Avoiding Rock Climbing Aches And Bruises
Aazdak Alisimo
Rock climbing might sound like one of those sports that only the hyper agressive will try. Once you give it a try, however, you'll be hooked. You will also notice that even a short climbing session can leave sore. Yes, avoiding injuries is a big issue.
Whether you are climbing for fun, sport or to reach some amazing height, there is no denying it is a sport unlike anything else. It also, however, puts unique stresses on your muscles and joints, which can lead to big problems.
Most of us simply do not work the muscles used in climbing. Shoulders, stomach, arms and backs may seem like they get plenty of work, but climbing for even 30 minutes will quickly reveal that is not the case. Simply put, you are going to get a major workout.
If you are going to get serious about climbing, you really need to get a conditioning program in place. Although you want to be in good shape overall, certain areas must be given emphasis or you will find your joints starting to really take a pounding.
The first place to work on is your shoulders. They are the fulcrum point when you climb and carry a lot of weight. The exercises are well known and simple. You want to do pull ups and lat pull downs. Go for larger reps instead of weight.
While your shoulders carry a lot of weight, your hands are doing the intricate work. They are where you make contact with the climbing surface and they take a beating. Try to use tape if you can to minimize the horror.
It is always important to follow a day of climbing with an adult beverage or two. If you want to actually hold your beverage or glass, you must work on your forearms. Climbing will torque them because of all the grips used.
Don't you love watching all the manly men working out in front of the mirrors in gyms. While you need to get into shape for climbing, you want to emphasize strength over big muscles. Go for many reps at lower weights.
Ever since you first started working out, you've been told to warm up first. This is incredibly important with climbing. Give your joints a good twirl and stretch those muscles. If you don't, you can pull something or worse and ruin your day.
Aazdak Alisimo writes about rock climbing for NomadJournals.com - keep track of your climbs with http://www.nomadjournals.com/climbing.cfm) bouldering journals at NomadJournals.com.
|
