Climbing Blocks » Climbing Walls

Safety Precautions For Rock Climbing

Climbing Blocks — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 08:37:37 +0000

If you are not an outdoors person, then rock climbing might appear to be a hazardous and wild activity. The sport has improved a lot within the last few years, making it more secure and simpler to learn than it used to be previously. It is a sport of control, stamina and skill that could offer a large amount of personal satisfaction and excitement. With highly developed gears, excellent training and other latest inclusions like the indoor climbing sports centers. Climbing is not all difficult and can be equated with learning how to swim or attempting gymnastics.
Safety precautions
Whenever you climb, you are expected to exercise your ability and gears at hand to prevent any kind of injury. Appropriate training and gears facilitate lesser threat and hazards. However, it would not be able to get rid of the threats and hazards completely. It is vital to consider each and every aspect and be appropriately prepared and obtain suitable instructions prior to the ascent.
Belaying
A huge element of climbing is increasing knowledge and making use of the correct gears that would act as your protection just in case of a fall. Whenever you are climbing, remember that there is a possibility that you may fall; therefore you require some kind of support and have to consider safety measures. The most important technique for that is called belaying. Basically, belaying plainly implies that the climber is tied to a rope, where the rope is fastened to some kind of permanent object, and on the opposite end of the rope, another person called the belayer holds on to and controls the equipment. There are more than a few techniques for protecting the rope that are attempted while attempting different climbing conditions.
Bouldering
Belaying is an essential element of climbing when the climber is at a height and there is a possibility of a sudden fall. One type of climbing is called bouldering, where there is no need for a belay. Bouldering is a fantastic beginning to the sport of climbing, and a wonderful method to practice, as it trains you in a few of the fundamental methods. However, it is carried out nearer to the ground, where there is not much risk involved. Climbers might spend a whole day trying to perfect their climbing moves through a short rock path that would be just a few feet above the ground. It facilitates to sharpen the hand and foot skills and increase the level of stamina. There are a lot of climbers who feel that bouldering is a sports activity in itself!
Whether it is bouldering or making use of belay methods, climbers at all times must use safety helmets. In addition, there are specific shoes to facilitate them to acquire a better grip against the face of the rock. They can use chalk on their hands as it facilitates to provide them with a better grip and avoids their palms getting slippery due to sweating or dampness. Chalk is carted in a little chalk-bag that is attached on the climber’s belt.

All You Need To Know About Wall Climbing Holds

Climbing Blocks — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 20:42:21 +0000

Seriously impressed with Spider-Man and his wall climbing skills? Then wall climbing is what you should do next. Started as a fun activity wall climbing has now taken a shape of professional sports where the rock climbers get their hand on experience before climbing a
real one.
Professional or Amateur wall climbing is now favored as a perfect indoor adventure activity which rushes adrenaline with the sheer joy and technique which requires both strength and flexibility. Climbing the wall is now a popular activity amongst the young and adventure lovers.
The best part of this activity is that you can have the adventure going on with utmost safety and inside your home or in your backyard. A climbing wall is a standard wall made of brickwork or in some cases hard plywood which is made according to standard designs with holds to climb or descend.
With proper safety gear this sport is the safest adventure activity wherein you can crawl the ceiling of your home as well. You can build the climbing wall with little efforts and a good budget or if you don’t want to use either you can simply rent the wall for your use.
If you have decided to have your own climbing wall you need to know a few important aspects of it. A wall just isn’t complete without adding an assortment of basic climbing wall holds. Holds are what your feet and hands “hold” onto so that you can advance upwards as well as descend.
The climbing holds are available in vibrant colors, pastels, and shades of swirling grays that actually look and feel like real granite rock outcrops. In all basic climbing holds definitely separate the good climbing walls from the great ones!
It is important to clarify when you’re purchasing basic climbing holds is whether or not your holds come equipped with t-nuts, bolts and screws. If they don’t, you will have to purchase the hardware separately, that may incur more cost to the built-up.
Something else to consider is the wall degree the holds have been designed to accommodate. For example, if you’re outfitting your 45 degree steep overhang, you definitely want to be sure the holds are designed for this. Usually you’ll find that basic rock climbing holds are sold in multi-piece kits, with each kit containing a differing number of mixed sizes and colors.
Sizes range from very small dime-sized holds to extra large. Some holds are ergonomically designed and these offer a more comfortable grip. Some holds are manufactured with a coating of UV protectant so that they can withstand the outside elements.
Consider purchasing stainless steel hardware if the holds will be used outdoors which are more durable and don’t whether out. Get going with the wall holds and experience the thrill of wall climbing in your own backyard.

