Mountaineering is the sport of hiking and / or climbing to the top of mountains. In America the terms used are usually mountaineering or mountain climbing, while in Europe the term alpinism is also commonly used. While vertical rock climbing and vertical ice climbing may be required to reach the top of a mountain, not all mountains require the same kind of climbing techniques to get to the summit. However, mountain climbing takes advantage of some of the safety techniques that are used for vertical rock climbing and ice climbing, most notably rope harness systems with multiple connection points for holding the weight of the climber in case there is a situation where the ground gives way (or if one of the harness points fails).

There are three basic divisions of the craft of mountain climbing, depending on whether the climber is traveling over rock, snow or ice. Different equipment is used for each of these environments and special techniques have to be used to ensure the safety of the climber and the group. When walking over rock, conditions are usually the safest, although one must be careful of the hazards of falling rocks (caused by the gradual process of erosion of the mountains and the recent weather conditions) and loose rocks or rotten rocks which may give way if the climber is not careful. To survive while climbing over rock, the climber must pay close attention to the condition of any of his / her handholds and footholds, and make sure to transfer weight from one outcropping of stone to another gradually while maintaining multiple connection points.

To walk or climb over parts of a mountain which are covered in ice and snow requires more special equipment than standard rock climbing, most notably crampons: ten or twelve point spikes which are attached to one’s boots for increased traction, or snowshoes for gentle snowy slopes. The kind of crampons which are used to walk over icy surfaces are different from those that are used for climbing a sheer vertical surface of ice, as vertical crampons will have spikes on the toes pointing forwards. The ice axe is also used in the process of ascending a snowy / icy area of the peak ‘ in the beginning stages of climbing a mountain the ice axe can be used as a staff or walking stick, as you move upwards the point of the pick can be used as a dagger or the ice axe can be swung over the head to dig into ice above the user, making it easier to ascend.

It is often safer to climb a mountain as a team. When you climb as a team your entire group can be attached to each other by a single rope line. If one member of the group falls or has an accident the others can come to that person’s aid and perform a rescue operation. This is particularly important when climbing on glacial deposits which often contain hidden crevasses. If proper safety precautions are studied, mountain climbing is one of the most exhilarating sports that one can enjoy.

Buying the right mountaineering equipment for your trip is one of the most crucial factors in ensuring your safety where you’re on a climb. Once you’re up the side of that mountain, there’s no emergency store where you can pick up an extra hat or scarf if the weather turns nasty. You’re going to be very much on your own, so it’s always best to plan well in advance to make sure you have everything you could possibly need.
The first thing you should think about before you set off is the type of climb you’re choosing, the time of year and the local weather. Always check the local weather conditions well in advance, and pack appropriately. If you know it’s going to be cold, don’t skimp on the layers. Make sure you pack a pair of solid gloves and a warm wooly hat, as well as the other layers you’re going to need to keep you cozy.
Next, you should make sure your equipment from previous climbs is in good condition, and clean any boots or other tools before you leave. This will allow you to sort out what you need before your trip, and will give you the best chance when you get up there on the mountain. If you have a tent, make sure you can still erect it quickly and easily, and ensure it is still fully intact. There’s nothing worse than a leaky tent during a storm when you’re trying to get some much-needed rest.
On top of that, you should make sure you have the correct boots for your climb, and crampons if necessary. Ideally, you should be looking for solid, comfortable boots which offer the necessary support for your feet, whilst also keeping the elements out. If you’re at all unsure about your requirements for your trip, it’s a good idea to visit your local outdoor store and ask for some advice. This way you can be sure to cover all the bases before you head out for your trip.
It is very important to ensure you have the right equipment on board before you embark on any mountaineering trip. Not only can it be essential for your climb, but it can also save your life in emergency situations. Take into account all possible eventualities, and ensure you have all the materials you could possibly need in place to avoid any unforeseen problems during your climb.

Why would you want to climb a rock? What if you fall. At the least you may get a few scratches. Maybe break a bone or two or crack open your head like an egg. There wouldn’t be much left of you if you did. So why do it? You want to impress your friends, or for the thrill, the exhilaration? Probably, all those reasons.
Rock climbing though, especially when you have scaled a shear rock wall or crawled upside down under an outcropping to get around and over the edge so you can continue upward has got to be a huge sense of accomplishment and total exhilaration. Once you are at the top and look down to your starting point, which appears to look further down than it did looking up, it can only be described as “WOW”. You almost feel super human, even though you may be dead tired. The fun part is propelling back down with a series of distance covering leaps and can be just as invigorating.
Rock climbing isn’t for everybody though, even if you have a mind to do it. Rock climbing takes strength and endurance, let alone intestinal fortitude. You must build up your strength and stamina to be able to pull yourself up from one pitch to the next. This is an extreme sport that is not for someone who is out of shape physically. You should make sure you are in good health and capable of climbing before attempting to scale a rock wall. You can do this through workout routines. There are even practice walls you can experience in order to get into shape. These are usually indoors and the risks are minimal. You do not want to measure how physically fit you are by trying to climb a high peak. This only spells disaster.
There are certain exercises you can do to help prepare for rock climbing. The first is simple pull ups. These should be done at different angles and heights because of the conditions you will be facing when climbing the rock walls. Also, the arms are used to hang with while attaching your gear to the walls. You must be able to hang with one arm and maneuver the other to hack out a place for your equipment or to place your equipment. Balance is another thing you must possess. Never rule out lower body strength as it is your feet that keep you on a tiny ledge until you anchor in.
Rock climbing should also be done in pairs. This is the safest way to climb. If something does go wrong you have a partner there to help. In my state there have been at least three mishaps already this year. Had they not had a partner they may never have been rescued before it was too late. Plus having a partner gives you the added benefit of being able to share the experience. Knowing that you and your partner just scaled a wall others would consider insurmountable is a feeling like no other.
There are many places you can go to learn the sport of rock climbing. The cost generally includes all the equipment you will need. The instructors are certified by the American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) and have your safety utmost in their minds. You can take these classes whether you are a beginner or an advanced rock climber.
The less advanced rock climber may feel more comfortable with a guide when doing their first climb or two. There are many places which offer guided rock climbing experiences. Always make certain that your guide is a member of the AMGA. This way you know safety is first and foremost. The thrills you seek come from the climb not from faulty equipment or inexperienced guides.
The exhilaration that comes from scaling the cliffs and walls of some of the most beautiful country side can only be experienced by being out there. Join a group or a club. Travel the country or the world conquering the cliffs and mountains. Heck, you might even try scaling Mount Everest someday. You will never know how wonderful it is to reach the peak and know what you have accomplished until you have done it.
Richard Prosser