Everyone is out Climbing

This last weekend it seemed everyone was out climbing. Every time I see an expert in the field giving a class and taking time to really give good instruction, I just get a good feeling.

I particularly noticed a set-up for beginners that great care had been given to create the ultimate experience.

Rock climbing is one of the best experiences a person can have, if done right, and with correct supervision and staff for a group.

See you on the rock face.

OK you gone to indoor rock climbing. What's next?

Next time you go be focused on a couple of things. The first thing you should do is do some climbs just focusing on on your center of gravity. How does it change when I am closer to the rock face than further away. How does it change while I am climbing. What takes less effort? The second focus should be... try climbing basically with just your legs. Can you do it? Focus on lower body climbing. Does it take less energy? Go have fun and experiment.

Want to get ready for rock climbing?

There are indoor gyms that have popped up that offer rock climbing. Use them during the off season to keep your skills and muscles toned. If you are a beginner this is a good place to start. It gives you rock climbing experience in a very structured environment. You are able to gain some basic skills and also it lets you know about your all around fitness for the sport. If you are a beginner, please start at an indoor gym, or climbing lessons before you set out to tackle a rock face. Always have an experienced person in your group. And listen what they have to say.

For Beginners

Having a safe climb is important. The number one reason is that you want to be around the next time your friends want to go again. Rock climbing is a sport you can do most of your life. You don't have to learn everything in one climb or experience everything in one day. Don't rush things and take a person that has more experienced than yourself. You will enjoy the climb, learn a few things, and the experienced climber will enjoy the company.

When you are up on the rock, be attentive, and be willing to learn. There is a whole wonderful world of climbing awaits you. Do it safe.

COLD WEATHER MAKES CLIMBING MORE DIFICULT

When a rock climber is considering a rock face to scale, they need to consider the difficulty of the climb and match it with there abilities. Climbing with a partner is just plain common sense. Having the right equipment, that has been checked before the climb is also paramount. Planning out the climb and time lines to be not climbing during dark hours is essential. One thing that some climbers do not consider is the coldness of the rock. Cold weather makes it harder to climb. Everything else needs to be adjusted. The difficulty of the climb, extra people, equipment, and time frames. When a wind shows up, and it is already cold, it can be disastrous. Plan ahead.

BREATHE IN THE FRESH AIR

Living in the forest allows you to breathe in the fresh air. My favorite part of the morning is taking my breakfast out to the picnic table. Spending a few moments taking in nature. And I don't read the paper or look at my laptop during this time. It gives a time to relax and get centered for the day. I take an extra long breath and think life is good.

When I am in a difficult situation, whether it is work, or standing in line at customer service and it seems longer than it should, I take a big deep breath and imagine myself at the morning picnic table. I say to myself "life is good" and the irritation is lessened.

I smile.... I have a great life.

JUST FOLLOW THE MANUAL

When there is a dangerous situation on the mountain, some guys think they know best and not follow the rules. When this is the case, they endanger peoples lives wanting to be a hero. But when there is a critical situation, you can get into trouble really easy if you don't follow the manual. JUST FOLLOW PROCEDURES, and I am a happy camper. After awhile everyone realizes that search and rescue is a team effort.