Wall Climbing Holds

Climbing Blocks — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 20:30:01 +0000

Seriously impressed with Spider-Man and his wall climbing skills, then wall climbing is what you should do next. Started as a fun activity wall climbing has now taken a shape of professional sports where the rock climbers get their hand on experience before climbing a real one. Professional or Amateur wall climbing is now favored as a perfect indoor adventure activity which rushes adrenaline with the sheer joy and technique which requires both strength and flexibility. Climbing the wall is now a popular activity amongst the young and adventure lovers.

The best part of wall climbing is that you can have the adventure going on with utmost safety and inside your home or in your backyard. A climbing wall is a standard wall made of brickwork or in some cases hard plywood which is made according to standard designs with holds to climb or descend. With proper safety gear wall climbing is the safest adventure activity wherein you can crawl the ceiling of your home as well. You can build the climbing wall with little efforts and a good budget or if you don’t want to use either you can simply rent the wall for your use.

If you have decided to have your own climbing wall you need to know a few important aspects of it. A climbing wall just isn’t complete without adding an assortment of basic climbing wall holds. Holds are what your feet and hands “hold” onto so that you can advance upwards as well as descend. The wall climbing holds are available in vibrant colors, pastels, and shades of swirling grays that actually look and feel like real granite rock outcrops. In all basic climbing wall holds definitely separate the good climbing walls from the great ones!

It is important to clarify when you’re purchasing basic climbing wall holds is whether or not your holds come equipped with t-nuts, bolts and screws. If they don’t, you will have to purchase the hardware separately, that may incur more cost to the built-up. Something else to consider is the wall degree the holds have been designed to accommodate. For example, if you’re outfitting your 45 degree steep overhang, you definitely want to be sure the holds are designed for this. Usually you’ll find that basic rock climbing holds are sold in multi-piece kits, with each kit containing a differing number of mixed sizes and colors. Sizes range from very small dime-sized holds to extra large. Some holds are ergonomically designed and these offer a more comfortable grip. Some holds are manufactured with a coating of UV protectant so that they can withstand the outside elements. Consider purchasing stainless steel hardware if the holds will be used outdoors which are more durable and don’t whether out. Get going with the wall holds and experience the thrill of wall climbing in your own backyard.

Outdoor Fitness Equipments

Climbing Blocks — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:35:43 +0000

