How to Learn Ice Climbing History

Ice climbing is a sport derived from classic mountaineering that started in Europe in the 1800s. The extreme sport's popularity grew in the early 1900s as ice climbing tools became more advanced. Here are some ways to find out more about the history of ice climbing.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Review gorp.com, a website dedicated to ice climbing as well as other extreme sports. You can read about the development of crampons, a "claw" that attaches to boots and about front points, an addition to the claw that encouraged ice climbers to take on more challenging climbs.
2. Join a local club dedicated to mountain climbing. Talk to veterans who have done ice climbing and can share interesting stories, provide tips and warnings and will answer questions you have about this extreme sport.
3. Take a course and train with an experienced climber. Ask veteran ice climbers to recommend trainers or contact local ice climbing groups for references. Make sure the course includes a discussion of the history of the sport along with physical training.
4. Buy a book about the history of ice climbing. Amazon.com has several books for sale on the history of ice climbing. Tim Molinero of the "Washington Post" suggests "Yankee Rock & Ice" by Laura and Guy Waterman, Stackpole Books, as a wonderful way to learn about the early days of ice climbing.