Get a Grip - On a Rock!

[60 Minutes]

Bouldering or rock climbing on boulders is a great way to challenge your strategy building capabilities as well as your balance and coordination. It's not about strength - it's about seeing the opportunities to get a good grip - so you don't fall. Call a friend and climb - no equipment needed!

You'll need:

• very flexible soft rubber soled shoes or sneakers • large boulders - a little taller than you if possible • comfortable clothes to move in - preferably clothes that do not restrict your movement in any way • a small first aid kit for small cuts and abrasions - just in case! • water • a friend to rock climb with you

What to do:

1. If possible, print out these directions. Read them through before you begin.
2. Gather everything you'll need and always remember exercise safety.
3. Scout out areas for very large rocks and boulders that just scream for you to climb on them! When you pick your area - scout it out for dangerous obstacles or potential situations - such as protruding or overhanging branches, deep holes or crevasses between rocks, or sharp or broken areas of the rock. Also look for other hazards such as broken glass.
4. When you are done with your safety check - check out your rock of choice. Look at how you can not only scale the rock (get up on top of it), but how you can make your way around the rock without touching the ground. Are there hand holds or foot holds for you to hang on and then continue around it? Experiment with one small area of the rock. Get onto the side of the rock by placing your foot onto what seems to be a good foot hold. Keep a lot of weight on your foot - reach for what seems to be a good hand hold.
5. In this position - look to your next foot or hand holds and climb around the rock. Expect to fall - but your falls should be no more than small ones - 2-3 feet - no more than that (measuring from your feet to the ground).
6. Let your climbing buddy scout out the rock as you climb - advising you where to reach if she sees a potential hold.
7. Now, let your friend climb - guiding her using your recent experience!
8. This is a great way to challenge your body - in balance and coordination. Pick your next rock - and get a grip!

Useful information:

I always thought rock climbing was only for adventuresome people that lived in the mountains. We found some big rocks near where we live and my dad and I started to climb them. It is good when you start out slowly and on a rock you can conquer. Someday, I hope to do some serious rock climbing. (Tasha, age 14)