Mountaineering, also known as mountain climbing is a discipline that involves climbing to the summit of a mountain peak. It employs the use of many skills, including route-finding and knowledge of how to use ropes, crampons and ice axes.

While mountaineering is considered a dangerous sport, good decision-making and training keep a climber safe. In fact some have chosen mountaineering as a life time hobby. Here’s why mountain climbing is worth the risk;Physical benefits; because mountaineering combines hiking, walking and climbing on an uneven and steep landscape, mountaineers become fit along the course. The sport requires aerobic conditioning and endurance as preparation; this as well keeps the body in shape and adds physical strength to mountaineers.Mental Benefits; Mountaineers face many challenges and hazards when climbing the mountains. It exposes them to deep focus and commitment, in order to achieve their set goal of reaching the peak. Naturally, concentration is one thing that can transform one’s school of thought; this explains why mountaineers are known for intelligence and keenness.Training; a mountaineer doesn’t need any healthy training. The experience they get entitles them to aerobic fitness automatically. Sports like swimming, biking and running can never be hard for mountain climbers.  Discovery and Adventure; Discovery and adventure go hand in hand. If one isn’t brave enough to ignore what they already know and get set for a new adventure, many things would remain undiscovered.  Various bird, insects and reptile species have been discovered high up on mountains.

Maybe it’s because of the unique temperature at mountain peaks. For instance, Mountain Rwenzori in Uganda has a rare chameleon specie that is no where else on the continent. The more people develop the culture of mountain climbing; more discoveries are yet to come. The fun; Mountain climbing comes with lots of attached activities, which at the end bring about a lot of fun. Climbing Rwanda’s Karisimbi means killing two birds with one stone for instance because gorilla trekking is as fun as climbing itself.Climbing creates confidence; can anything be compared to the achievement of reaching the top of a mountain? Imagine overlooking the rest of the world, just below you! Isn’t that reason enough to approach life targets with more confidence? Mountain climbing is a life changing experience.Another way to appreciate nature; It is true that we pass through life without appreciating God’s free gifts to us. Mountains and forests are natural attractions that are often ignored. Mountain climbing is an eye opening hobby that can create a special love for the environment and what Mother Nature has to offer. Taking the initiative to visit what nature offers is another way of being an environmental agent.

Need a life changing adventure? Try mountaineering, you won’t regret it.