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By: Ikedi Ani-okoye.

Introduction to Rock climbing

Rock Climbing began with explorers blazing trails up mountains and across Arctic wastes. Then came the free climbers-daring individuals stoked by the challenge of sheer rock and gravity. Rock climbing may be the most individual of sports. Going up rock or ice, every climber has a different style. There seem to be countless ways to put finger to stone or lever an axe into ice. Climbing is also a team sport. A free climber's life is in his or her partner's hands.

Techniques for Rock climbing

Rock climbing can be done by almost anyone so long as they are in best physical shape. The first and important basic about footwork in rock climbing is to use the toes and not the feet. When rock climbing it is best to do most of the climbing using the legs and try to keep the center of gravity over the feet and push with the legs. The arms and hands are used only for balancing and positioning. However as the route of the climb becomes difficult, the climber needs incredible arm, hand and finger strength and endurance to stick to the rock.

Things to consider before taking up rock climbing

If you're think of taking up rock climbing. It is surely an activity that is exhilarating and exciting. It’s not for everyone though, as it is a sport that is physically demanding and not for the faint of heart. Climbing is not simply one activity; there are many different types of climbing and many times a climb consists of two or more types of climbing. There is bouldering, free soloing, sport, traditional (or trad), aid, alpine, and ice climbing. Familiarizing yourself with these types of climbing will aid you in determining which you prefer and what type of climb is right for you.

Rock Climbing Equiptment

Helmet. You need to protect your head from potential bumps or falls. You could get a helmet for as low as $35.

Harness. A harness will provide the support you need while scaling cliffs and crags. You could get one for as low as $35 as well. Harnesses are quite durable. They'll serve you for many, many years.

Climbing shoes. These are also called as approach shoes. Their distinctive feature is a clip that has a locking carabineer. You could buy a pair for $80 up.

Safety carbineer. This is needed to lock into your harness and your rope.

Rope. An absolute necessity, though if you're climbing with a group, you could most probably share one with the team.

CONCLUSION

Hopefully you know a bit about rock climbing already, if not you have got some serious work to do. You will need to be experienced in the techniques so get some professional help and get plenty of practice. You will need to know about belaying, abseiling, tying into the rope etc. There are lots of indoor climbing walls where you can learn but for the best experience get some lessons on an actual rock...