Learning How To Rock Climb

October 8th, 2007 | Backpacks, Camping and Climbing Gear

Each year, millions of individuals are urged by their physician to get more exercise. Exercise has been shown to decrease depression as well as get the body in shape. Perhaps no sport works the body quite like rockclimbing does. The problem is that it is not a sport that can be immediately done. You must know how to rock climb before you can undertake an ascent that could prove to be life threatening.

Learning how to rock climb is not impossible, but it does require rock climbing instruction to show you how it is done. There are a few “musts” that all rock climbers have in common. They must be in good health because it takes physical strength to be able to pull yourself up the ascent. The second must is that they cannot be an acrophobic. Acrophobia is a fear of heights.

Once you have the doctor’s go ahead and a clean bill of health, it is then time to begin your training. The best advice you can get, if you do not have a friend that knows how to climb, is to go to the local indoor rock climbing gym and talk to an instructor. If you want to begin outdoors, then many National parks have classes and seminars that can teach you rockclimbing techniques. Some even have personal instructors that will give you one-on-one instruction and who will even go on climbs with you.

One of the best pieces of advice that you can receive when it comes to rock climbing is to start small. Do not attempt an ascent of anything over a grade of 5.5. You definitely do not want to get partially up the rock wall and find yourself in a precarious situation. The same thing applies to unknown climbing paths. If you have not been on the climb before or are still fairly new to the sport, then do not attempt the climb alone.

Rock climbing is a terrific way to stay in shape and to gain great skill. There are thousands of different climbs located throughout the world. Many climbers base their vacations solely around new peaks or cliffs, or alpine climbing. You may just be starting out, but eventually you will develop the needed skills to climb more difficult cliff faces, boulders or mountain peaks. Go ahead and learn how to rock climb, you will not be disappointed. Don’t forget your climbing shoes!

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Proper Rock Climbing Gear

October 1st, 2007 | Backpacks, Camping and Climbing Gear

Just for laughs, imagine a race car driver showing up for the big race and not having his or her car. No car means that the racer is not going to race that day. The same thing goes for rock climbers. You cannot rock climb without the proper rock climbing gear. It does not matter if you free climb or aid climb. There are certain pieces of equipment that are necessary to make even the easiest ascent.

The most fundamental piece of rock climbing gear is rope. It is used to help you ascend and descend. It functions in a dual capacity. It allows you to climb, but it also protects you in case you slip and loose your grip. Not all rope is alike and you should never use rope that is not specifically designed for climbing. This is certainly one area in which you do not want to go with the least expensive item. If you’re a beginner, you will want to get some practice and develop the necessary skills, so use the rope or webbing provided by indoor rock climbing gyms. After you get a feel for the sport, you can then purchase the rope you will need. Rope is also the equipment you will want to check religiously and replace often.

There are two pieces of rock climbing gear that are often overlooked in the hustle and bustle of gathering your equipment together. Chalk and a good pair of climbing shoes. Both serve to ensure a good grip on the rock surface. The chalk prevents slipping and the shoes help grip and keep you from sliding down. It can be a long drop to the bottom, so make sure to take those extra precautions.

One further note: Regardless if you intend to climb without any aid or devices to help you, it does not mean you have to take unnecessary risks. You should always use equipment to help you in case of a fall. You do not have to use rope, carabiners or belays to help you ascend, but you definitely want something there in case you make an untimely descent. Always consult a professional climber about the proper safety equipment before you begin.

There are hundreds of pieces of rock climbing gear that you can purchase. Each one has a different specialty. There are specially designed gloves and clothing to help you stay cool and minimize damage from scrapes or cuts. There are harnesses and devices used to help climbers descend quickly without worrying about rope tangles. Lightweight backpacks can be used for overnight trips. The most important piece of equipment you will ever need is a helmet. Make sure to know what you need before you attempt to climb and always start small before trying to tackle steeper grades.

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