Rock
ClimbingRock
Climbing
Rock climbing is a very intense sport. There are beginners, intermediates, and advanced climbers. This site is mostly for beginners, though. It will teach basic techniques, what kind of gear you need, etc. But remember, there is nothing like getting professional attention in person. A website is not really able to help you become a star athlete. Also, if you're afraid of heights, rock climbing is not for you! Weigh your passion for the sport against your capabilities. Hopefully they'll be well balanced. If you still want to rock climb read on!
Here are the SIX MOST IMPORTANT TIPS:
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When going up stay as close as you can to the wall as possible. It makes climbing much easier because you don't have to cling to the rock: you can pretty much stand in place. |
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When you are resting, straighten your arms and lean back. Don't lean too far back - it will make it harder to continue. |
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If you are a beginner, take easier routes at first. This way you can practice your technique without becoming tired. |
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Put more of your weight on your legs instead of your arms. |
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Take it one foot at a time - you don't want to be dangling by your hands! |
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Try to plan out your next move so you can place your arms and legs there without a great deal of switching. |
Safety
Hazards
1. You can get killed.
2. You can kill someone.
3. You might fall. Most people who die, though, die of carelessness and inexperience.
Note: These are the grueling facts. These are not here to discourage or scare you, but merely to inform you of the dangers. Still want to rock climb?
Safety is IMPORTANT!
1. Be careful!
2. Think about hazards. (See below)
3. If you're a beginner, never go rock climbing without anyone.
4. Have the proper gear.
5. Be aware of hypothermia.
Hazards
1. You can get killed.
2. You can kill someone.
3. You might fall. Most people who die, though, die of carelessness and inexperience.
Note: These are the grueling facts. These are not here to discourage or scare you, but merely to inform you of the dangers. Still want to rock climb?
Gear
Gear is very important. When starting you don't need a lot. Mentors and climbing partners will be glad to lend you things, but later you will need specialized rock shoes, several slings, and a harness. This can be very costly, so be prepared.
How do I get a Good Technique?
Having a good technique doesn't necessarily mean, doing something a certain way. Everyone has their own technique. Having a good technique is doing something that suits your purposes. If you were meant to be a slow climber and you tried climbing really fast that wouldn't be a good technique for you. What works for others doesn't always work for you. But let's say you want to learn a new technique. That's perfectly all right. Here are some tips on how to do that:
1. Watch someone. There's no better way than a visual tutorial.
2. Practice, Practice, Practice! It will enable you to become comfortable with the technique and it will improve your skills!
3. Try climbing when your are tired. It will force you to move slowly and it will teach you to conserve power. You'll be able to plan your moves in advance.
Locations and People
You can practice anywhere from a climbing gym to a national park. Want to learn from someone? Learn from:
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Mentors |
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Schools/Classes |
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Guides |
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Clubs |
The Really Basic Stuff
Hand grips in terms of rock climbing are called "Jams". Here are two "Jams".
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Finger Jam- (this is written is for the right-hand but can be changed to left by doing the reverse) The right hand is inserted, thumb pointing down. The right hand is twisted clockwise. Relax! |
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Fist Jam- Place hand in crack and clench fist. This might be painful - so you can tape your hand. |
Resource . . .
The Archive of Rock Climbing Moves and Tips (See Bibliography for more information)