Try Slacklining to improve your balance, coordination and core strength for rock climbing

Dean Potter high lining

What is Slacklining?

When not in use a slackline closely resembles a tightrope, however as soon as it is weighted the likeness ends, the key difference between the two being the level of tension. Unlike a tightrope a slackline is loose and bouncy and can stretch right down to just inches off of the floor. Not only does the tension differ but so too does the line itself, as instead of being a rope nylon webbing is used providing a greater surface area upon which the user can balance.

It is thought that slacklining was born in Yosemite by two climbers Adam Growsky and Jeff Elllington during the early 1980’s as they took to walking across loose cables and chains within the national park, as word spread and popularity grew the sport progressed and became known the world over.

Why should you slackline?

I recently heard it stated ‘If I had the spare time to slackline I would be out climbing’ which I guess is a fair point but don’t let this deter you from trying it. Not only does slacklining improve balance, coordination and core strength (all transferable skills for rock climbing), its really great fun too! For those that need more than a 50cm fall to feed their adrenaline addiction check out the following video of Dean Potter ‘Highlining’ at 3,000ft without protection, a feat originally achieved by Scott Balcom in 1985.

What you need to get started

One of the really great things about slacklining is that it costs relatively little to get started and can be set up pretty much anywhere (including atop El Cap demonstrated in the video above) providing you have two anchor points between which you can set up your rig.

I purchased my (Gibbon) slackline from Amazon, the kit provides everything that you need to get started with a 50mm x 15m long line which ideal for beginners, plus a ratchet which is essential for achieving the desired level of tension.

How to Slackline

Granted there is not a great deal to slacklining, balance from one side of the line to the other, but there are some basic principles which, if adhered to will help you to progress.

Stand in place with your leading foot placed facing forward with all of your weight centered right above it, use your anchor for support.

Take a second to relax yourself, if you begin to shake you will loose control and plummet a matter of inches  – Intense I know!

Focus on a point on your horizon, such as a feature on the anchor, don’t, look straight down or that is where you will be heading.

Keep your back straight, let go of your anchor and stretch you arms out wide for stability, you may have noticed some raise their arms above their head – the principle remains the same.

As you take a step out bend your weighted leg and use your arms and free leg for balance as you slowly bring your second foot to the line, again facing forward remove your first foot – and repeat.

Remember as with anything slacklining takes a whole lot of practice, don’t be discouraged as you are most likely to fall of on your first step! Ultimately for me slacklining will never replace rock climbing however it is great fun, especially indoors when it’s wet or on rest days. Plus with the kit being so compact it can be easily rolled up and taken along on climbing expeditions.

For those who are new to the concept I hope that you have found this article informative and that you take the opportunity to give it a go, let me know how you get on with a comment below.