Abseiling is one of the most challenging and potentially dangerous activities that you can ever participate in. You have to do everything possible to mitigate the effects of gravity and falling as you strive to climb steep rock walls. In order for you to abseil safely and successfully, try the following smart techniques:
1. Get the Right Abseiling Gear
Buy all the necessary abseiling gear such as helmet, belay plate, gloves, defenders, ascenders, knee and elbow pads, a chalk bag, a rope, climbing shoes, and other protective clothing and learn how to use them. Do not go for the cheapest solutions even if you want to save money because you might end up regretting later. Visit a reputable local rock climbing store and ask for high-quality equipment. Make sure each equipment is a perfect fit; neither too loose nor too tight for you.
2. Warm Up and Stretch
Prior to climbing, it is very important for you to warm up and stretch your body for about thirty minutes. This will not only improve your flexibility and blood circulation, but will also make your ligaments, tendons, and muscles less susceptible to injuries during the climbing session. With increased blood flow to your muscles, you will also have enough strength to climb the rocks to the best of your ability. If you would like to know more about how to warm up, please visit http://climber.co.nz/79/feature/warming-rock-climbing
3. Preview and Read the Route
Climbing routes vary dramatically in complexity and once you settle on a particular ascent, it can be very hard for you to stop or return. Therefore, before you start climbing, take your time to visualise the sequences through the route from the ground to the top. Anticipate weight, grips, balance, and every move through the route. This will help you know where to hold and step and avoid dangerous spots as you go up.
4. Get the Right Grip
For you to have a perfect grip when climbing, you have to relax your mind and body. Getting anxious and over-gripping will only wear out your arms and make you weak. The greater the grip tension, the more the fluidity and smoothness in your climbing movement will get affected, which will in turn interfere with your climbing performance. Get into the habit of mentally checking your grip every now and then. This will allow you to calm yourself and re-check the basics so that you can think properly and remain conscious as continue climbing. For more tips on how to maintain a good grip, visit http://www.rockclimbtips.com/rock-climbing-how-to-climbing-training-on-gripping-technique/
5. Stay Close to the Wall
Keeping your body close to the wall not only increases the effectiveness of your footholds and minimises the amount force your arms need to grip the walls, but also decreases the distance you have to move in order to reach the next hold. This is the type of climbing technique used by professional abseilers such as the employees of Sussex Rope Access. Visit http://sussexropeaccess.co.uk/ to know more about expert abseiling from the company.
6. Find Rest Spots
Talking a rest once in a while allows you to gather enough strength and courage to cover the remaining distance. The best time to identify a rest spot is while you are still on the ground or as you ascend the route. A rest spot can be an edge to lean against or an overhang where you can place your knee.
7. Take a Good Fall
Whether you are a professional or novice abseiler, you will have to fall at some point as it is part of the game. Whenever you are about to fall, look down for a safe spot and then push yourself away from the wall. For more tips on how to fall safely, visit http://www.climbing.com/skill/how-to-fall/