Difference Between Paragliding and Parasailing
According to Wikipedia, “Paragliding is a recreational and competitive flying sport. A paraglide is a free-flying, foot-launched aircraft. 
The pilot sits in a harness suspended below a fabric wing, whose shape is formed by its suspension lines and the pressure of air entering vents in the front of the wing.”
And again according to Wikipedia, “Parasailing, also known as par ascending, is a recreational activity where a person is towed behind a vehicle (usually a boat) while attached to a specially designed parachute, known as a parasail. The boat then drives off, carrying the par ascender into the air. The sheer power of the boat is powerful enough for 2-3 people to parasail. The par ascender has little or no control over the parachute.”
The difference
Your level of interest helps you decide whether you would choose to go for paragliding or parasailing. Those who yearn to be in the driver’s seat, with a sense of adventure and knowledge of his or her limitations, should take lessons to become a paraglide. The laid-back ones who prefer others taking charge should hold onto parasailing. Both the activities are a great way to relax and unwind. Read the rest of this entry »
Rock Climbing Techniques
Posted by admin in Rock Climbing on July 18, 2011
Whether it is done outdoors or indoors, rock climbing involves great skills and techniques. They help in finishing the route. Before taking on a rock climbing activity, consider it as an extreme sport which should only be taken if you understand how it can be properly done.
Rope Systems
There are three main rope systems for rock climbing techniques: single, double, and the twin rope system. The single rope system is commonly used and suits well with straight climbing routes. Double rope systems are more flexible than the single rope system. The twin rope system on the other hand is used for more complex type of climbing activity, and involves using two twin ropes in a single rope system.
Tying In
It entails attaching your rope to the climbing harness. During climbing or belaying, tying in will create a belay loop which will contain your belaying devices and gears. Read the rest of this entry »
Trekking Poles And Walking Sticks
Are walking sticks longer than trekking poles? What about hiking staffs and hiking sticks? Whatever you call them, and whatever their differences, they are supposed to help your knees more than anything. This they do very well, at least when you’re going downhill.
What else are they good for? They help you keep your balance. You can use them as defense against wild animals as well. I use a walking stick to rest my head on from time to time, and I also use it as a monopod for steadying the camera.
Do You Need Trekking Poles?
What if you don’t have knee problems, and you are hiking on level ground? Then maybe there is no point to using trekking poles. They can be just more things to carry.
Do they save energy? They take weight off your joints, but logic says you’ll expend more energy by carrying them. I use a walking stick at times, when my knees insist, and it’s fun to poke at things, but it’s not a necessity. For what it’s worth, Ray Jardine, the “father” of ultralight backpacking, doesn’t recommend trekking poles. Read the rest of this entry »