway games like tossing rings, aiming darts, or shooting water at targets aren’t just entertaining, they can sharpen hand-eye coordination. These challenges engage fine motor skills and require focus, timing, and precision. While you might not win that oversized stuffed bear every time, your brain and body are working together in valuable ways. Researchers note that practicing coordination tasks can enhance problem-solving and spatial awareness, too. Add in the excitement of small rewards, and you’ve got a mix of fun and functional skill-building that makes those carnival-style games more than just a distraction between rides.
10. Spinning Rides Train Balance
Ever staggered off a tilt-a-whirl or spinning teacup ride? That dizzy feeling comes from stimulating your vestibular system, the part of your inner ear that controls balance and spatial orientation. While it might feel disorienting in the moment, this stimulation can help improve balance over time. By challenging your sense of equilibrium, these rides “exercise” your body’s ability to stabilize itself. For kids, this kind of vestibular input supports motor development, while adults may gain subtle improvements in balance and coordination. It’s a workout for a part of the body most of us never think about, hidden inside the fun.
11. Candy Apples Have a Silver Lining
While amusement park treats are usually indulgent, candy apples offer a surprising benefit. Biting into the hard coating and crisp fruit exercises jaw muscles and encourages saliva production, which helps digestion and keeps your mouth healthier. The apple itself provides fiber and nutrients that balance out the sugary shell, making it a more wholesome choice than many fried snacks. Similarly, other crunchy park foods like corn-on-the-cob require active chewing that strengthens oral muscles. So even though it feels like pure fun food, there’s a small health perk hidden in that sticky, classic fairground snack.
12. Nostalgia Promotes Well-Being
Amusement parks often spark a wave of nostalgia, whether it’s riding the same carousel from your childhood or sharing your favorite coaster with your kids. Psychologists say that revisiting happy memories helps reduce loneliness, boosts self-esteem, and even enhances overall life satisfaction. That warm, familiar feeling you get from reliving the past is more than sentimental; it’s healing. For many, these nostalgic moments at the park serve as emotional anchors, reminding us of joy, safety, and connection across generations. It’s proof that the rides aren’t the only thing that can lift your spirits, the memories do, too.
This story 12 Unusual Health Benefits of Going to an Amusement Park was first published on Daily FETCH
