What Is Highlining?
Highlining is a type of slackline walking at great heights, typically between cliffs or rock faces. The activity is considered an extreme sport due to the inherent dangers involved in performing it. It requires a high level of skill, experience, and a strong sense of balance. Those who attempt highlining do so at their own risk.
Why Do People Highline?
Despite the dangers, it can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. The feeling of being so high up off the ground, with nothing but air beneath your feet, is unlike anything else. For many people, the challenge of pushing their boundaries and overcoming their fears makes highlining appealing.
What Is Highlining Freestyle?
Highlining freestyle is a type of slacklining where athletes perform tricks on the slackline, including flips, spins, and other creative maneuvers. It’s a relatively new discipline within slacklining and is still being developed. There are no set rules or guidelines, so athletes constantly push the boundaries of what is possible.
What Equipment Do I Need?
Harness: When choosing a harness, it’s crucial to find one that fits well and is comfortable to wear for long periods.
Shoes: Opt for a pair of shoes with good grip and support. Climbing shoes are a good option, but sturdy, comfortable shoes will do if you don’t have a pair.
Anchor Points: Ratchets allow you to quickly and easily adjust the tension on your line, which is essential when setting up or taking down your Highline.
Pair of Gloves: Highlining can be tough on your hands, and gloves can help protect them from abrasion.
Wind Break: If you’re highlining in an area with strong winds, a wind break can help keep you comfortable.
First-Aid Kit: Just in case you or someone else gets injured while highlining.
How Do You Set Up a Highline?
Before you even begin setting up your highline, make sure that all of your equipment is in good condition and that you have read all safety instructions thoroughly. Once everything is ready, connect your anchors securely to each end of the line using carabiners and webbing slings.
Then tension your slackline by threading a ratchet pulley system through one end of the line and pulling tight with another rope attached to an anchor point on the other end. Finally, adjust your tension until it’s just right – not too loose or tight – before attempting to walk across it.
Is Highlining Safe?
Highlining can be a safe activity despite the inherent dangers of heights. This is because the fabric used is incredibly strong and sturdy, able to support a person’s weight without breaking. Highliners also always wear safety harnesses attached to the fabric in case they lose their balance and fall.
Where Can I Learn Highlining?
The best way to learn highlining is by taking a course from a professional organization. This way, you will be able to learn in a controlled environment with experienced instructors.
Where Can You Highline?
Highlines can be set up just about anywhere there are two stable anchor points for both ends of the line. Popular locations include mountainsides, valleys, and riverbanks – but really, any place with two solid anchors will do.
Experienced highliners often travel around looking for suitable locations with amazing views or challenging terrain features like cliffs or canyons to get an even bigger rush from their experience.
Conclusion
Highlining is an adrenaline-filled activity that requires both physical strength and mental focus. While it may seem intimidating at first glance, getting started doesn’t have to be overwhelming if you take things slow and pay attention to safety precautions at every step.
With the proper preparation, highlining can be a rewarding and exciting experience that will leave you feeling accomplished and thrilled.
