In our new series of Great Gear posts, we’re going to take a look at the various bits of kit out there that can help you to become a better athlete, improve peformance and reduce injury.
First up – the humble slackline – one of the greatest cross training and rehabilitation tools of all time.
Whilst the most extreme of slackliners grab the headlines for the awe-inspiring backflips and tricks performed high above the ground, millions of ‘normal’ folks can also be found enjoying the sport in gardens and parks all over the world and having a blast.
It’s easy to set up, everyone can have a go, it’s hugely addictive and most importantly, it’s unbelievably good for you!
Something for every newbie slackliner to aspire to!
Slacklining is rarely talked about in the context of rehabilitation and pre-habilitation (strength and conditioning training) however it could be one of the most valuable training tools for any sport. It challenges the integration of our neurobiological, biomechanical and sensory systems leading to improved balance, postural control and muscle strength, particularly for the quadriceps (thighs), gluteals (butt) and core (abs). There is even a slacklining training protocol to follow!
When you start on a slackline it feels like the most impossible thing that you have ever tried but the improvements come quickly as the body learns fast. I have been enjoying ‘slacklining’ since I added it it as part of my ACL reconstruction rehabilitation programme and my trusty Gibbon slackline now comes with us on all our travels and makes many trips to the park for picnics with friends.
Give it a try!!
Click here to read more about the history of slacklining and for more sweaty palm-inducing slacklining videos, follow this link.
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