Most of these are absolutely impossible. Why do humans take pleasure in seeing others look silly or get whacked in the head with a hoe?

Amazing.

What gets me is that these people KNOW what they are getting into, but do it anyway. Japanese TV is filled with people putting themselves through pain in these gameshows.

It is ridiculous, but if I had the chance I'd be on the shows as well.

I'm with you. I'd totally sign up as well.