5 comments about Training for Climbing: The Definitive Guide to Improving Your Climbing Performance.

1. I've been climbing for a few years and I wanted to begin a more serious, structured training program to help me break through to the higher grades. Training For Climbing is the book I was looking for, given its scientific look at improving technique, strength and the mind. While such a detailed, measured approach to training may not be for everyone, it has great appeal to me as a longtime athlete who engaged in formal training for other sports. Training For Climbing helped me understand the many unique aspects to, well, training for climbing, which I found to be much different than what I had been used to from my previous sports experience. Furthermore, I enjoyed seeing the many research references and footnotes, and more importantly I was pleased by the overall LACK of "do as so-and-so hot-shot climber does" or "train like I train." Training For Climbing helped me diagnose and design the best training program for me, and I sense that the book will remain a key resource for me for many years to come.



2. I am an intermediate climber and have been searching for a good source of training techniques to better myself and accomplish more advanced climbs. "Training for Climbing" was suggested by the folks that work at my gym, so I ran out and bought it. This book is so full of information, that I'll be devouring it for weeks! Everything I've read so far is very fact based and straight forward. The parts on developing mental skills are especially interesting to me, as concentration is one of my biggest areas to work on.
   
   My trainer at the gym has requested to look over the book and then we will formulate a work out program to get me in top shape for climbing. I can't wait! Thank you to Eric J. Horst for this comprehensive book on Training for Climbing.



3. This book delivers what it says, "Training for Climbing". It is not a technique book but very specifically a guide to training most efficiently for climbing. If you want to climber harder, this book provides lots of good advice.



4. It is really the definitive guide for climbing performance. Looks like "how to climb 5.12" with a lot more things. No doubt it is a good guide for who wants to upgrade his/her climb level.



5. I had great expectations for this book. I have been climbing for 6 months (in the gym) and am up into 5.11's. I was looking for some instruction and guidance on focusing my training and getting to the next level. Unfortunately this book does not provide much of what I am looking for.
   
   Largely it consists of a number of unsupported theories (often backed up by bogus graphs) and gross generalities which the author uses to expound on general training techniques. Many of the authors suggestions are well known techniques that any athelete could use but there is very little direct guidance on specific exercises that will target specific climbing deficiencies. I read a chapter of the book and at the end really don't have a good idea of what specific exercises I should be employing. Also the book is full of unexplained climbing jargon which takes a while to figure out.
   
   I definitely would not reccomend this book to a beginning or even intermediate climber and I assume most advance climbers would be beyond the level of the book.
   
   I am going to keep searching for a good book on climbing training techniques.

5 comments about Climbing Anchors, 2nd (How To Climb Series).

1. This newly updated reference guide will teach you how to build safe and secure anchors while climbing. These techniques have been scientifically tested.



2. This is a well written and well researched book. The most significant aspect for me are the new tests on various anchors presented in the book. As a novice outdoor climber, I was most interested in rigging good top-rope anchors and was quite surpised to learn about the faults of the cordelette. Fortunately he introduces a better alternative called the equalette. He also dispels some myths about the sliding X and the fear many have of potential shock loading. The chapter where he describes the tests of various anchor setups is quite eye opening. It really begs for additional tests to be performed and has me thinking about what other false assumptions exist in this sport. A good reference and essential reading for any outdoor climber.



3. I was a little disappointed about John Long new anchor book. I felt the book lost touch with the reality that climbing safe often means climbing fast, especially in the mountains and on long routes. . While the new tests reported on belay anchors are interesting, they seem to miss statistical validity and the conditions used to carry out the tests seem very extreme and seldom occur in real climbing. What the book does not say is how many accidents have occurred in the real climbing world because of the type of failures that were observed in the testing lab. If that is a significant number, I am willing to change the way I rig my anchors, otherwise it is probably better if I stick to my older simpler method. The solutions proposed to make better (more equalized) anchors are so complicated that it is difficult to imagine how to rig them properly after you climbed 20 pitches with a power bar for lunch. Maybe the information disclosed in the book is useful in specific cases, when all your pieces are awful. I am not an expert, but I just wonder if trying to make belay anchors so complicated at all the time, even when your pieces are great, may cause more accidents due to mistakes and more epics due to wasted time. I would appreciate an expert opinion on this matter. Thanks.



4. I like this book a lot. I've been climbing for over 20 years, but took a break in the last 5 or so and am just getting back into it. A lot can change in 5 years, and this book really was a big help in getting familiar with the latest in anchor system building. The real test data for various systems is a big plus that exposes problems with many systems I once viewed as 'good enough' (using John Long's terminology). If you were taught only one or two methods of setting up anchor systems, get this book. You'll be surprised how much variety can be in the various systems, and you'll see how one system can have advantages over others in different situations. To end on a funny note, I got a real kick out of the front and back cover pictures. It would seem that given that both pictures are of climbers on apparently chossy unstable towers, the strength of their anchor systems is the least of their worries! I'm not sure if this was intentional, but it did make me giggle to see such photos on an anchor system book. :)



5. A great reference book for those learning to climb outside the gym and to set up anchors.

5 comments about The Rock Warrior's Way: Mental Training for Climbers.

1. I really like this book. Even though I am not that advanced in climbing it gave me interesting insights into what happens "mentally" when you do this sport.



2. This book is more than rock climbing. it delves into the inner spirit of any competitive sport or activity. it has very much a Zen Buddhist philosophy at its core. highly recommended.



3. If for no other reason you should read this book it's that it brings greater self-awareness and introspective reflection to the challenging thought processes which a climber experiences while pushing their limits, and therefore teaches us to analyze these moments in order to become a more successful climber. I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a better understanding of themselves, life and climbing as a whole!



