By Marti Schodt
Summer is finally here, Washingtonians. It may come in spurts, but by gosh, we’ll make the most of the few sunny days afforded us by the weather gods. By now you’ve probably exhausted the typical warm weather pursuits: barbeques, lake days, picnics, hikes, bike rides, an impromptu nap under an accommodating tree. Perhaps it’s time to try something new and shake off that summer slump. Something exciting. Something daring. Something exhilarating. Something like slacklining.
“What is this slacklining you speak of?”
Slacklining was invented in 1979 at Evergreen State College by avid rock climbers Adam Grosowsky and Jeff Ellington. In its simplest form, slacklining involves stringing a rope between two trees, or anchors. Once the line is secured, slackers will walk, bounce, or yoga across it, depending on their skill set.
The sport found its niche among college students looking for a cheap and challenging hobby. A slackline can be purchased at most sporting retailers for about $50 and can be used and abused for years to come.
“Why would I want to walk across some silly rope?”
There are three big and important reasons to take up slacklining:
1. Relaxation
One year slackline veteran, Niall Brown, has found a certain peace and tranquility on the line, “When you’re doing it, it’s really relaxing,” said Brown, “It’s calming. You’re only focused on this one thing. It’s like a meditative state.”
Slacklining involves a complete commitment to the task at hand. You must be devoted to crossing the line; and the only way to do so is to block out all outside worries and cares. Like a suspended trampoline, the line bends and adjusts to the weight placed upon it. A careless foot or misguided arm wave will result in a tumble to the ground. “If you try to slackline angry or distracted, you’re not going to do well,” said Brown. Slacklining is the perfect outlet for all that tension and rage you’ve been holding inside. Next time you want to punch a wall or scream into a pillow, just grab your line and go to the nearest park. While you focus on placing one foot in front of the other, you’ll find that you can solve your real world problems in the same manner.
2. The Community
Like most hobbies, slacklining is a great way to meet new people and make friends. Patrick Smith and Dylan Sheffles began slacklining after seeing it done at Sunrise Park in West Olympia. “We saw a guy doing it and we just went up and asked him what it was and if we could try,” said Sheffles.
After a few steps (or attempted steps) the pair was hooked. “I sucked at first,” said Smith, “but I wanted to keep trying and keep improving.” Smith and Sheffles not only introduced their friend circle to slacklining, but report having stangers join their numbers frequently. “It creates a space,” said Smith, “You just set up the line and people come crowding around to see what we’re doing. They always want to try it out. Once we had a whole bunch of kids waiting in line.” Slacklining is a laid back and easy way to make some connections and have some fun in the summer heat.
3. The Challenge
Relaxation and community aside, slacklining is a sport. The practice of balancing several feet above the ground requires core strength, dexterity, and agility. “I love it because you can really see your growth,” said Brown, “and there’s always room for improvement.” Brown explains that everyday, and with every practice, you find that you can take a few more steps, stay airborne for a little longer.
The physical aspect is the main thing that appeals to beginning slackliner, Tisha Worley, “I know a lot of people who are really lazy. I don’t want that. I want to be active forever, I want to push myself to the limits.”
Slacklining is a sport that offers reward for practice. You can feel yourself getting stronger, walking a little bit farther. Many slackers advance past the common “urbanlining” to more advanced forms of slacklining such as “waterlining” (walking above water), “tricklining” (doing flips and dips on the line), “highlining” (walking high in the air above canyons or between buildings), or “yogalining” (performing yoga while balancing on the line). The sky is truly the limit for aspiring slackers.
“Slacklining sounds great! Where can I do it?”
Favorite Olympia slacklining locations (as reported by slackers themselves)
- Capitol Lake
- Wonderwood Park
- Sunrise Park
- Madison Scenic Park
- Priest Point Park
Slacklining is a great way to relive stress, make new friends, and challenge your athleticism, but remember, like any sport slacklining comes with risks. Make sure to stay safe by taking it slow and practicing in open spaces with friends who will be there to cheer you on and help you up when you fall.
