Have you joined rock climbing classes at a gym or sports center? Then the tips given in this article will definitely help you master the activity faster.
If you are someone who is interested in adventure sports or extreme sports, especially something like rock climbing, but cannot take out time to go rock climbing outdoors or live in an area where there is no rock landscape that will allow you to indulge in such an activity, then indoor rock climbing is a very good option for you. There are many people who live in cities and towns, who are opting for indoor rock climbing as an alternative to the outdoor version of the same. While the difficulty level never matches up to the hurdles that you will face outdoors, the practice and the physical exertion are good pros that work in its favor. Using experts tips while pulling yourself up these artificial structures will ensure that you do not hurt yourself. Most of the structures that are used for indoor rock climbing are made to resemble the terrain of mountainous structures, They are generally high walls with holds, and pockets and knobs for footing. Wood is the material that is used mostly to make these structures, while the holds are generally made of plastic. This sport is perfect for beginners, as it allows them to practice the same in an environment that is controlled and under the supervision of trained instructors.
How to Improve Yourself
One of the most important things to keep in mind is that it is an extremely physically-exerting activity that needs you to be fit. Pay attention to the techniques that will make climbing up easier. Try and always climb the wall with a buddy or in the presence of a trainer or an instructor. When at a class do not get intimidated by the rock climbing lingo that everyone seems to use. Once you understand these different terms, you will be using them as well. There is some important gear that needs to a part of your kit, which include a harness that you can rent at the place where you are climbing, proper shoes, proper clothing that is not very tight, a chalk bag, water, etc.
- It is extremely important that you perform stretching exercises and warm up before you start climbing an indoor wall. As with any other exercise, rock climbing when your muscles are tight affect your performance.
- Before you start climbing a wall, it is important that you map out the route that you want to take. This will ensure that you make the right moves while climbing the wall.
- Do not exert all your forearm strength when you grip to steady your balance, as your forearm is generally the first to tire. Save up on the strength that you put on your grip.
- Work on improving your sense of balance and work on finding your center of gravity. This will help you balance your movements on the wall. If you keep your body close to the wall, then your center of balance will be more than your center of mass which will lessen the pressure on your grip
- Use your legs as much as your arms, to ensure that the weight is balanced evenly.
- Use your arms to balance and shift weight, but not to hold your weight. If you need to use the strength of your upper body, then try and finish that part of the route faster.
- Work on those muscles that are used the most while rock climbing, as this will ensure that the climber can use his body weight more effectively. Do not try and climb the rock in one go. In fact, map the entire route with rests in between to ensure that you do not exert yourself completely.
- If you get stuck while climbing the wall, keep encouraging yourself, so as to get over that block. Don't stress out if you get stuck. You will manage to climb the wall eventually with perseverance.
- It is important to have correct breathing technique. Breathe from your stomach and through diaphragm. This will relax your body effectively.
When climbing a wall indoor, try different structures every time, or at least different routes so as to not become complacent about your abilities. Push yourself to do it better and faster. If you fall, remember it will only drive you to do better. Learn from other climbers who work on the same structures, as they will be able to give you some good tips that are useful. Even just watching them will teach you more about the techniques that should be used. Rock climbing, whether indoor or outdoor, once learned with proper techniques, is a great sport that can help in building your endurance levels.
