Rock climbing looks like lots of fun, but it can be extremely dangerous. Just like Amir and William learned, you should never try to climb a cliff or rock without proper training and equipment. You should be able to find rock climbing classes in your area by looking on the Internet. Of course, be sure to have adult permission before signing up for any classes.
There are many different types of rock climbing. Here are some examples:
* Ice Climbing: Instead of climbing a rock, climbers use picks, special shoes, and axes to help them climb giant walls of ice.
* Indoor Climbing: Climbing on a man-made wall inside a building. It’s a great way to learn how to climb from experts.
* Solo Climbing: Free climbing all alone, with no ropes or protection. It’s the most dangerous type of climbing.
* Traditional Climbing: Climbers usually go in groups or pairs, with each climber having another person belay for them. In traditional climbing, there are no permanent holds for the climber to use. They must insert and secure all of their own holds on the climb, or use natural holds on the rock’s surface to help them.
* Sport Climbing: Just like traditional climbing, except climbers use holds that are permanently attached to the surface of the rock (like the bolts Amir found on Widowmaker in this story).