Slacklining for kids
Slacklining is the act of balancing along a narrow, flexible piece of webbing which is low to the ground and usually anchored between two trees. Originating in the climbing world, slacklining has evolved into a cross-trainer, backyard activity and sport all its own.
Slacklining can be traced back to climbing camps in Yosemite during the mid-seventies. Climbers would stay there for weeks blazing new routes and in their time on the ground they started rigging climbing rope to walk across. They found that the activity improved their core strength, balance and movement for climbing - and it was FUN.
Slackline Industries will fuel the next generation of slacklining by making it easy and accessible to everyone. The 2-inch webbing and ratchet tensioning design make the products friendlier to walk on and easier to set up. No additional tools or rigging are needed; just the kit and a couple of trees and you’re ready to go. However, the roots of slacklining have not been forgotten, SI produces 1-inch webbing and hardware for use in traditional set-ups.
THE BASICS - A slackline can most easily be described as a portable fabric balance beam, which is typically attached between trees low to the ground. Slacklining is becoming a very popular activity popping up in backyards and parks around the globe because it is affordable, fun, and a great fitness tool. Slackline Industries (SI) offers a variety of slackline kits and styles that are easy-to-use and readily available to the public from local outdoors stores or online.
IN PARKS - Many slackliners gravitate to parks to set up since there are typically many tree options. Slacklining does not hurt the trees if those selected are mature, hard-barked and at least 12 inches in diameter, however it is always recommended to use tree protection ( a layer of felt, carpet or cardboard before the slackline) and this is included in all SI kits. Some parks have slackline guidelines, some allow it to be self-monitored, some provide the slacklines and others have rules preventing the use of trees so have installed slackline posts. SI is here to assist parks in finding the best approach for your area.
FITNESS - Slacklining is a great workout for the whole body that quickly improves balance and core strength. Many facilities offer slacklines as part of outdoor fitness courses and/or indoors using our Slackstand in personal training areas or group settings. These break down for easy storage and SI has free fitness programming to support equipment placement.
INSTALLATIONS - Some parks do not have appropriate trees or may have laws restricting their use, so SI has been designing slackline areas with alternative anchors. We'll assess the available space and create a custom solution to support a "bring your own" slackline area or a full service slackline activity zone depending on your staffing model.
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