Modern rock climbing can be traced to the exploits of early mountaineers, whose climbing to launch a surprise attack on enemy troops, and quests for spiritual enlightenment, led to traditional climbing and the use of pitons and homemade chockstones as aids in protecting the climber from any potential falls.
Rock climbing became a sport back in 1786 with the first ascent of Mont Blanc. This historic climb opened the Unique Age of Mountaineering. For the next century, peak after peak was conquered just for sport, mostly by the English gentry.
In the early days of climbing, the goal was simply to reach the summit; climbers took the easiest possible route, and often carried ladders, grappling hooks, and other devices that had been used to storm castles in medieval times. But once all the major peaks of the Alps had been climbed, mountaineers started exploring more difficult routes on peaks that had already been climbed.
In its simplest form, Climbing is the act of going up, whether it is on a hill, mountain, or artificial wall. It comes in many different types, styles, and variations. A lot of developments have happened since the beginning until rock climbing became a sport in its own right, and it continues to gain popularity at present. People from all walks of life are getting enthralled in this challenging sport. Climbing Techniques as well as gear and equipment have been developed and improved for climbers to better enjoy all that Rock Climbing has to offer.
Rock Climbing can be a very fun and exciting experience for the whole family; however, it can come with many unexpected aspects. It is encouraged that before you begin any rock climbing adventure to think about the various risks and dangers involved. Such as:
Broken Bones- One very common danger the might occur is broken bones, which can be the result of a fall. Broken bones can also be attributed to not working out or stretching before you go rock climbing, which would make your bones tight and not as limber as they should be for such a physical activity.
Death- Death is one of those dangers that is a rare occurrence but should be acknowledged by any climber. Death in this sport is often associated with falling from a high altitude which might be a result of the harness not being strapped properly. However, death can also occur from dehydration or perhaps experience a sudden heart attack. Not many people realize how many different factors can contribute to death while rock climbing.
Muscle Strains- Because rock climbing can become repetitive (especially for avid climbers), muscle strains are a big issue. The reason muscle strains are so common is because the climber often uses the same muscle groups over and over to lift yourself higher. Strains are also a danger because they can cause a climber to severely injure themselves on the rocks and this can result in a fall or other serious accident.
Climbers should not let these dangers deter you from having a wonderful experience but should be aware of them all the same (for your safety and for those around you).
Equipment-
For physical fitness, fun and, yes, adrenaline, nothing beats rock climbing. Despite its daredevil reputation, rock climbing can be enjoyed safely by any reasonably fit person with proper instruction and equipment.
Climbing Harness- Your harness allows you to tie into the rope safely and efficiently. The harness consists of 2 parts:
Waistbelt: This sits over the hips and must fit snugly.
Leg loops: One loop goes around each leg. Many harnesses conveniently offer adjustable or removable leg loops.
Rock Climbing Shoes- The right climbing shoes will protect your feet while providing the necessary friction you will need to grip the footholds. Your climbing ability and the location of where you climb are big factors in choosing the correct shoe.
Climbing Helmet- A helmet should always be worn when climbing. The helmet is designed to cushion your head from falling rocks and debris. The helmet should feel comfortable and should fit snugly but not too tight.
Clothing- The clothes you wear should be comfortable and not restricting. Most people prefer to climb wearing shorts and a T-shirt, remember, this does not need to be a fashion statement. It is most important that your clothing allow you to spread your legs wide enough so that you can reach the different footholds.
These are just a few of the equipment needed to start your rock climbing adventure.
For complete information and where to buy these essentials and many more visit http://www.rockclimbing.com/gear/ can offer you belay devices and descenders, carabiners, harnesses for adults and kids, helmets and other protection items, high strength and top quality climbing ropes, chalk bags, and various sized crash pads.
You can be a novice and experience the thrill of rock climbing. Just as this kid is doing in the photo.What are you waiting for? Grab your gear and head out for a grand rock climbing adventure!
After you rock hard challenge, rest and relax at our comfortable and easy rentals in Mammoth-------> Mammoth Rental By Owner.com (818)883-2488
Reference:
http://sports.yahoo.com/top/news?slug=ycn-8734133
http://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/ ... mbing.html
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( 3 / 4276 )Where am I? Do you know?
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( 3 / 7277 )White Winter Weddings in Mammoth
For your special day, why not be in a canopy of freshly fallen snow in one of the most beautiful places in the world? White Winter Weddings in Mammoth Mountain are truly spectacular events that will make your special day as enchanting as you have ever dreamed. With views overlooking snowy mountaintops, Mammoth is perfect for those couples who enjoy breathtaking scenery. It is not just a place for skiing and snowboarding anymore. Its magical!
Mammoth Mountain is an 11,000-foot summit, making it one of the highest peaks in California. Getting married here is an experience of a lifetime. After saying, “I do”, why not take all your guests for a gondola ride for a birds-eye view of the town below? Your wedding guests will be ecstatic about the views that Mammoth has to offer. Or enjoy skiing down the mountain with your better half as your first adventure as a couple. Reciting your vows for the first time in front of your loved ones is a very special event. Why not make it one to remember at Mammoth Mountain?
Venues at Mammoth include the Top of Mammoth Mountain, Forest Chapel, the Top of the Sierra, McCoy Sundeck, the Mill Sundeck, Dry Creek Sundeck, Sierra Star Golf Course, and the June Mountain Overlook. Whatever venue you choose, it is sure to be a day to remember as you embark on an adventure of a lifetime with your loved ones.
