Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is the activity in which one climbs either a mountain or other rock formations. These climbers will generally use gear and equipment which is designed to keep them safe, and which assists them in their task. There are a number of characteristics that climbers need to have while performing this activity, and some of them include endurance, strength, and a great deal of mental endurance. This is important, as rock climbing often requires them to ascend terrain, and the activity itself is often considered to be dangerous. Having a knowledge of equipment and climbing techniques is critically important.
If you're not familiar with rock climbing, the first thing you should know is that two climbers will often work together. One climber will ascend the terrain, and the other will perform a task called belaying. During the process of lead climbing, the belayer will be responsible for feeding rope to the lead climber, and this will be done through the belay device. The leader will continue to ascend higher, and he/she will place bolt hangers in specific locations until they reach the top. The belayer can "lock off" to protect the leader if they should fall. Both must be responsible for connecting the rope to the harness they use for climbing.
The rope will be tied to the harness, and it must be tied in a special manner called the "figure of eight loop." Another method called the "double bowline knot" can also be used to tie the rope to the harness. If the climbers are performing sports climbing, the leader will be responsible for putting down his own protection. If the pair is involved in sports climbing, the leader must put up clips into a location that is permanent. During traditional climbing, the protection can be taken off. A special nut can be placed within cracks inside the rock. During the sports climbing event, metal loops called bolts will be used.
The lead climber will also be responsible for connecting the protection to the rope via carabiners. Quickdraws can be used as well. If the leader should fall, he will be protected. However, the fall could be shorter or longer depending on whether or not the equipment breaks or comes out of the rock. If the belayer can quickly lock off the belay device, the fall will be short. With free climbing, the climber will ascend using his own strength, though equipment may be available to protect him.
