Hobbies And Interests
Static Versus Dynamic Climbing
Completing a climb relies on the judgment of which techniques and equipment to use when tackling a certain route. Sometimes, static climbing is called for when slow, deliberate movements are needed to get from one point of a mountain face to another. In other instances, a "dyno" (dynamic maneuver), which employs momentum to make short, fast jumps, is more efficient to get to holds out of static reach.
Extremity Jamming
Certain climbs can be achieved without tools or equipment. The techniques used in free climbing -- also known as "cracking" -- include jamming fingers, hands, or shoes in a crack or crevice for grip. Another maneuver uses the back of the heel to secure a foothold above you, from which you can push off to grab the next hold.
Bridging
Stemming, which is also referred to as "bridging", uses the strength of the legs to climb corners or large cracks. To perform this, spread the legs wide apart to bridge the gap and use small holds to propel the body upwards. "Smearing", a separate technique that uses friction to gain height, can also be used to complete this type of ascent. Egyptian bridging is a variation of this technique, wherein one foot is in front and the other is behind the body.
Rappelling
Putting ropes to work can manage certain maneuvers or even break a fall. One technique that uses this standard rock climbing gear is rappelling or "abseiling", a descending move that uses ropes in a secure point of anchor. Observing safety precautions is essential when performing this move. These precautions include proper body posture (no leaning in), making sure nothing gets caught (loose clothing, hair) in the belay device and watching the point of landing. Practicing in a controlled space beforehand is recommended to learn this skill.