101 Critical Days of Summer - Rock Climbing Published Aug. 3, 2010 By Ground Safety Air Force Flight Test Center EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- In the United States, the sport of rock climbing has become popular, and more people are beginning to take it up. Here at Edwards, rock climbing is as close as the Oasis pool or Joshua Park. The sport has evolved into an affordable, safe and year-round activity, due largely to the number of indoor climbing gyms. There is no denying that climbing is a dangerous sport. The higher off the ground, the greater the risk becomes. Safety depends on a person's skills and physical conditioning. Upper body strength, flexibility and sheer determination are other requirements as well. First off, a person must be in moderately good to excellent physical health before trying to rock climb. Physical conditioning is a very important part of rock climbing and the more fit a person is, the safer the climb will be. But what about climbing equipment? Yes, some equipment is involved in this new venture. Climbers will need a properly fitting helmet made of fiberglass, carbon or plastic that has a chin strap and sits close to the head with slight tipping towards the forehead. Basic climbing shoes are also a must to prevent foot injuries and help the climber stay on the rock. Many climbers do not like to use gloves as it can lessen the grip, but rocks can be tough on hands, especially ones that are not used to being pushed and rubbed up against rough surfaces. Climbers will also need a harness, belay, carabineers, webbing and monolithic or SLCD protection. Indoor rock climbing gyms usually have equipment to use and professionals who can answer questions about which types and brands of equipment are best to purchase. Proper conditioning and warm-ups can take care of potential sprains, strains and other such injuries. It's most important for new climbers, who are particularly at risk of over-exertion, to enter the sport gradually. The demands on the entire body, from head to toe and in between, can challenge areas that may not have been used on a regular basis. 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-up period. Target the forearms and fingers by squeezing a worn-out tennis ball. Using rubber bands for resistance around the fingers is an at-home exercise easly done. Basic push-ups and pull-ups to enhance upper body strength will go a long way toward helping conquer a rock face. Mental preparation is a vital part of rock climbing. Taking time before and after a climbing session to focus on relaxation can help the climber's mind achieve greater confidence and success. Recreational climbing can be exhilarating for the mind and body, participants say. As with any number of the101 Critical Days of Summer activities that can easily be taken up, all require careful planning and execution in order for everyone involved to have a safe and enjoyable time.