Slacklining: Techniques and Safety Tips

What is Slacklining?

Slacklining is a game of balance and stability. It involves walking on a narrow, flattened strip of webbing stretched between two fixed anchors. The webbing used for the sport is crafted from synthetic fibres, creating a sturdy line for you to walk on. Your balancing skills are put to the test when you walk on a slackline as the line is not completely round but somewhat flat.

The history of slacklining can be traced back to the late 1970s when climbers in Yosemite National Park, USA, attempted something similar by trying to walk on a nylon rope. Mountaineers initially used this technique during expeditions, but later, it evolved into an independent sport, testing one’s balancing ability every moment. While walking on a slackline, several muscle groups in your body are engaged to help you maintain equilibrium, stability, and balance.

Today, slacklining is a prominent sport with several championships and disciplines. Seasoned slackliners continuously experiment with the sport, coming up with innovative techniques and motivating others to take it up.

Types of Slacklining Equipment

There are various types of equipments included:

• Frames

If no posts or trees are nearby, you will need A-frames as a suitable stable point to rig your slackline. You can buy readymade A-frames or make one at home out of wood.

• Webbing

This is an absolutely indispensable slacklining equipment no matter what discipline you practice. This is actually the line on which you are supposed to walk. You can select from webbings made of nylon, polyester, silk, or spider silk. Man-made materials like nylon or polyester do not get worn out easily and have the strength needed for this game of balance.

• Ratchets

Ratchets can be used to set up a slackline between the trees or any other fixture quickly and easily. The use of ratchets is far simpler than pulleys. However, getting good tension is sometimes difficult, even after using two ratchets. A lot of energy and strength is required to use this particular equipment, and ratchets, in most cases, do not last long.

• Pulleys

Pulleys are great equipment for achieving good tension in the slackline and can be made functional without much effort. Achieving and maintaining tension in the slackline is easier with pulleys than with ratchets; thus, pulleys are costlier. Pulleys are one of the best equipment for the highlining and longlining disciplines of slacklining.

• Slackline Racks

When there is a space shortage, these racks come in handy. You can also use the racks as independent equipment when there is no stable fixing provision.

• Soft/Slow Release

Soft release, or slow release, is crucial slacklining equipment. It enables safe release for high-tension slacklines, safeguarding the ratchets and line from damage and also protecting you from getting hurt.

How to Set Up a Slackline

First, you need to gather the following items:

• A 15-metre long webbing

• 2 tree slings or loops

• A ratchet

• Tree protector (optional)

Once all the items are ready, start setting up your slackline following the simple steps below.

Step 1:

Wrap the tree protectors around the base of each tree trunk.

Step 2:

Next, attach the ratchet as the tension anchor, choosing the smaller of the two trees.

Step 3:

Wrap the sewn sling around the tree, pass the ratchet through and then secure it completely by tightening. While tightening, make sure the ratchet handle is positioned downward.

Step 4:

Next, fold the slackline close to the sewn sling and wrap the sling around the tree trunk nearly a quarter of the way. By doing this, you can maintain the flatness of the slackline even under high tension.

Step 5:

Follow the same wrapping and folding process for the other tree. Once you are done with the folding, roll out the slackline and move to the other side while holding the line flat.

Step 6:

To tension the line, pull the slack out by threading it carefully through the slit of the spool, then set the ratchet to enable tensioning.

Basic Slacklining Techniques

• Set up a short, tight slackline at an upper thigh to hip height.

• Choose your location carefully, such as a local park or your backyard.

• Keep a space of about 15-25 feet between the two trees you have chosen, especially if you are at the beginner level.

• Use the ratcheting system to tighten your line in such a way that the loops around the anchors do not move.

• Keep your body weight on the front foot when you turn the back foot 180 degrees.

• Keep the load pressure on the line light initially, but barely touch it.

• Stabilise yourself by putting your outer thigh on the line.

• Relax and breathe before you mount the line.

• Set your eyes on a stable focal point ahead of you rather than your feet, the line, or a moving object.

Advanced Slacklining Tricks

• Use your knees to mount the line.

• Start slacklining from a sitting position on the foot on the slackline and then stand up.

• Try various Yoga positions, such as the tree or warrior pose, slowly and focus on gaining control.

• Use a hula hoop around your waist while walking on the slackline.

• Do a backflip off the line when dismounting the line, and then later try to do it on the line.

• Start walking on a thin slackline, beginning with one closer to the ground to gain confidence and balance.

• Try the chest bounce trick when you bounce your chest on the slackline while maintaining your balance and control.

• Emulate the movements of a surfer on the slackline by shifting your weight on it. For balance, make use of your arms.

Safety Tips for Slacklining

Slacklining may involve some amount of risk. Here are some tips to keep you safe while practising this sport:

• You must inspect all slacklining equipment from time to time to rule out the possibility of any wear and tear, which could eventually lead to an accident.

• Always ensure the anchor points are stable and strong enough.

• Using a crash mattress can save you from major injuries, even if you fall accidentally.

• To avoid equipment failure, never over-tension the webbing.

• Do not forget your safety harness if you are practising highlining.