Rock Climbing Has Become a Popular Sport

Rock climbing has become a popular sport and recreation activity over the last few decades.

Although danger might be part of the appeal of rock climbing, many feel that the real lure is the mental and physical requirements of the sport (Schneider Pp). Wade Polglase, who confesses to having tried almost every kind of sport, from organized group sports to mountain biking, says that rock climbing was the first one that required thinking as much as or even more than physical ability (Schneider Pp). And while different forms of outdoor rock climbing have always been around, it has only been in the last couple of decades that people have been drawn to indoor climbing because it offered them somewhere to practice during the off season and is an excellent way to gain experience in a safe environment (Schneider Pp).

No experience is required for indoor climbing, however, a partner is needed when climbers are belaying, although the belayer, does not need to be similar in size, but they do have to be twelve years of age of older, according to most indoor businesses (Schneider Pp). Belaying requires someone to feed the rope as the climber scales the wall; the rope is attached to a device that tightens if the climber falls, allowing the climber to fall only about two inches (Schneider Pp). Bouldering, climbing up to eight feet without a rope, involves moves that are more difficult, shorter and more intense (Schneider Pp).

For outdoor climbing, it's important to have a partner that is in similar physical condition (Schneider Pp). Polglase says that rock climbing not only builds trust, but muscles as well, and that "after doing this for a while, your body type and weight will change ... There's no way around it" (Schneider Pp). According to Polglase, to get started in indoor climbing will cost about $110 for everything including shoes, harness and chalk bag, while outdoor climbing is more expensive (Schneider Pp).

Rock climbing has become a popular activity offered by many camps, and while climbing adds challenge and excitement to camp programs, it is important to minimize and control the risk without reducing the excitement, thrill, challenge and fun associated with the activity, therefore it is essential for management to consider all parts of the program in relation to safety and to be prepared for the unexpected (Attarian Pp).