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Facts on safety are out of website http://www.lifeessentialsbyzee.com/zee/safety/zLifeE_safety_sports_027.html
Injuries
Although falls and other accidents do occur, especially in outdoor climbing
where safety measures are up to the outdoor enthusiast, they are rare.
Overuse injuries are much more common. The most vulnerable areas include
the hand, wrist and elbows. Stress rotational force at the fingertips
and knuckle joints can cause rupture of tendons. The positions required
maneuvering up a rock face also call for one-armed holds, thus putting
the shoulder at risk for rotator cuff tears or impingement situations.
In addition, muscle strains in the lower extremity may result from reaching
for toeholds with the legs and hips. As with any outdoor sport, it is
best to enroll in a class to learn basis climbing and safety techniques.
Injury Prevention
Proper conditioning and warm ups take care of potential sprains, strains
and other such injuries. It's most important for new climbers, who are
particularly at risk for overuse, to enter the sport gradually. The
demands on the entire body, from head to toe and in between, challenge
areas that may not be used regularly. Develop a routine that allows
for stretching of the arms, neck, shoulders, back and legs. These stretches
should be done after a five to ten minute warm period. Target the forearm
and fingers by squeezing a worn-out tennis ball. Using rubber bands
for resistance around the fingers is one more at-home exercise you can
try. Basic push-ups and pull-ups to enhance upper body strength will
go a long way toward helping you conquer a rock face.
Gear up
Taping between the finger joints, around wrists, fingers, and elbows
can add support and protection for the tendons. Also, you can reduce
skin abrasions by taping the back of the hands and wrists in a figure
eight pattern for minimal restriction. Treat and prevent blisters by
taping fingers and using chalk to keep fingers from drying and to reduce
friction. Check your knots, harness buckle, belay, and rappel system
frequently. It is crucial that you inspect your gear regularly and replace
worn equipment immediately. Invest in a good pair of climbing shoes
- the tops are generally leather that is only finished on the outside,
and the soles are composed of a sticky rubber compound. Also, remember
that wearing a helmet could save your life.
Prepare mentally
Mental preparation is a vital
part of the rock climbing experience. Taking time before and after a
climbing session to focus on relaxation can help with the mindset needed
to achieve greater confidence and success. Recreational climbing can
be exhilarating for the mind and body. Challenge yourself and your body,
but be sure to proceed with tempered enthusiasm.
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