How to walk a slackline

Walking a slackline is a lot of fun and a great way to improve your balance. Mostly, it is just a matter of falling and getting back up until you get it. Here are some basics to help you get started.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Slackline
• Gym mats

1. Practice walking heel to toe. If you can, practice on a balance beam. Otherwise, practice on cracks in the sidewalk. Although this step is not strictly necessary, it will help you to build a bit of confidence before you try to get up on the slackline.
2. Make sure that there is no glass or other debris that will hurt you when you fall. Ideally, you should be above soft ground covered in grass or, if you are inside, some gym mats.
3. Lift your left foot and place it slowly on the slackline. It should be lengthwise, with the line right in the middle of your foot.
4. Focus on something stationary. Some people prefer to look at a close object, while others like to look at the horizon. Figure out what works for you.
5. Breathe deeply and focus on the feeling of the line under your feet. Proceed when you feel calm, but alert.
6. Push off with your right foot and place it on the slack line in front of the left. You should do it all in one easy motion, neither jerking nor hesitating.
7. Put your arms out at your sides, below soldier level. This will help you to balance.
8. Walk forward by putting one foot directly in front of the other.
9. When you fall (and you will), take a few breaths to calm yourself down. When you feel relaxed, climb back on the slackline.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't let yourself get irritated. You will fall a lot before you master this, but eventually you will make it up. Getting uptight about it will only make it harder for you to balance.