One of the best and most riveting documentaries to come out in recent memory is the rock-climbing epic ‘Free Solo’. It follows the exploits of professional rock climber Alex Honnold as he attempts to conquer the first-ever free solo climb of the famous El Capitan’s 900-metre vertical rock face at Yosemite National Park.
While most of us cannot claim to have even attempted something on the scale of that feat, there is definitely something to be said about what watching a documentary like that can do in people. It seems to inspire the best parts of us to do our own metaphorical (or actual!) climbing, as well as provokes and challenges us to think outside of our easily formed comfort bubbles and look beyond them.
To Climb or Not to Climb
If you’ve seen the documentary that we’re referring to above, you’ve probably wondered what your own climbing capacity is and what you’d be willing to attempt in the pursuit of glory. That is, of course, if you’re a climber. The documentary is an instant inspiration to climbers all over the world.
On the other hand, if you’re not a climber, you may have watched it and thought that he’s crazy and you’d never set foot on a rock. Fair enough, but what if you looked beyond the incredible accomplishment of this professional climber and instead looked at your own context and life. You’re not a professional climber, so take the pressure off! You might do well to take the documentary as purely inspirational to help you achieve your first rock climb. That would be amazing!
You Should Climb
Whether you’re an experienced rock climber or a first-timer – if you’ve ever felt the urge to put on your climbing shoes and scale a rock, do it! There are so many benefits to it, not to mention the absolute blast of fun that it provides not only you but your friends and family too.
What Can You Do? Climb!
When a documentary like Free Solo comes around, the impact it has on the growth of a niche sport is incredible. Climbers and non-climbers alike can watch it and be instantly inspired and motivated to traverse their own mountains. And with rock climbing, there’s no shortage of opportunities to put that motivation and inspiration into practice! Especially if you’re in Cape Town.
Just two hours outside of the city, there lies a particularly beautiful part of the Western Cape called Redelinghuys. Amongst its vast Sandveld and exquisite sandstone formations, the Klein Tafelberg Adventure Centre has established itself as one of the premier rock-climbing locations in the Western Cape, if not South Africa.
With a variety of graded climbs as well as awesome climbing walls, there’s something for everyone at Klein Tafelberg. The walls are solid, there’s plenty to do, and lots to see! Trust us; you won’t want to leave because of the sheer awesomeness of the experience. If you’re in Cape Town, it’s an absolute must!