Conquering the Rock: Know the Basics of Rock Climbing

In this world of rush-hour traffic, dog-eat-dog competition, and sky-high prices, one is susceptible to a lot of stress. And one way of releasing built up tension is engaging yourself in sports.

One could opt for traditional sports like tennis, badminton, or swimming. But for those who has an affinity for extreme and adrenalin-pumping activities, there is already a wide array of X-games out there including sky diving, parasailing, skateboarding, bungee jumping, and yes, rock climbing!

A relatively new sport, rock climbing basically possesses all the technical elements of mountaineering, sans the alpine conditions. The main goal of this sport is to reach the top of a rock wall using only your hands and feet. Generally, there are two types of rock climbing: the traditional or free climbing and the artificial or sport climbing.

Traditional or free climbing is done without fixed equipment on natural rock formations. On the other hand, artificial or sport climbing takes place in routes with bolts and anchors, ensuring greater safety and smaller equipment investment for the climber. This could either be in outdoor rock formations or in artificial walls in indoor gyms. These indoor walls are usually made of concrete and wood panels to which footholds are bolted.

Aside from helping you release tension and stress, rock climbing is a great way of staying in tiptop shape. It trains your body for strength, endurance, finesse, flexibility, balance, and muscle coordination. And more good news! It does not only make you fit, it also exercises your problem solving and analytical skills. Knowing when, where, and how to apply footwork and hold to reach the summit exercises the mental abilities of the climbers.

The must-haves for rock climbing include rock climbing shoes (made of supple leather or synthetic materials), light and comfortable clothes (usually made of Lycra-cotton blends and synthetic materials), athletic tape, harness, and chalk bag (made of magnesium carbonate to dry sweat from hands and fingers).

But before packing your bags for that first rock climbing session, there are a few tips to remember. First, never climb alone. Make sure you have a partner or belayer, especially for first-timers. Also, never step on your rope as this may cause small strands to break when friction is applied. Never drop or bang your biners because it can cause microcracks that break easily. Stick to the wall and distribute the weight on your legs and arms.

Now that you already know the basics, it's time to go and try to conquer your first rock!