MODIFICATIONS OF FORCE DISTRIBUTION IN NOVICE ROCK CLIMBING TECHNIQUE

Abstract

Introduction: Learning to rock climb is largely a matter of learning how to use the feet, to keep in balance over them, and to relay as little as possible on the arms and hands. Climbing should be performed primarily with the legs and feet because the lager postural muscles involved have greater endurance than those in the upper body. In addition, balance is a very important element of climbing technique. The objective is to keep the weight over the base of support. Often, climbers move out of balance and place demands on the hands and arms, as some climbs require, but ideally the climber returns to a balanced position as quickly as possible to rest the arms and hands.