• Approximately 35 new techniques, safety considerations, and subjects • National Outdoor Book Award winner in first edition • First edition of this popular title has sold 50,000 copies Thousands of rock climbers have learned the sport using Craig Luebben’s seminal and bestselling text, Rock Climbing: Mastering Basic Skills. Now Craig’s friend and fellow climber Topher Donahue brings the content up to current standards and includes technological advances, while preserving Craig’s comprehensive approach. An award-winning climber in his own right, Topher uses his writing and photography skills to simplify the complex world of modern climbing technique and reveals the thought process behind safe and practical climbing methods. This second edition includes European climbing techniques that offer alternatives to those traditionally taught in North America. Topher has also incorporated new lessons derived from accidents due, in part, to the increased popularity of climbing. Also found in this edition: • Over 10,000 more words and 125 more photos • Three never-before-published techniques: Adjustable Hitch, High Friction Tubes, and Bight Method • Detailed technical updates throughout • New distinction between “anchor” (a group of placements, pieces, or bolts used at the end of a pitch or for top rope or rappel setup) and “placement” or “piece” (individual cams, nuts, etc., used in groups to make an anchor or used individually as protection on a pitch)

Provides an introduction to the sport of rock climbing, along with information on the sport's history, styles of climbing, equipment, techniques, popular sites for climbing, and some of the dangers.

This book provides the ultimate guide to rock climbing in the United States, suitable for climbers and nonclimbers alike, covering the technical and physical aspects of the sport as well as the mental challenges involved. Rock Climbing: The Ultimate Guide covers the history of rock climbing in the United States from its origins to the present day, documenting the importance and vitality of the popular sport. The chapters address topics such as the technicalities of the equipment and clothing, training methods, key places and events where the sport takes place, the different types of rock that climbers challenge themselves on, past and present rock climbing heroes who inspire today's climbers, and the evolution of the sport over the years—for example, in terms of climbers' sporting achievements and its growing global appeal. The book also covers the sport from an unprecedented perspective that only the author—an experienced climber and social scientist—could provide, discussing the meaning of extreme sports in our culture, issues of gender, why climbing can serve an individual focused on personal achievement and satisfy those seeking to be part of a community, and how climbers come to terms with the inherent risks of the sport.

Rock climbing can be the fun and exhilarating, and the best part is that it is an activity that also helps you stay healthy and fit. Students will learn more about how they can start climbing, the importance of good equipment, and the health benefits of rock climbing.

Describes the history, equipment, and contemporary practice of rock climbing.

Updated for 2020. Discover the exciting sport of rock climbing. Examine safety equipment and the preparations necessary to scale steep rock walls.

Examines many aspects of rock climbing, including equipment, fundamental skills, and ways to get started.

Rock climbing has been growing in popularity since the 1930s, and it’s no wonder. This exciting activity lets you spend time in the outdoors while challenging yourself both physically and mentally and bonding with friends and family. With the increasing availability of a variety of climbing venues, including indoor climbing gyms, it’s easier than ever to try rock climbing. Rock Climbing is the perfect book for anyone who wants to develop the skills. Rock Climbing will help you explore one of the world’s fastest-growing activities safely and successfully. The experts at the Wilderness Education Association ensure you learn proper technique, which is essential to a safe and enjoyable experience. They prepare you for your adventure with information on fitness and conditioning, equipment and gear selection, and nutrition. Safety skills are integrated throughout the book. You’ll learn how you can use indoor climbing to practice basic skills before moving on to refine and build on those skills in the outdoors. You’ll find easy-to-follow instruction of climbing fundamentals, including knots, belaying, building anchor systems, moving on rock, descending, and lead climbing, giving you all the skills and knowledge you need to be a capable beginning climber. Throughout the book the authors share consumer, technique, and safety tips collected from their years of experience as both climbers and instructors. They also list Web sites to help you find climbing organizations, shop for equipment and gear, plan outdoor climbing trips, and more. The book also includes Success Check questions for each chapter that will help you test your climbing knowledge. Use Rock Climbing to join the millions of other climbing enthusiasts around the world. This complete resource will teach you all the essential information for a successful rock climbing adventure!

Explains what rock climbing is, where to climb, and how to do it safely.

Whether you're drawn to the rugged cliffs, towering peaks, or indoor climbing walls, this comprehensive guide is your key to unlocking the thrilling world of rock climbing. As you stand at the base of these natural wonders, eager to ascend to new heights, this book will be your trusted companion, offering indispensable insights, expert advice, and step-by-step instructions to master the essential techniques of rock climbing. Within these pages, we invite you to discover the art and science of climbing, demystifying the challenges that come with scaling rocks. From understanding the fundamentals of equipment and safety protocols to honing your physical and mental strength, each chapter is crafted to empower you on your ascent. As a beginner, you'll find a clear roadmap that takes you from your first tentative steps to conquering more advanced routes.