Slacker alert for the pro

Gliding along with ease, on a webbing rope that has been fastened to trees, is the recent sport around on the block.

With an increasing number of “slackers" making this weekend pilgrimage to Cubbon Park, to indulge in the unusual sport of slacklining they say that it is an exercise which tests your strength and endurance.

Needless to say, slacklining is perfectly safe and involves participants walking across a flat strip of nylon, just a few feet above the ground. Aalok Bharadwaj, who runs Feet off Ground started this sport a year ago with workshops which combine yoga and climbing.

He says, “Most people who have tried it have gotten hooked to it and it has an easy entry threshold. When we practice it at Cubbon Park, many people who see us, join in and enjoy the sport."

These 'slackers' meet twice a week at the park and have sessions which go upto two hours.

Prashanth Pillai, says “I started practicing, due to extreme curiosity about the idea of relearning the basics of walking and balancing. Now, I have completed almost 80 feet on the slack and keep testing my strength as I go along."

The line is usually tied between trees just 1.5 to 2 feet off the ground, making it more of a mental challenge than a physical one.

Speaking of the health benefits, Aalok says, “It helps to strengthen smaller muscles around the knees and ankles. It also takes focus and persistent effort to stay on the line and walk and hence, it builds your focus, concentration and the ability to increase your awareness of your breath and balance."

Adding to that, Maleva Robert who has been an avid climber says that she was inspired to take it up. She recalls her experience, “When I first began practicing, though I had experience in climbing indoors, it took almost an hour for me to get it right. It all depends on the self confidence and your ability to master your mind and body."

The slacklining kit costs somewhere between Rs 2,500 to 3,800 and is available in select stores.

Balance it out 

• Ensure that there are two really strong anchors and the landing surface needs to be flat, so you don't twist your leg if you fall.
• Start barefoot and mount in the middle of the line, as there are lesser obstacles in the middle.
• Place foot lengthwise and focus to understand the feel of the line and balance your posture.

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