Rock Climbing: All You Need to Know
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But before you decide to get out of your house and climb the nearest summit, you will need to learn several climbing techniques (drop knee, match, foot switch, high step, cross through etc.), hand techniques (pinch, sloper, crimp, gaston, side pull ), and foot techniques (edging, flagging, smearing, backstepping, toe hook ). Take classes and practice bouldering before taking on the more risky routes.
| Rock climbing gear It is extremely important that you procure the right rock climbing equipment before you head out to climb the cliffs. Make sure you have the following essentials: Belay devices Descenders Safety harnesses Climbing ropes and webbing Carabiners Crash pads Protective gear (helmets, Camalot Cams, Pitons, Hooks, Astro nuts, tricams, hex etc.) and climbing shoes Quickdraws Slings Chalk bags, medical tape, resin, bouldering mats, and haul bags |
| Rock climbing spots in South Africa Thanks to its mountainous terrain and craggy shores, South Africa has some amazing and diverse rock climbing routes, some of which are still unexplored! No matter which region you're in, you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to rock climbing in South Africa. Try the following spots (difficulty levels vary; start with the easier ones): Western Cape - Multipitch Climbs, Vanrhynsdorp, Montagu, Swartberg Pass, Table Mountain and Krakadouw. Eastern Cape - Pinnacle Gorge, Kleinrivier, Morgan Bay, Windmill Hole and Hogsback. Limpopo Province - Blouberg, Makapansgat, and Wellingtons Dome. Mpumalanga - Croc River Canyon, Waterval Boven, Blydepoort and Wilgepoort. Gauteng - Melville Koppies, The Chosspile, Strubens Valley and Bronkhorstspruit. Although rock climbing can be risky and requires a lot of stamina, its rewards are immense. First, it affords you breathtaking views that very few people will ever be able to see in their lifetimes. Physically, rock climbing builds endurance, burns calories, keeps your heart healthy, sculpts your muscles, and makes you more agile. The mental benefits of rock climbing are also significant; it gives you a tremendous sense of achievement, personal satisfaction and boosts your self-esteem. |
