Slacklining refers to the use of webbing tensioned between two anchor points to balance and walk. Slacklining resembles slack-rope walking and tightrope walking as the line is held under tension.
This balancing sport is very popular in California, and has made its way to the Slippery Rock campus. Most students use trees in order to slackline, but it becomes much harder to find suitable places to pracice slacklining in the winter. Slacklining is a sport, and like any other sport, practice makes perfect. I believe Slippery Rock should incorporate this sport into the culture here.
I think there should be a place in the Arc for gymnastics and beams for slacklining. In order to slackline, one needs very good balance. If the Arc supplied balance beams, slackliners would be able to practice a little bit more. The Arc could also add beams for students who have their own slackline, where they could come to practice on their own. Slacklining is a great exercise for core strength and balance. Slacklining could also be used as a way to do yoga. The Arc could also add a slacklining rack, which would take up less room.
Among the benefits of slacklining:
Boosts memory function
Sharpens focus
Promotes social interaction
Affordable
Meditative
Improves posture
Improves core strength
Improves balance
Full-body workout
Decreases stress and tension
Having fun
Learning a new skill
Challenging yourself
You can compete in Winter Olympics
I have been trying to slackline for almost a year now, and I can only walk about three steps. It is very challenging, but probably the most fun I have ever had. The key is to focus on a point the entire time you are trying to walk across the slackline. It also helps to keep your arms above your head. It takes a lot of time and dedication to become good at this, but look how awesome it would be if you were good at it:
Slacklining has actually changed me. It gives me more of an appreciation for nature, it reduces my stress, it makes me more social, and it makes me a more positive, happy, and centered person. Every time I am having a bad day, I slackline, and I am instantly happy. So, give it a try! You’ll be surprised how fun it is, even when all you’re doing is falling.
