Slacklining

Slacklining is a brilliant way for children to work on their balance, spatial awareness and core body strength as well as being great fun to do.

The slackline consists of a webbed strap that is looped around two trees and tensioned using a ratchet. There are a few basic safety rules to bear in mind when using a slackline:

• Check the slackline for signs of wear before using.
• Select strong healthy trees on level ground that are capable of supporting the tension of the slackline.
• Tree protectors should be used to cushion the bark from the slackine partcularly when using trees with thinner bark such as beech and birch trees.
• The fall zone should be free from hazards such as rocks and tree stumps.
• Position the slackline no higher than the crotch of the shortest person taking part (so they are not hurt if they fall off).
• Make sure that the ratchet is positioned on the underside of the strap and that the line is not twisted before tightening.

It is worth practicing tightening and releasing the ratchet before attaching it to a tree as it can take a little mastering. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using a slackline.

It takes a little while to get the hang of it but there are a few top tips to make it easier.

• Keep your knees soft to prevent transferring the the tension in your legs to the slackline.
• Hold your hands out and above you to help find you centre of gravity.
• Try to look forwards toward a point on the tree in front of you rather than looking down at your feet.
• Practice finding your balance on the slackline before trying to move forwards.
• Bare feet make it easier to grip the slackline.

20150617 101218 from Fagley Primary Forest School on Vimeo.