With gyms generally being harshly neon-lit, sweaty, airless boxes, blaring music from MTV, is it any wonder that although most people join them with every intention of following an exercise routine for health and fitness, they soon drop out?
But lately, gyms have been taking on a new avatar, being relocated outdoors. This means that you can begin pumping up your biceps and quadriceps once again, but this time basking in the sun, in the leafy green surroundings of a park near you.
Gym equipment manufacturers have begun producing complete outdoor fitness equipment for enhancing flexibility, agility, cardiovascular fitness and endurance, and for strengthening the upper body, lower body, abs and back. The equipment can be installed on a fitness trail, in a playground, or as a bunch of exercise stations in a park. They can be used by people of all ages, from school kids to senior citizens, and are suitable for both inner-city locations and the suburbs.
The outdoor fitness equipment is made of heavy gauge, strong steel and is designed to withstand the roughest of environments outdoors and last a long time. The equipment is very attractive, with colorful powder coated finishes, can be installed easily, and is practically maintenance free.
They also come with instructions for warming up, stretching, working out, and cooling down routines. The basic idea is for the user to move from one exercise to another, according to the instructions, thus getting a full body workout in an effective and safe way.
And even inclement weather cannot spoil an outdoor exercise regime, because rain does not have an effect on the equipment. They are safe to use even when they are wet. The inspiration for using outdoor equipment comes from China. With the Beijing Olympics approaching, the Chinese government has set up over 4,000 gyms outdoors in the last six years. While similarly, in the U.S. about 6,000 open spaces and parks have exercise equipment that can be accessed by the general public, and in Australia, over 50 percent of the parks have weather-proof, ultra-modern exercise equipment.
According to sports science professionals, an outdoor exercise regimen provides a more varied and functional workout, enhances mood, while you avoid all the smells and germs that indoor gyms have.
Here are some examples of common outdoor fitness equipment:
Horizontal Bars
This is used for pull-ups or chin-ups, which is one of the basic exercises for strengthening the upper body. They can be used for many other types of exercises as well, such as stretching the arms and shoulders, hanging leg-lifts which tone up the muscles in the abdomen, or just dangling by the arms, which helps to align the spine and provides a lower back stretch, which is very beneficial.
Sitting Rotator
This device has three rotating seats that swivel, which helps to stretch the internal and external muscles in the abdomen. It also serves to strengthen the lower back by aligning the spine.
Sit-up Board
This is used for sit-up exercises which target the abdominal muscles primarily, although they also are beneficial for flexor muscles of the upper thighs and hips.
Leg Press Machine
Since it involves some the most major muscles of the body, the leg press is considered one of the most important exercises. Adjustable for different resistance levels, the machine primarily targets the gluteal muscles and the quadriceps.
Climber
This is akin to a climbing wall, with strengthening pulls and hand holds.
Strength & Stretch Bars
This apparatus helps to develop shoulder and arm strength with various pushing and pulling exercises. It has five bars which are set at various heights in order to provide different levels of resistance.

Design Considerations For Climbing Walls

Climbing Blocks — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 01:12:44 +0000

Wall climbing is a sport, which needs a lot of strength and determination. But the design structure of the wall plays an important part too. That’s simply because, if the design structure is not the way the climber wants it to be, there is no way that he can even think of scaling the wall structure. In case, you are considering designing the climbing walls, you should be assured the wall climbing industry offer you variety of materials and like equipments. Therefore, as a buyer, it is important for you to know the importance and the drawbacks of the various materials and equipments available, ensuring that you don’t compromise over its quality, so that you get the best wall climbing design.
The first thing that you can do is draw the design of your current climbing wall, even a simple outline would do for this matter. It is always good to draw a sketch first, since that helps you to determine the different facets of the climbing wall. If you’re good with numbers, then the measurement aspect of the climbing wall should come naturally to you. However, you may find it a bit tough to get the angles right, in the beginning. Therefore, for this purpose, it is advisable that you take all the dimensions according to the scale.
Some of the important things that you must consider with respect to designing a climbing wall are as follows:
. Keep the expenses within your budget. This simply means that you have to choose the materials and the design that you can afford. This is particularly important in case of climbing schools and other institutions alike. Therefore, when opting for any climbing design, you have to remember the design that you have selected must be at par with the latest wall climbing designs in the world, so that the wall surface wouldn’t have to be changed too often.
. Another important consideration that you possibly cannot avoid is the fact for whom the climbing wall will be designed, i.e., whether it is for professional climbers or for the amateurs. The design also depends upon factors such as frequency of the climbers’ visits, their skills, etc. This simply means that you have to make certain accommodations for the climbers according to their needs and at the same time introduce some challenging courses to sharpen their climbing skills.
. Whatever wall surface type you choose, you have to remember that it should have a long life. With respect to the longevity of the climbing walls, there are many options that you can consider. One of the most important aspects that you have to remember is that the wall you have selected must be flexible to the evolving nature of this wall climbing sport.
Therefore, when it comes to the installation aspect of the wall-climbing surface, you have to take all the above-mentioned factors into consideration.
Apart from these basic factors, other aspects that you have to look out for would include taking the help of an expert licensed engineer for the installation purpose and the assistance of a wall climbing designing professional. The wall climbing design can really act as the deciding factor in determining whether the wall climbing experience will be exciting or will it just be too dull for the climbers.

