If you actually think it through, it becomes apparent that the “full loop” is impossible for a solitary swinger. Of course, that doesn’t stop kids from trying.
Mythbusters showed that this is impossible, you need a rigid swing. Rockets propelling a swing does work but make sure you’re wearing fire-proof undies in case of malfunction. Beep-Beep.
Sorry, folks, I don’t care how many people claim to have seen this done in second grade, it is simply impossible to “pump” a swing on chains into a 360 degree loop. One cannot add enough energy to the system to reach “orbital” velocity in a single cycle. Once the rider exceeds a 90 degree backswing, the swing will descend straight down, and “jolt” when the chain pulls taut.
KZ71 about 10 years ago
Three ibuprofen coming up.
Last Rose Of Summer Premium Member about 10 years ago
We all tried this, only seen it work once. Kid got in big trouble tho, it was at recess. I was in second grade and mightly impressed!
Varnes about 10 years ago
Some things have to be experienced…..
Atanwat about 10 years ago
If you actually think it through, it becomes apparent that the “full loop” is impossible for a solitary swinger. Of course, that doesn’t stop kids from trying.
flyertom about 10 years ago
Doable if you put some jetpacks on the swing seat ala MythBusters.
rshive about 10 years ago
Gravity takes control somewhere in there.
mourdac Premium Member about 10 years ago
@2old: same here, 2nd grade. One kid was able to do it. Pretty ugly, face first in the gravel (no kid-friendly playgrounds back then) at high speed.
Kim Metzger Premium Member about 10 years ago
You’ll be turned inside out if you do it!
Stellagal about 10 years ago
I got my first cast thanks to my attempt at the full loop.
Mstreselena about 10 years ago
Mythbusters showed that this is impossible, you need a rigid swing. Rockets propelling a swing does work but make sure you’re wearing fire-proof undies in case of malfunction. Beep-Beep.
Fido (aka Felix Rex) about 10 years ago
As I teach my middle school physical science students — gravity is weak but always wins.
Jessica_D about 10 years ago
so did the kid think things through first since we don’t see him in a full body cast (or his full body) in the final panel
PapaBishop about 10 years ago
I tried it once at a park, same result.
I Quit about 10 years ago
No, guys, it’s not doable with a flexible seat attachment, i.e. rope/chain. Gravity combined with the tangent function puts a stop to it.
Atanwat about 10 years ago
Sorry, folks, I don’t care how many people claim to have seen this done in second grade, it is simply impossible to “pump” a swing on chains into a 360 degree loop. One cannot add enough energy to the system to reach “orbital” velocity in a single cycle. Once the rider exceeds a 90 degree backswing, the swing will descend straight down, and “jolt” when the chain pulls taut.