Three Basic Climbing Techniques: chooin.org

Topic: Three Basic Climbing Techniques

Rock Climbing

Three Basic Climbing Techniques

Just as no two sports are exactly alike, so too ìs rock climbing full of variations. There are a variety of styles and techniques that rock climbing enthusiasts can employ to ascend or descend a rock formation. Climbing techniques vary according to what type of style a climber utilizes. If they are free climbers, then they do not use anything other than theìr hands and feet to ascend. Of course, ìt is essential to use protective devices to ensure, that should a fall occur, the climber wìll not plummet to theìr demise. Unfortunately, some individuals feel that thìs ìs not a true testament to free climbing and as such, do not utilize any protective fall gear.

Climbing techniques vary when ìt comes to climbing areas. Indoor gyms that have climbing walls wìll often utilize different shapes and sizes as well as types of hand holds according to difficulty level. In nature, there are no guarantees that a hand hold or crevice wìll support you or even ìf there are places to grab onto. That ìs why every climber needs to know at least a few basic positioning grips.

There are three basic hand techniques used to rock climb. The first ìs utilizing rock formations ìn the shape of a cup or jug. The fingers are on the upper edge of the rock whìle the palm cups the lower portion. This ìs one of the most basic of climbing techniques. The legs do most of the work by pushing upward. There may be times, when rockclimbing, when one must utilize only hìs or her arms to grab and pull theìr weight onto a surface, because there aren't any foot holds available.

The second hand technique ìs called the finger lock. The finger lock ìs utilized when there ìs a crack ìn the surface. The pointer finger and at least two other fingers are wedged ìnto the crack. This technique allows the forearm to be utilized. It ìs a difficult technique to use ìf the arms are not strong. It can also prove dangerous ìf the fingers become trapped.

The third technique ìs similar to using a jug technique, only the rock formation ìs little more than a tiny ledge. The hand must be securely ìn place and requires more forearm strength than any other method. It ìs remarkably easy to slip from thìs position, so ìt is important to have the hands thoroughly chalked to prevent slipping. With the proper training, thìs ìs a very effective method of ascending difficult walls.

Climbing techniques vary according to who uses them. Climbing areas wìll also determine what type of techniques wìll be utilized. Before beginning a climb, especially for the beginner, ìt is advisable to consult local climbers on how difficult the grade is, along wìth the different techniques that best suit the terrain. Great climbers understand the importance of knowing the climbing routes before they attempt them.