It's the feeling of moving over rock -- along with sharing a passion for the sport with fellow climbers and traveling to climb new routes -- that lead people to follow a life of climbing, according to Tony Lourens, author of "Complete Climbing Manual." Perhaps of greater significance, though, is the fact that the sport offers long-term health benefits that may contribute to physical well-being later in life.
Significance
Although rock climbing may be a competitive sport for some, for most it's a recreational activity pursued for personal pride and enjoyment. The sport requires physical, technical and mental skills, the learning of which never stops, says Malcolm Creasey in "The Complete Rock Climber." Whether you're a child or a retiree, your age, height and weight need not be limitations. There are rock climbing levels that can include everyone, so rock climbing can, in fact, be enjoyed over a lifetime.
The Facts
Rock climbing increases aerobic and anaerobic endurance, strength and flexibility. According to "The Outdoor Athlete," anaerobic endurance is enhanced by climbing short, steep and overhanging routes, while climbing longer, sustained routes promotes aerobic endurance. Both aerobic and anaerobic exercise improve cardiovascular function and body composition. The process of climbing itself involves stretching your limbs to reach hand and foot holds, then lifting your body weight to progress to the next hold, the combination of which increases strength and flexibility. As a result, your muscles become stronger and more toned which, in turn, boosts your metabolism and sheds fat. According to health and fitness website ShapeFit, this combination of cardiovascular and strength exercise can burn up to 380 calories in 30 minutes.
Long-Term Benefits
Since rock climbing improves cardiovascular function, body composition, flexibility and strength, practicing the sport for a lifetime helps prevent conditions that may occur later in life. According to MedlinePlus, benefits of cardiovascular and strength training include lowering the risk of heart attack, high blood pressure, obesity, osteoporosis, cancer and stroke.
Riccardo Cassin
You need only consider well known climber Riccardo Cassin to appreciate the lifetime allure of rock climbing. Cassin, who lived from Jan. 2, 1909 to Aug. 6, 2009, began rock climbing at a young age and claimed numerous first ascents. At age 85 he climbed the route in Italy known as Luna Nascente; until age 95 he still included 30 minutes of pushups and situps in his daily training schedule.
Warning
According to "Advanced Rock Climbing," it is an inherently dangerous sport that could injure or kill you. Therefore, it is crucial that you seek training from an experienced instructor or guide before attempting the sport.
References
- "Complete Climbing Manual"; Tony Lourens; 2005
- "The Complete Rock Climber"; Malcolm Creasey; 2006
- "The Outdoor Athlete"; Courtenay Schurman, Doug Schurman; 2009
- Shapefit: Cardio Exercises That Burn Calories
- MedlinePlus: Exercise and Weight Loss
- Climbing: Riccardo Cassin -- The Full Interview; Federica Valabrega
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