whippin' from the shuts

(by the way, climb at your own risk. only try this stuff if you and your partner know what you're doing.)

my climbing friends have suggested the following exercise to get you used to dropping a few feet. when leading indoors, don't clip the rope into the top shuts. instead, push off the wall when you get to the top of the route. you'll drop a good 10-15 feet and free fall. it's exhilarating as all hemp. try it. just make sure your belayer knows how to give you a nice soft air landing. this works really well on overhangs. also, watch your feet and keep them way clear of any rope trappings.

oh, and as you fall, feel free to yelp: "fuuuhhuuuckkkin' ayyyy!!!!" (thanks for the quote jared)