Rock Climbing Practice Walls

Climbing Blocks — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 09:03:02 +0000

A majority of people who indulge in sports aspire to sustain their body strength, no matter what. You would also come across a few individuals who would rather spend their free time working out at gyms, jogging in the closest park, or occupied in the strenuous world of ball games. An individual, who would rather not emphasize a lot on weightlifting and the likes, could go in for a much better option-rock climbing.
Why select the option of rock climbing? Well, it is quite simple, climbing is ranked as one of the most daring and gripping sports in this present day and age. Apart from enhancing one’s body muscles, climbing builds a sense of discipline. There definitely are quite a few barriers, which require to be overcome by a rock climber. Through these, the rock climber’s mental control is irked because his mind is tickled with the intent of applying new tactics to conquer the barriers. On the whole, climbing brings on the power of both, courage and wit.
While a person sets out to go rock climbing, he is blessed with the opportunity of viewing the world from the top. He is also very lucky to soak in the first rays of the morning sun. Furthermore, he enjoys a sense of triumph and contentment. The person should not be frightened of climbing as it is a safe sport as long as the climber is wearing and carrying the appropriate tools and gear. Moreover, he must also gather the experience required to help him go further.
Rock Climbing Practice for a Novice
For all the novices, it would clearly be dangerous to undertake the difficult, steep treks. It would be a much better idea and safer too if they could practice rock climbing on the indoor walls. The climbing walls are man-made objects that consist of crannies and hooks that provide the individual with an actual rock setting. It is during the practice sessions on the climbing walls that the trainers are able to instruct the climber on the appropriate utilization of the legs and arms, the rappel as well as the ropes.
The Actual Handling of Rock Climbing
Rock climbing walls are equipped with the essential parts that stick out to allow the climber to gain a foot-hold. On the other hand, the individual has to apply tactics and assessment to climb the wall or the rock. A single wrong judgment could result in an accident. Being a climber, an individual is supposed to have a vigilant mind. All the way through the lessons, a person is trained to identify his strong and weak points.
A majority of the rock-climbing novices rely on their equipment. The expert rock climbers on the other hand observe the surface to identify the number of free strokes they can apply. Trips for rock climbing could turn out to be costly, particularly if the weather plays havoc. In this case, they would have to acquire an alternative path for the activity.

The Use of Climbing Walls as a Training Aid

Climbing Blocks — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 09:20:16 +0000

While the techniques and sport of rock climbing was originally created as an outdoor sport and an offshoot of the methods developed for mountain climbing in the Victorian era, indoor rock climbing has now become the most popular way that people get their start learning how to climb, and for many people who live in parts of the world where it is inconvenient (or impossible) for them to reach a significant outdoor rock climbing location, indoor rock climbing provides a way for them to enjoy their hobby whenever they want. An indoor rock climbing wall is usually not made of rock, but of some kind of textured material including concrete and paint which is placed over a multiplex board.

For walls designed to help people learn the basics of climbing, hand holds are generally screwed onto the wall. A beginner’s rock climbing wall may be a simple vertical wall with regular hand holds spaces so that it is easy to move upwards – this helps a beginning rock climber get used to supporting his or her own body weight while scaling a wall. More advanced rock climbing walls can have more complicated surfaces and relatively fewer hand and foot holds to hang on to. However, it is unusual for indoor climbing walls to be completely devoid of hand holds and foot holds because unlike outdoor rock climbing surfaces, indoor surfaces do not generally make use of belaying equipment and the various kinds of anchors that damage the face of the rock. While the climber of an indoor rock wall may use a harness depending on the height of the wall and the lesson being taken, a primary method of protecting oneself from a fall is a thick padded surface below the wall. Climbers are also usually required to wear protective gear so that even in the event of a fall it is unlikely that they will suffer an injury.

While an indoor rock climbing wall does not provide the same degree of challenge as an outdoor area, it is significantly safer and it makes it possible for people who live in the city, far from suitable rock climbing locations, to learn how to climb and develop their skills. It also gives people a place that they can go to climb when the weather is not suitable for climbing (if it is rainy or snowy).

Artificial walls for rock climbing were first built in 1964 in Great Britain and have since spread around the world, with an increasing number of large gyms including rock climbing walls as one of the options that they provide for working into fitness routines. Indoor climbing walls can be designed with complex moulded features and the optimal routes, as well as more challenging routes, can be indicated with markings on the wall to help people visualize their goals and work towards conquering the more advanced paths up the climbing wall as they learn new techniques and better develop their climbing strength and coordination for climbing on a sheer rock face. And as a sport in itself it can be very exhilerating, and takes some beating.

How To Get Started With Indoor Rock Climbing

Climbing Blocks — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 22:03:48 +0000

Indoor rock climbing is the only sport that requires co-ordination between all five senses. The sport demands strength and endurance much more that any other physical sport. It also requires mental composure more than any strategy game. For many the sport may seem easy, but rock climbing needs continuous guidance from the basics till you finally reach the top.
Besides, rock climbing requires constant surveillance and guidance from coaches and experts. Every aspect of the sport needs to be mastered, even the equipment used in rock climbing is essential. The equipment does involve complex safety tools and headgear. Using faulty equipment or gear below the set standard would result in injuries and wounds that could scar you permanently.
Rock climbing is a popular sport in the United States with more and more people beginning to develop an interest in it. Over 100,000 athletes are involved in the sport of rock climbing, with the number increasing over the years. The sport is an all-season sport with climbing gyms located in most major cities. These gyms are open at nights, sometimes for the twenty-four hour/seven-day duration. Most rock-climbing gyms make an attempt to publicize the sport as much as they can. Therefore, if you join as a beginner, you may end up with a discount. In addition, the gym is the place to learn your basics, do away with your phobia of heights (if you have one) and then finally try your hand on outdoor rock climbing. If you are convinced about joining a rock-climbing gym, the following tips may guide you in the process:
The Climbing Gym location:
According to a recent survey, most rock-climbers are in their late 30s and early 40s. Also stated was that the climbers frequenting gym classes settle for this sport to keep fit. If you belong from this class of climbers, then you may need a gym that may be located close to your home or office. Increase your awareness, browse and enroll online as most of these gyms are listed in the US sports department. You will surely find a gym suitable for your needs and requirements.
Enroll for a Gym Class:
The kind of classes available would depend totally on the infrastructure present in the gym. Some gyms may offer small classes to begin with, while some may offer private tutorials. It all depends on the gym you visit. However, beginner courses are common in all gyms. These courses offer rentals, day use of the facilities and a several hour classes in a complete package. Teachers and technique could differ, but a common lesson taught in these gyms is safety, which is one lesson that should not be overlooked. Besides, the classes are the best places to get to know other people with the same interest.
Joining the Gym
On joining a gym, you should ensure regular attendance. After all, classes are expensive and you wouldn’t want to waste your hard earned money. Besides by joining, you can get better at climbing through practice and repetition.

Rock Climbing Tips For The Beginner

Climbing Blocks — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 11:19:55 +0000

Does Rock climbing thrill you? It is one of the most intense and adventurous sports. As a beginner you need to understand the basic techniques of rock climbing. The usual understanding about rock climbing is that you need lot of strength to start with, but this is not so. Rock climbing is all about moving decisively on a chosen path without losing control. Instead of thrashing and scrambling, you have to concentrate on reaching your goal.
Ensure that you are physically fit: If you are planning to take up rock climbing, you have to make sure that you are physically fit even before looking at any mountain. This is the basic requirement, as the more fit you are the safer your climb will be.
Choose the right gear that prevents you from getting injured: It is safe to go for a 5.11 tactical gear as it is recommended by most of the expert climbers. Tactical gear is very easy to use as well as durable. Ensure that you always wear a high quality multi-purpose belt to be on the safer side.
Being careful is the right way to avoid injuries: Though injuries take place very rarely, it is always advised to be more careful. Injuries are mostly due to carelessness and overexertion. Caution is the best option to prevent injuries while rock climbing. Stretching is the best exercise recommended for beginners. Start with a warm up to loosen up muscles and continue with the stretching exercises. This can be done simply by squeezing a tennis ball or using rubber bands to strengthen the hands and fingers. Even if you buy the prescribed gear for yourself, you have to keep checking the equipment regularly to prevent accidents. For example, check if the knots are loose or the equipment is worn out anywhere.
As a beginner go for easier routes: This is an easy way to practice without getting tired. While climbing, you should stay close to the wall for an easier climb. Straighten your arms and lean back when you are resting. Climbing is easier if you put more weight on your legs instead of your arms. Avoid dangling by your hands and use one foot at a time. There is no planned technique as such, but doing something that you are comfortable with is the best technique. It is not necessary that what works for others may be the best for you. You need to learn from your own experience.
Choose plastic boots instead of leather: Plastic boots are always better than leather boots. Plastic boots are warmer than the leather boots. They also prevent you from frostbites. Select a comfortable size.
Types of climbing: In traditional climbing you need to identify the routes and place your own safety gear. When you are climbing you can use combinations of stoppers, cams, hexes and pistons to protect yourself. Usually bouldering involves climbing free standing boulders and ropes are not used in this process. Always be careful when you are climbing down and keep an eye on the durability of your equipment.

Indoor Rock Climbing Walls Tips

Climbing Blocks — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 23:10:21 +0000

The climbing walls can take a lot of forms. Rock climbing walls are more realistic and it gives you the taste and adventure climbing steep rocks and outdoor rocking climbing. Almost all indoor rock climbing walls are made from plywood sheets. The plywood sheets anchors the rock climbing wall into the walls. You can set-up the segments of the rock climbing wall for a wider range of difficulty of levels and discover the unlimited possibilities of an indoor rock climbing adventure.
When you build your own indoor rock climbing wall, first you need to shop for the best equipments you will need like fasteners and handholds to secure your indoor rock climbing wall and these should be compatible. Secure one handhold every 3 square feet of the wall itself. For every two square feet of the wall you may have one handhold to foster optimum performance.
The fasteners and handhold must withstand against breakage in a span of one year. The length of your fasteners and handholds must be measured accurately. You must make sure that the climbing wall materials purchased are of high quality from highly recommended manufacturers. Next to look for are your ropes. You must see to it that they will withstand a lot of weight and tension.
The ropes should be made according to the U.I.A.A standards and guidelines regarding safety and kind of ropes to be used. For every belay bar there should be a rope similar for top-roping and lead climbing. The protective flooring is the most vital and essential part of indoor rock climbing walls. The floor must extend in a minimum of 6 feet around the entire vicinity of the climbing area.
The main purpose of the protective flooring is to prevent incurring injuries as well as to define the climbing area. For impact absorption, you may want to develop a flooring system made up of carpet. This will serve as a cushion during the descent and as shock absorbers as climbers try to break a fall. The flooring system such as a carpet helps control the dust from accumulating and it adds to the attractiveness of your wall climbing haven. You can also use pea gravel as well as chopped rubber as the main material for the flooring system.
These are alternative materials, which are used in place for carpets but still serve the purpose. Additional equipments for the indoor rock climbing wall are harness and a helmet for safety. With rock climbing there is a need for a wide array of gear.
A few ladders are also a must in your climbing routes. The height of your ladders must be six feet to full extension so that you will be able to reach the areas more efficiently. You can set-up climbing routes that will make your climbers sweat up and challenged to conquer these climbing routes.
Creating your own indoor rock climbing wall can be an enjoyable experience. You will soon find your families and friends gather around a new activity place that all of you can enjoy.