The snow in Mammoth is like no other place in the world. The plush snowflakes make it the perfect place to say “I do.” The possibilities for exploration are endless, and what better what to unite your family, than by going to a place of the utmost exquisiteness.
After the nuptial, be sure to stay in Mammoth for skiing, snowboarding, camping, fishing, and hiking! Mammoth is one of the most unique places to get married, so be sure to book your date soon!
For accommodations for your guests and yourself visit MammothRentalByOwner.com or give us a call at (818)883-2488
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( 3 / 5010 )Birdwatching (birding called by most) is the observation of birds for recreational purposes. Although most people bird watch for entertainment there are some who study birds for more scientific reasons (ornithologists).
Bird watching can be done with the naked eye, or using visual enhancement devices such as binoculars or telescopes, or even by listening to bird sounds. What may not be known is that birdwatching often involves a significant auditory (listening) component, since many bird species are more easily detected by the ear than the eye.
The earliest interest in observing birds mainly for their aesthetic value can be traced to the late 18th century. Before, people were only interested in collecting birds for their eggs and skins. Wealthy collectors would make use of their connections to obtain specimens from around the world. Because of such actions, in the 19th century the call for bird protection became necessary and this lead to the rising popularity of observations on living birds.
Birding in North America was focused in the early and mid-20th century. The organization and networking of those interested in birds began through organizations like the Audubon Society that was against the killing of birds. With the rising popularity of the car this increased the mobility of birdwatchers and this made new locations accessible to those interested in birds.
Today many dedicated bird watchers find prestige in knowing the variation of bird species. There are 5.8 million bird watchers in the U.S. (more than the number of residents in Wisconsin). This is a huge army of trackers decked out in sturdy hiking boots and nylon rain gear, consulting their smartphones to identify or imitate a particular quarry.
Where to plan your next bird watching adventure-
For a truly wonderful experience Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra offers spectacular beauty and fantastic birding opportunities. You may even get an opportunity to see a Bald Eagle in flight or catching a fish. Other birds popular to the area are: Peregrine Falcon, Prairie Falcon, Red-tailed Hawk, Cliff Swallows, Yellow-rumped Warbler, Hummingbirds, Mountain Bluebird, American Goldfinch, and the ever popular Steller’s Jay. These are just a few of the amazing species that you will get a chance to see and admire.
Mono Lake is ideal when it comes to birding. It is a salty, alkaline inland sea home to brine shrimp, alkali flies, and the millions of birds that feed on them. One of the best-known birds is the California Gull. Mono Lake is home to the second largest California Gull rookery in North America (Great Salt Lake is the largest). Approximately 50,000 California Gulls arrive in spring and will feed, mate, select a nest site and lay their eggs. One of the most amazing experiences you will ever have!
Bird watching is a relatively inexpensive activity. There are only a few basic tools that are needed to give you a good start, clothing, field guide, and binoculars.
Birders can dress in any clothes they wish and they will still see birds, but choosing the right attire to wear while birding can help you see more birds more easily. Savvy birders plan their field wardrobe carefully to maximize their birding.There are a variety of factors to consider when choosing your birdwatching clothes:
Comfort- clothing should be comfortable, this will encourage you to stay in the field longer. Clothes should also be well worn to avoid chafing and blisters.
Function- clothing that is functional is a must. Clothes with pockets (i.e., cargo pants) to hold field guides, notebook and other useful tools are highly recommended. Shoes especially should have good ankle support.
Color- when out in the field, it is important to wear clothes that blend into the environment. Birds frighten easily so wearing camouflage colors will allow you to explore and better enjoy the birds in their habitat.
Beautiful birds are often small or too far away to see well without the help of quality birding equipment.
Binoculars-the most important tool a birder will have is a binocular. A high quality binocular will allow you to see feather details and identify birds from hundreds of feet away.
Bird Spotting Scopes- A spotting scope is a compact telescope is designed to enhance magnifications beyond the range of a typical binocular. Spotting scopes are ideally suited for such activities as long distance birdwatching and nature studies.
Field Guide-of course every birder needs a good field guide. A guide will help (especially novice birders) identify certain bird’s species with details and illustrations.
Birds can be seen all year round, but there are certain times of year that are more productive for birders interested in seeing a wide range of easily identified species.
Spring and fall migration are two of the best times to see many birds. During migration, gregarious species gather in large groups that are easier to see. Birders can also be treated to roaming birds that have become disoriented along their migration routes, and depending on a species' individual route, it may pause between its breeding and wintering ranges in areas that make it very accessible to many birders far outside the bird's typical ranges.
While many bird species migrate and may not be around during the winter months, that action can easily work in birders' favor. Northern species, including Arctic birds, may move south due to weather interruptions that will bring them easily into birders' home ranges, providing unique opportunities to see species that may otherwise be out of reach. Other species on view specifically during the winter are the pine siskin, which feasts on pine cone seeds, the white-winged crossbill and the snow bunting, a mostly white sparrow-type bird.
So no matter what season it is--summer, fall, winter or spring --opportunities await to view many species of birds.
Need a comfy place to stay after a day of bird watching? Visit MammothRentalByOwner.com and have a restful evening. Give us a call at (818)883-2488
References:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Birdwatching
http://birding.about.com/od/birdingbasi ... irding.htm
Yes we have seagulls in Mammoth Lakes
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