ROCK CLIMBING & CAVING

Rock Climbing – Make your summer adventurous

Rock climbing has become a major sport or leisure activity for thousands of outdoor sports enthusiasts these days. Though it is generally a risky sport which demands physical strength and endurance, it has a different kind of excitement and challenge which attract adventurous people.

Different styles of rock climbing include :

•  Indoor climbing
• Traditional climbing
• Bouldering 

Since it is a dangerous sport it will always be wise to learn the essentials from qualified and experienced climbers by joining a rock climbing course. Learning proper climbing techniques and strengthening the rock climbing skills are crucial for the safe completion of the routes. Knowing the proper usage of specialised climbing equipments is also very important. History says that rock climbing began in the last quarter of the nineteenth century in various parts of Europe especially in the Alps area. But it gradually evolved from a necessity to an athletic activity.

Rock climbing in Canmore and Banff area is known to be the most exciting experience with climbs and areas suitable for every level of climber. This place is famous as rock climbers’ paradise. There are lots of institutions conducting rock climbing courses in this area where you can improve your rock climbing skills. In the Banff area there are places for first time rock climbers and children that make rock climbing in Canmore and Banff area more attractive. And for youngsters with previous sports experience there are a multitude of crags especially around Canmore area. One day or half-day classes are also available on request for individuals and groups in these areas. Advanced booking is also possible. Customized rock climbing courses are there to meet your specific needs and objectives. Beginner or advanced level courses, courses with focus on specific aspects of climbing such as sport climbing, multi-pitch climbing etc. and courses for kids to improve their rock climbing skills are available. Optimum season for rock climbing in Canmore and Banff area is mid-May to late September.

Some basic developing techniques are there to improve your climbing performance. First of all you must warm up and stretch your body to improve circulation and flexibility before you start climbing. It helps the joints, ligaments and muscles to move more smoothly. Develop a mental skill to visualize the sequences through the entire route before you climb and plan each move through the route in your mind. Relax yourself before you start. Improve your sense of balance. Rock climbing courses will definitely help you to develop this skill. There are many climbing techniques and you have to adapt your style to make best use of your abilities. Learning to find out and take advantage of rest spots while climbing is a very important technique in rock climbing. In fact, you must pick these rest spots right from the ground. And the most important thing is that you must accept falling as a part of climbing and learn how to fall safely. It is a fact that there is a basic fear of falling in human beings. But there are some basic techniques to get over this fear and help you to take a deliberate fall in a safe spot. So, if you are really adventurous and want to attempt rock climbing then rush to join a rock climbing course and polish your rock climbing skills. Once you are trained, just start climbing and conquer new horizons.

About the Author

Eric as an eminent figure in the ice and mixed climbing realm has got years of experience. He works both locally and internationally, he enjoys giving guides in ice climbing, ski touring and avalanche courses. Also giving guidance in these all through mountain skills academy.

Bouldering – Climbing Dave Graham