For the latest in our series of ‘Have a go’ guides, we’re branching out into the wonderful world of… tree climbing. Remember clambering about in your back garden when you were a kid? Thought those days were over? Paul McCathie from Goodleaf Tree Climbing based on the Isle of Wight tells us why messing about in the tree tops can bring out the big kid in everybody…
I used to climb loads of trees when I was young, why do I need all these harnesses and ropes?
So you can climb higher than you could when you were a kid! Seriously, the harness and rope keep you safe, but also enable you to have more flexibility and movement in the tree – you trust your equipment, you know you are safe, so you are more willing to do things like walking out on branches. The rope and harness enable to you to get to places in the tree you wouldn’t normally be able to, plus its brilliant to be able to swing around when you’re 40 ft in the air.
Do I need to be extra fit or flexible?
Not really, we teach a special technique that uses your leg muscles as opposed to your upper body muscles. If you are reasonably fit and have the right mental attitude, you can climb trees.
It looks like a long way up, what if I get vertigo at the top?
Climb slowly to make sure you enjoy your upward climb. Our tree climbing is about your own personal achievement, there’s no pressure to reach the top. If you do feel a bit wobbly once you’re sat on a high branch, just give us a shout, we can have a chat, talk you through what you need to do and if necessary help you to come down to a height you feel more comfortable at. Its always good to push yourself, but our climbing is all about having fun – its not a military exercise!
What are the best kinds of trees to climb?
Its always best to talk to a professional arborist before attempting any sort of personal tree climbing. Other than that, a high sturdy tree with wide, open branches is what we look for. An old English Oak is just about perfect.
Where’s the best place in the UK to climb?
The Isle of Wight of course! We climb in three different places on the Island: in woodland (with amazing residents, including a pair of buzzards), in a field with fantastic views of the IW, The Solent and mainland Britain from the top and in a seaside park – it will take you 10 seconds to cool off in the sea after climbing the tree.
What do you love most about climbing trees?
I love the peace and tranquillity as I lie back in our tree top hammock, there’s something very special about being in the canopy of a tree. My job has given me the opportunity to climb trees in some amazing places, it keeps me fit and I meet some brilliant people.
Want to find out more?
Isle of Wight – www.goodleaf.co.uk
Cornwall – www.mighty-oak.co.uk
Nation wide – www.goape.co.uk
Related posts:
Related posts:
Hi and welcome. I'm a freelance travel and lifestyle copywriter and editor, with a passion for the great outdoors. This is my personal blog all about getting out in the fresh air and reconnecting with our green spaces and countryside.
