Rock Climbing, Living Life on the Ledge

This week, the Extreme Team took our love for adventure over a cliff...and then climbed back up. We wanted to show that adventures could have an impact inside as well as out, so we went rockclimbing. The climbs indoor were fun and helpful for future climbs that we may want to take outside. We did a little bouldering out in Great Falls Park and had recieved great advice from climbers we met along the way. Here's our experience, the difference between indoor and outdoor climbing, and some helpful information as to how you can do it too! Join our Facebook Group for more updates: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=94820114645

The Outdoor Climb

The main difference with the outdoor climb is that there are generally no instructors to ensure that safety requirements are being met. Before attempting any type of harnessed climb outdoors it is important to take a safety instruction class. Another thing is that you should probably invest in your own climbing equipment.

Climbing outside doesn’t always include expensive equipment. Bouldering (lower level rock-climbing that does not involve the use of a rope and consists of short climbs in areas where a fall would not result in serious injury) is very mild and the only requirement is that the adventurer wears sturdy shoes. A good place for both bouldering and rope climbing is Great Falls Park (http://www.nps.gov/grfa/) which in addition to housing some amazing views, also has some great rugged terrain to explore.

Indoor Programs

Sportrock hosts many programs for indoor rock climbers. Providing the Northern Virginia Community with a premier rock climbing experience, Sportrock has 2 locations within the area. The closest program is Sterling, where the Extreme Team adventured out this week.

There are many classes, varying by skill level, some designed for beginners and others for experienced climbers. The basic skills class instruction includes how to use the ropes, belay system and the essentials safety skills in order to climb. The minimum age to attend the class is 14 years old and safety equipment and shoes can be rented at the facility for a small fee.

The Fast Forward program is a climbing movement class that teaches basic footwork and sequencing to turning and dynamic movements for climbers. They also offer a physical training class that teaches how to lead climb and belay.

The classes and climbing are not only for adults. Kids have camps and programs of their own to learn and perfect their climbing skills. Camps run from June to August in week long sessions. They consist of basic camps and advanced camps.

Sportrock also hosts parties; lock-in’s, Kids nights and other fun activities for groups. For more information contact Sportrock at www.sportrock.com

The Indoor Climb

In order to be a successful wall scaler, there is one important piece of advice--follow the tape. With all of the handholds located on the climbing wall, it becomes somewhat confusing as to where one is going to launch a plan of attack. It is vastly important to think logically and not to panic while making this decision. There is no need to panic since each climber is strapped safely into a harness, which is often reinforced with two carabiners and double knots.

Another piece of advice; cut your nails. Long nails can make it difficult to grasp small handholds. It was also somewhat surprising to learn that while being able to grasp the fixtures with your hands is important, it is not nearly as important as foot placement. Make sure that you are firmly anchored by your feet before you try to launch your body towards upwards to a new grip.

Climbing indoors is a great activity for a rainy day. It is also a phenomenal workout, which is why some people prefer a monthly membership at rock-climbing facilities rather than paying monthly to frequent a standard gym. Wall-climbing passes the basic exercise test--the next day you'll be sore in muscles that you didn't know even existed.

Outdoor Programs

Sportrock also hosts outdoor training programs that include an Outdoor basic skills class, top rope anchors system 1 and 2, and private guiding. The teachers at Sportrock will provide training at Great Falls Park and guide you as you try your hands-on training.

They also provide training and guidance to Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts who want to attain their Adventure Badge or Merit Badge in rock climbing.

The outdoor basic class will teach novice outdoor climbers the safety skills to climb in a non controlled area. The minimum age for this class is 12-years old.

Remember to always bring your safety equipment, sun block, and sturdy shoes when attending classes or climbing in general.

Other classes held by Sportrock can be found on their website or at their locations in Sterling and Alexandria.

For our in depth video and interviews check out the Extreme Team Online at www.Loudouni.com