How to handle intense rides at disneyworld

Question

Our entire party (6yo, 8yo and adults) is somewhat sensitive for intense attractions but still wants to try a few. To that end I have some questions:

1. We were told that in big thunder (which I know is closed now) the strategy to minimize intensity is to sit in the front first row. Does this strategy also apply to seven dwarf, barnstormer and dinasours?

2. In Mission space green, if at some point we feel dizzy or something, can we just close our eyes to feel better (so we don’t look at the screen) or will the movement on its own cause the intensity?

3. Regarding Dinasours. How bad for your back is the movement? Any strategy to mitigate it by holding onto something?

Thanks a lot!

Answer

Handling intense rides at Disney World when you have younger children or are sensitive to motion can definitely require some strategy. Here’s a breakdown based on your questions:

1. Ride positioning to reduce intensity:

Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: Sitting in the middle or back can sometimes feel slightly less jerky than the front row, since the front tends to lead every twist. However, the differences are subtle because the ride is smooth compared to traditional roller coasters.
Barnstormer: This is a smaller, kiddie roller coaster. The front row may feel slightly faster, but the intensity is generally low, so the choice of seat is less critical for comfort.
Dinosaur (in Animal Kingdom): The ride vehicle is suspended on a track with sudden movements. The front row can feel sharper because you see obstacles first, while the middle or back might smooth out the jerks slightly. Holding onto the grab bars is key for stability.

2. Mission: SPACE – Green: The green version is the milder of the two simulations. You can close your eyes during the ride to reduce visual input, which often helps with nausea. Motion itself is minimal, so closing your eyes is usually sufficient to ease discomfort. Additionally, you can tilt your head back against the seat and take deep breaths to further reduce dizziness.

3. Dinosaur ride – back and motion considerations:

The ride has jerky motions, sudden turns, and occasional drops, which can stress the lower back. It’s not extreme, but people with sensitive backs may feel it.
Strategies to mitigate discomfort:

Keep your back pressed against the seat and brace with your legs slightly apart.
Hold onto the provided lap bars or grab handles firmly.
Engage your core slightly to absorb jolts.
If anyone in your party has a very sensitive back, it might be worth skipping or having them ride with the adults who can provide stability.

Additional general tips:

Use Rider Switch if some in your group are unsure about intensity, allowing adults to ride while others wait with kids and then switch.
Consider riding earlier in the day when lines are shorter, allowing you to quickly exit if anyone feels overwhelmed.
Stay hydrated and avoid heavy meals immediately before rides to reduce nausea.

By choosing seating carefully, using grab handles, and managing visual input, most families can enjoy these rides even if some members are sensitive. Green Mission: SPACE is generally very manageable for most people, and the other attractions’ intensity can be moderated by simple positioning and holding strategies.

How to handle intense rides at disneyworld

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