Archive for the ‘Climbing’ Category

Tree Climbing Knots

05.20.11

One of the most common and enjoyable outdoor activity out of the list of different recreational activities is camping. If one is talking about camping then, how can we forget the most exciting activity of climbing a tree and that of course reminds us of our halcyon days of youth. Apart from fun, it is also a great exercise for the body. But to be safe while climbing the tree, it is better to know some tree climbing knots that will help you to get on to the top. The most important safety technique that is used for climbing is making the right knot for tree climbing. So, it is a must to have proper knowledge about tree climbing techniques and knots. There are many knots for tree climbing, so out of hundreds of tree climbing knots here, we have discussed some of the very easy, essential and basic tree climbing knots.

Tree Climbing Rope Knots

Overhand Bend Knot
When you are learning rappelling basics, this is one of the knots taught, because it is simple to tie this knot to join two ropes. This is generally useful when speed is critical to safety.

Water Knot
This knot is also known as double overhand knot, aka tape knot or ring bend knot. This knot is used for tying two ends of two different ropes and mostly used with webbing.

Bowline Knot
This knot must be known by every climber as it is the most important one. Its main use can be seen in joining a throwbag to a throwline, climbing line to carabiner and for tying the pieces during rigging. Though this knot is simple to untie, but creeping makes it loose. Read the rest of this entry »

Learn to Rock Climb

05.20.11

Climbing is a tremendously rewarding sport. The sense of freedom one feels as one moves gracefully over rock is unmatched and makes learning to rock climb worth the effort. With the proper guidance the process of learning to climb can also be a rewarding and freeing experience. Learning the proper skills and techniques under the tutelage of an experienced rock climber is necessary to ensure a safe passage up the wall. With safety taken care of, one can enjoy the natural and unique movement up a rock face. The vast, natural beauty around compliments he rock climbers total experience. An experienced rock climbing guide will allow for the aspiring climber to be safe, as well as lead them in the right technical direction.

For those fortunate enough to have friends who already climb see if they want to teach you to climb. Be sure your friend is patient and skilled enough to teach the skills of safely anchoring to rock.

If a willing and able teacher is not available, it is time to enroll in a rock climbing class. The climbing class provides a safe and supportive forum to delve into a new set of skills that take time to develop. You can also count on that your rock climbing guide will take you to climbing routes that are suitable to learn on.

The benefit of enrolling in a rock climbing class is that guides’ skills are up to date with the highest safety standards. Each class is approached with safety and support for the rock climbing class as their highest priorities. These are necessary to provide a healthy learning environment. Along with the guidance and patience of an instructor comes a group environment where everyone is learning together. All of these aspects provide a forum that is ideal for learning the delicate skills of rock climbing.

To become a confident and skilled climber is a wonderful process that takes some time. It is critical for the beginning climber that the initial skills learned are sound in order to be on a safe path of becoming a accomplished climber. Read the rest of this entry »