To participate in the sport of rock climbing, you don't have to be a super athlete. It is more a sport of grace and balance rather than one of strength. What is the allure of rock climbing anyway? You will usually come away from an encounter with ripped hands and various scabby body parts and there will be times where you will be scared out of your wits. For many people it is about exploring the natural world around you and finding the strength and perseverance buried deep inside of you.
How do you get started in the sport of rock climbing? You don't need to be young or overly fit. Many people begin climbing later in life and there are excellent climbers of all ages. Climbing is not only about strength either. There have been many men who have been humbled by a graceful female, and the apparent ease with which she clambers over the rocks. Rock climbing is mostly about balance and knowing your body, and how to reposition it in space. You have to be creative when you are rock climbing because you have to adapt to what the rock you are climbing has to offer you. Your legs and feet are your most important tools for getting you up, though your upper body gets a fairly good work out as well.
Last week saw a record number of young climbers from around the world take part in the IFSC World Youth Championships in Arco, Italy. For the first time ever, bouldering was included as a third discipline alongside Lead and Speed.
Two months ago, Jimmy Webb made the first, and so far only, repeat of Nalle Hukkataival's Livin' large in the Champagne sector at Rocklands, South Africa.
Your safety depends solely and only on You, no one else. Take responsibility for getting proper climbing instruction in anchors, equipment use, rope handling, rappelling, movement, and all other aspects of climbing by taking classes, hiring a guide for a day, or going out with experienced climbers as their rock apprentice.
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