Outdoors Magazine

The Seven Summit Challenge

Posted on the 10 September 2012 by Exceedpossibility @exceedpossible

The Seven Summit Challenge: How To Successfully Conquer the Summits
Conquering a mountain is challenging. It requires physical and mental stamina. According to Katie Jones on GreenvilleOnline.com, the accomplishment is the element that caused 60-year-old Ron Sanga to climb the tallest peak on every continent. The seven summit challenge that Sanga accomplished is an enormous feat, but it is a goal that any mountaineer can consider. Before it is possible to overcome the seven summit challenge, it is necessary to prepare for the excursion and carefully follow safety guidelines.

Preparing for the Climb


The first task for your journey is to carefully prepare. Jones said that Mr. Sanga took time to envision his successful climb to the summit, which contributed to his success.
If you plan to take a break from playing craps online to climb a mountain, then you will need to take the appropriate measures to prepare for the excursion. According to Rei.com, preparation includes training the body for improved physical stamina and working on the mental training necessary to push past the physical challenges of the task.
Physical training is a necessary part of preparing for any climb, particularly when the goal is climbing the tallest mountains on the seven continents. Mountain climbing requires stamina to climb for several days while carrying a heavy pack of supplies as well as dealing with the potentially dangerous conditions of the mountain. Rei.com suggests using stair-stepping machines, running, bicycling and swimming to build up your stamina and improve lung capacity. Weight training will help provide the strength to carry that heavy pack of supplies up the mountain and should be added to a preparation routine at least three times per week.
Due to the lower level of oxygen at high altitudes, it is also a good idea to take time for some altitude training. Some gyms have low-oxygen training facilities that can help prepare the body for the changes throughout the climb.
The mental preparation is just as important as physical training. Visualizing the view from the top of the mountain before and during the climb will improve the chances of reaching beyond normal human capabilities to reach the top.

Taking Safety Precautions


To conquer a mountain summit you must think about your safety. Consider measures that reduce the risk of injury and ensure that emergency measures are in place in case an accident occurs. The risk of falls, slips and injuries is reduced with planning, appropriate tools and solutions for emergency situations.
C. Alexander Hagy from AllHealthResources.com suggests that mountaineers should check the knots, harnesses and other safety tools throughout the climb. Even experienced mountain climbers need to double-check the knots because a single mistake is potentially life-threatening.
Hagy suggests that all mountaineers carry emergency supplies like a first aid kit to protect against possible injuries. Mountaineers should always wear a helmet during the climb and must have appropriate clothing for the weather conditions and temperature changes along the route. Protective clothing will provide warmth and reduce the risk of serious injuries in case an accident occurs.
The thrill of climbing a mountain is about the accomplishment of overcoming a physical and mental challenge. Mountaineering is not for everyone, but it is an adventure of a lifetime if you decide to try conquering the seven summits challenge. With the proper tools, preparation and safety precautions, it is possible to succeed in the endeavor to climb the tallest mountains in the world.


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