How to Walk a Slackline
Start with a short slackline., Place one foot lengthwise in the middle of the slackline., You can mount the slackline at any point, but starting in the middle is generally safer, since it is usually away from obstacles you might hit when falling...
Step-by-Step Guide
-
Step 1: Start with a short slackline.
The shorter the distance between the two anchor points, the more stable the slackline.
As the slackline gets longer, a few things happen:
The tension in the line increases, making dismounts more dangerous due to the extra force; The height of the line off the ground increases to allow for greater sag when weighted; It requires more force to tighten it, which can be difficult with some tightening systems. -
Step 2: Place one foot lengthwise in the middle of the slackline.
Starting barefoot is a good idea.
Using bare feet will allow you to feel the line better and find your balance more quickly.
Step on the line so that it runs from between your big toe and second toe back to the middle of the heel.
As you improve, practice turning your feet and standing sideways, with your shoulders parallel to the line.
Once you improve (or if the landing is not safe for bare feet), you may want to switch to shoes since they provide greater protection when attempting tricks and landing. , The line is also lower to the ground in the middle once weighted, reducing the height of the falls.
Practice from the same place each time since the slackline oscillates differently at different distances from the anchors.
The wobbles are faster and smaller near the anchors and slower and larger near the middle.
But wherever you start, it is going to wobble a lot.
This is natural; everyone wobbles the first time. , If you are relaxed, your foot will be less shaky on the line. , This will help you find and keep your balance.
Resist the temptation to look straight down at your feet on the line.
Looking down at the wobbling line will simply make you wobble as well.
Look ahead instead of down at the line. ,, With one smooth, balanced motion stand up on that leg. ,, Bending your leg lowers your center of gravity slightly, and allows you to more easily find your balance and absorb the movements of the line. , Sometimes you will twist and turn your body into all sorts of positions to keep your balance.
Once you have caught your balance slowly move your body back to center with your arms up and out, knee(s) bent, head up, and eyes focused on a single point. ,, Once you can keep your balance, attempt taking a step. , -
Step 3: You can mount the slackline at any point
-
Step 4: but starting in the middle is generally safer
-
Step 5: since it is usually away from obstacles you might hit when falling.
-
Step 6: Take a couple deep breaths and settle yourself.
-
Step 7: Focus intently on a single point
-
Step 8: such as the anchor.
-
Step 9: Put your arms out wide
-
Step 10: slightly bent and keep an upright posture.
-
Step 11: Center your weight directly over the foot on the line.
-
Step 12: Balance on one foot
-
Step 13: while using your arms and other leg to help maintain your balance.
-
Step 14: Bend the leg that is on the slackline.
-
Step 15: Continue to wave your free arms and legs around to help you balance.
-
Step 16: Repeat these steps until you can balance for at least 15 seconds.
-
Step 17: Practice with the other foot.
-
Step 18: Once you've successfully taken your first step
-
Step 19: keep practicing!
Detailed Guide
The shorter the distance between the two anchor points, the more stable the slackline.
As the slackline gets longer, a few things happen:
The tension in the line increases, making dismounts more dangerous due to the extra force; The height of the line off the ground increases to allow for greater sag when weighted; It requires more force to tighten it, which can be difficult with some tightening systems.
Starting barefoot is a good idea.
Using bare feet will allow you to feel the line better and find your balance more quickly.
Step on the line so that it runs from between your big toe and second toe back to the middle of the heel.
As you improve, practice turning your feet and standing sideways, with your shoulders parallel to the line.
Once you improve (or if the landing is not safe for bare feet), you may want to switch to shoes since they provide greater protection when attempting tricks and landing. , The line is also lower to the ground in the middle once weighted, reducing the height of the falls.
Practice from the same place each time since the slackline oscillates differently at different distances from the anchors.
The wobbles are faster and smaller near the anchors and slower and larger near the middle.
But wherever you start, it is going to wobble a lot.
This is natural; everyone wobbles the first time. , If you are relaxed, your foot will be less shaky on the line. , This will help you find and keep your balance.
Resist the temptation to look straight down at your feet on the line.
Looking down at the wobbling line will simply make you wobble as well.
Look ahead instead of down at the line. ,, With one smooth, balanced motion stand up on that leg. ,, Bending your leg lowers your center of gravity slightly, and allows you to more easily find your balance and absorb the movements of the line. , Sometimes you will twist and turn your body into all sorts of positions to keep your balance.
Once you have caught your balance slowly move your body back to center with your arms up and out, knee(s) bent, head up, and eyes focused on a single point. ,, Once you can keep your balance, attempt taking a step. ,
About the Author
Jeffrey Lopez
Professional writer focused on creating easy-to-follow DIY projects tutorials.
Rate This Guide
How helpful was this guide? Click to rate: