Canyoning
Canyoning is a sport done in groups that consists in the descent by foot along ravines in which a stream flows with good water flow (not full).
It can be practiced on stretches of water courses with a steep slope, with differences in height and deep pools that allow you to jump and dive and, possibly, with natural rock slides shaped by water and wind for our pure enjoyment.
HOW IT WORKS
First of all, the instructors brief you adequately on how to rappel, how to proceed along the canyon, how to dive, what behaviour to adopt depending on the situation.
Put on your wetsuit and all the necessary equipment and let’s go, the adventure begins.
You can walk along the route, but you may need to go down with the rope, or swim in the various natural pools, but the most fun part is diving, strictly by feet and following the technique indicated by the instructor during the brief, and toboggas, rocks natural slides.
At the end of the route, someone will be waiting for you to bring you back to the base, as it’s not possible to do the route backwards.
WHEN TO GO
The ideal period for hopping along the streams is the spring-summer because the waters of the streams are usually low, and the pools are full and the risk of bad weather is lower.
The guides will also take into account the sun exposure of the route, so that the area is as sunny and as hot as possible.
ADRENALINE/7R
50 % – 80 %
is the minimum amount of DRD4-7R adventure gene that we think you should have to do this activity.
Take the test to find out how much% of 7R you have in your DNA.
DOCUMENTS AND REQUIREMENTS
Canyoning is suitable for adults and children (from 9 yo – parental consent is required for children under 18).
Good physical shape and the ability to walk with agility is required, as there are boulders to avoid, jumps and uneven terrain along the way.
In addition, it’s essential to know how to swim and not be afraid of water.
If you are acrophobic or suffer from vertigo or claustrophobia, inquire about the height of the descents and jumps and the type of gorge walls. Sometimes there is the possibility of avoiding obstacles and have fun in this case as well.
Furthermore, there are different levels of difficulty of the tracks, so that the whole family has the opportunity to experience this sport.
Canyoning is not suitable for those who have recently undergone surgery and for those with joint or heart problems.
RECOMMENDED CLOTHING
To do canyoning you need:
the neoprene wetsuit, helmet, harness and ropes, possibly an underwater torch.
This equipment is provided by the sports center.
It’s useful to bring a waterproof backpack or a waterproof bag, if you have one. It’s often brought by the guides.
Sometimes it’s possible to rent special gloves on site to avoid any abrasions caused by ropes or rocks, and to keep your hands warm.
Neoprene shoes or boots are also available in some centers. Even if you don’t have them, you can use sports shoes, possibly high up to the ankle, typically those used for trekking.
It’s recommended to wear a swimsuit and a T-shirt under the wetsuit, preferably made of technical material and with long sleeves.
It’s important to remember a hair elastic for those with long hair and spare contact lenses for those who need it.
It would be better not to wear glasses, for your own comfort because they could fall or mist up, limiting visibility. If you can’t avoid them, remember to tie them well.
Leave a towel, clothes and dry shoes in the center and all you need for a shower (hairdryer included).
I also recommend a plastic bag for wet clothes.