Overcoming the fear and anxiety of falling is a rock climbing skill that every climber must learn. To some climbers it comes naturally and they appear unburdened by it. While others can be paralysed by it.
Sometimes this fear is justified when the position is very exposed whilst in other cases there really is little danger and our fears are more personal.
i’m sure that, like me, you have read many books by experienced climbers and mountaineers who discuss their psychology and strategy for overcoming fear.
One of the problems with this kind of writing is that we can’t see it in practice. Usually we read it. Think “yes thats good” maybe we even get our yellow marker out and highlight the words of wisdom then the next time we find ourselves in a position of fear it all goes out the window.
We grip tighter, we get progressively more pumped, our legs shake and panic consumes us. I’m afraid I’m not going to offer any magic wand. But what I have found on Climbing Tribe is an old rock climbing video, (not sure how old – anyone any ideas ?) which I think gives a very practical, real life demonstration of overcoming fear and anxiety about taking a fall.
Unlike modern films where climbers are shown making sexy moves to a background of strong music this video features a live discussion by the climbers. I found this dialogue fascinating as it reveals the essence of what is going on in the dangerous and exposed position that the climber on lead is facing.
Interesting to note is the vocal support that the belayer provides. This is very important and can make all the difference to a climber suffering a panic attack. The belayers words and particularly his joking banter help take the lead climbers mind of the danger and his fear and allow him to REFOCUS on the problem in hand.
Often this is all that is necessary. Almost a form of distraction which allows us to come back to the present, analyse the problem and action a solution. In a sense the belayer is sharing the problem and helping him to manage his fear.
How do you overcome a fear of falling?
Some other opinions by CrazyJourney community:
Embrace “fear” its not everyday u can climb over 5k meters in snow. Its that or sit & watch a film about it.i know which i prefer www.thelongestwayhome.com
This rock climbing video shows Al Harris and Henry Barber on Dream of White Horses, Wales.
Credits for the images used in this article and video about overcoming a fear of falling in rock climbing belong to www.photo-tropism.com
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This article reminded me of my rock climbing trip. I clearly remember the first time I tried it. My legs were shaking and I was doing all the wrongs things. I was really nervous. But slowly I lost my fear and now I am more confident about it!
Hi Shibani – I agree. I felt exactly the same when I first went bouldering in Fontainebleau. Having done all my climbing previously indoors I couldnt believe that a small crash pad was going to protecct me!