Rock climbing is a sport in which participants climb a natural rock formation or artificial walls with the aim of reaching the summit or an established target point. Rock climbing is similar to scrambling (a kind of extreme hiking in which you climb hills or similar formations), but it differs from the latter in that you have to use your hands to support your weight and more. to maintain balance.
Rock climbing is a very demanding sport both physically and mentally: in fact, strength, endurance, agility and balance are required, in addition to mental control of all this. It can be dangerous and it is therefore essential to know the right climbing techniques and use specific equipment in order to be able to safely complete the various routes.
Steps
Step 1. Learn the basic techniques
Climbing is a dangerous sport and cannot be learned through experimentation and error. There are techniques you need to know and they can be taught to you by more experienced climbers. The easiest way to learn is to go to a climbing gym and take lessons. In the gym you will learn basic techniques and get to know more experienced climbers who will lead you to your outdoor climbing outings.
Step 2. Find an experienced climber to pair up with on your first few climbs
It is best to never climb alone and have at least one experienced climber in the group.
Step 3. Choose your style
You can start with sport climbing or bouldering. This article is aimed at sport climbing. In this type of sport, you climb routes previously created by other climbers. In these routes there are nails and rings permanently placed on the rock. A more experienced climber will climb up the route with a rope using pegs and carabiners as protection to reach the summit. At that point, they will arrange the rings and thread the rope. After the first climber has dropped down, the following will climb using the newly placed rope as protection and someone will secure the ground.
Step 4. Choose the right crag and route for you
Ask a more experienced friend to help you decide where to go. You will want a crag with routes that are easy enough for a beginner. Your experienced friend will pick a way to start that's simple enough for you. Use a guide to find out which routes are in the area and their difficulty levels.
Step 5. Put on your gear
In most cases this includes climbing shoes, a chalk bag, a helmet and a harness. Your partner should check if you have put on all safety devices correctly.
Step 6. Get attached
When you are ready to climb, you will need to attach your harness to the rope with an 8 knot. Your partner will attach the other end of the rope to his harness.
Step 7. Double check your equipment
Your partner will always have to check your knots and you will need to check theirs before starting. When you are ready, ask "Am I going?" to your partner. If everything is OK, your partner will reply "Go!". At that point you will say "Climb" and he will reply "Climb". It may sound redundant, but safety in climbing is exactly that: redundancy. A mistake could be very costly.
Step 8. Put some chalk from your bag into your hands and start climbing
If your hands start to sweat too much, put in more chalk. Use your arms to find balance and to stay attached to the rock and use your legs to support the weight of your body. Try to keep very close to the wall. Make harmonious and precise movements and well thought out foot movements.
Step 9. Prepare for a possible fall
If you feel like you are losing your grip or approaching a part that is too difficult, tell your partner to "hold" or pull hard on the rope. If you fall, you will not fall so low. When you fall, push yourself away from the wall immediately and put your feet in front of you so that you can support yourself. Trust the rope. If you are afraid of falling, try doing trial falls.
Step 10. Close the climb
When you reach the summit or the previously set point, let your partner know. Then, sit on your harness and place your feet in front of you, with your legs apart. When you are ready to ignite, yell at your partner "ready to go". He will say "get off" and slowly let the rope go through his harness. By doing so, you will get off safely. Keep your legs straight enough and push them on the wall or walk on the rock. Don't try to climb downhill.
Step 11. Detach the rope when you have come down
After your partner has dropped you off, get up and untwist your knot at 8.
Advice
- Take your time.
- Join a climbing club.
- Use only certified safety equipment (harness, rope, etc.).
- If you climb outdoors, contribute to the cleaning of the cliff
- If you're starting out, don't use shoes that are too painful. You would end up thinking only about foot pain.
- Begin your lead climbing on routes that are accessible for your level
- Before you begin, set aside some time for a warm-up session. It could consist of arm exercises or low difficulty climbing. By doing so you will avoid possible trauma.
