If you’re the first person in the neighborhood to try an offbeat new sport, gear yourself up for some slacklining here in Murphy, NC. What is slacklining? Well, imagine a cross between tightrope walking and skateboarding. Basically, you balance on a flat piece of nylon webbing stretched between two trees or poles. You’re generally several inches to a few feet off the ground – not suspended above Niagara Falls.
Slacklining might sound like some extreme sports fad, but it has been around since the 1980s. As slacklining mythology goes, mountain climbers were itching for something to do during rest periods, so they decided to test their balance by stretching climbing ropes between two trees. Now, devoted slackers nationwide are performing their own personal balancing acts. Some are even doing yoga and gymnastics while they’re perched above the ground.
Speaking of happy slackers, you’ll be pleased to learn that slacklining has attracted fans of all ages and abilities. In other words, you don’t have to be a super-fit circus tightrope walker to enjoy this inexpensive sport. You also don’t need any fancy gear – just comfortable clothes that don’t constrict your movements. Some slackers wear nicely broken-in flat-soled shoes, such as tennis shoes; while others work the slackline with their bare feet. If you choose this route, make sure the surrounding ground is free from glass or other sharp objects. To be on the safe side, clear a 10-foot space on every side of the line.
So let’s say slacklining sounds like your kind of sport, and you’re chomping at the bit to get started. Join up with the Murphy Slackers, like-minded folks (including families) who have established a slacklining presence in Konaheeta Park, just across from the Hiwassee Valley Pool and Wellness Center. Walk behind the last baseball field, near the end of the Murphy Riverwalk.
Throughout the summer and early fall, the Murphy Slackline Park is full of action. During Murphy Slackers’ regular gatherings, you’ll see several slackers working the lines while others mingle nearby. By frequently checking the group’s Facebook page, you might learn about a potluck picnic, giving you a great meal while you meet some devoted slackers. Chances are, they’ll also find excuses for cozy get-togethers during the winter (indoors, of course). Come spring, the Murphy, NC Slackline Park will gear up for another season of activities. Get ready to join those happy slackers!
The Poltrock Team – REMAX Mountain Properties – Murphy NC – www.MyMurphy.com – Call us Toll Free at 1-866-Murphy-NC or 1-866-687-7496 – Murphy’s #1 Real Estate Team