4. Takes a look beyond the physical aspects of climbing and puts success in the hands of anyone that can control their mental game. Worth the time and you'll end up wanting to take it with you to the crags. Even if you don't climb the lessons can be used in business and other sports too.



5. It's a great book once you get into it. I have found myself so busy with climbing this season already, I have little time to read it, however, what I have read has actually already begin to help my climbing, and it can be related to life off the rock as well, if you read into it.

5 comments about Rock Climbing Anchors: A Comprehensive Guide (The Mountaineers Outdoor Experts Series).

1. Wow!!! That was literally the first word that popped into my head as I started reading this book. The number and quality of photos BLOWS away any other comparable book. It looks like there are about 3X as many photos as others on the market, making it THE BEST visual source of information on individual placements as well as overall anchor configurations. As we all know, "a picture is worth a thousand words." And, in this case, a picture could be worth your life as well. I could go on and on about how/why this book is so much stronger than others out there. Some highlights are below:
   
   - Luebben's mechanical engineering background is very apparent when you read this book. Being an engineer myself, I really appreciate having a book written by someone who truly understands the mechanics involved with anchor rigging.
   - He explains the v-angle and pulley effect (which others only elude to), and there is an appropriate distinction between body weight -- top roping, seconding, rappelling forces -- versus leader fall forces.
   - There is a whole chapter explaining climbing physics, and there is a lot more information about cam and nut design and placement considerations.
   - Many more anchor rigging options are discussed and pictured, including some minimalistic ones just using slings.
   - Luebben does a much better job explaining how to make judgment-based decisions as opposed to following a standard set of rules for all situations.
   - All of the above factors make Luebben's book a better source for more experienced climbers (in addition to beginners) than others on the market.
   - According to the back cover, Lynn Hill has even recognized Luebben's experience and knowledge, as she selected Craig to be the main anchor and self rescue trainer for her climbing camps - that's pretty cool!
   
   Bottom line...even if you have other books (new or old) it is well worth your money to invest in buying this book. So much has changed in anchor theory in recent years and this book brings together the latest and greatest options.



2. Craig breaks anchors down into clear concepts, some of which John Long made blurry. The only thing I would have liked were color pictures...simply because some of the anchors were hard to see in B and W.



3. I've read all the anchor building books and so far, I have found this one to be the best one. Easy to understand, backed up by testing, lots of pictures (a picture speaks a thousand words!), a well-written guide!
   
   I highly recommend this to all climbers out there!



4. Very current and well organized book! Craig Luebben has obviously absorbed the new anchoring concepts that have cropped up recently and has helped me understand the advantages and disadvantages to each new method. A better book in my opinion than John Long's new anchor book. Nicely illustrated and un-biased, this is the book I am recommending to my immediate/advanced clients. -Dave Lottmann, EMS Climbing Guide



5. I've been working my way into lead climbing and this is my favorite book on climbing anchors. After taking many classes and climbing with "old schoolers", the book really solidified what I had already learned and taught me many new modern techniques and "tricks". I also appreciate that the book presents the science behinds all the various anchor setups. Although there are hundreds of B&W photos, on occasion they are hard to decipher when showing complex setups. Climbing Anchors (second edition) by Long and Gaines is also an excellent book and covers the same material. Having read both has helped me tremendously!

5 comments about The Self-Coached Climber: The Guide to Movement Training Performance.

1. I bought this for my husband who just started climbing this past year. He has done extensive research at local rock gyms, hiking stores, online, and at the library and said this was one of the best resources out there. He really enjoyed the enclosed DVD, as well.



2. "The Self-Coached Climber" is an excellent training resource for climbers at just about any level. I bought the book recently and before even finishing reading it, I started seeing improvements in my technique from working on the exercises.
   
   In contrast to other books like "How to Climb 5.12," SCC is highly detailed and specific in its approach to improving fundamentals like balance, center of gravity and movement skills. The book provides excellent exercises for particular skills, and these are illustrated with abundant photos and/or drawings that show how the exercise should be done. Additionally, videos on the accompanying DVD can clarify any confusion with the exercises. Finally, a detailed training plan is presented for developing the stamina, strength and technique needed to move up in the climbing grades.
   
   I think it's worth noting that while this is billed as a "self-coached" training book, some of the exercises can't be done without a partner. In fact, working with an equally-motivated partner through the course of the book would probably be the ideal approach.
   
   I believe "The Self-Coached Climber" is a perfect companion piece to Arno Ilgner's mental training book "The Rock Warrior's Way" for anyone wanting to become a better and more confident climber.



3. Brilliant book.
   
   So many ideas for those non-professional climbers (like me) who don't have a coach.
   Turning, flagging, drop knees are fully explained. Chapter about Movement initiantion - was like total revelation to me. Plus it has DVD - so you can see how you MUST move.
   
   After reading this book I got really sceared: what if I had not bought it, then I might have spent hundreds of hours of my climbing training deepening bad climbing habbits !
   
   It certainly deserves six stars.



4. if you have climbed for a couple of months and want to
   1) understand better techniques and movements
   2) improve your style
   3) become more aware while climbing and watching others climb
   
   then this is a good starting point



5. When I bought this book, I was a 5.10/5.10+ climber with occasional luck on 5.11-. Now I am comfortably climbing 5.11/5.11+. If you are looking for ways to climb better and smarter, this is the book for you, no matter what your level. The authors thoughtfully break down every aspect of climbing and recommend specific exercises to improve them. Climbing makes more sense to me now, is easier, and most importantly feels amazing. If you want to train in a way that makes you a better and smarter climber, this book is for you.

5 comments about Between a Rock and a Hard Place.

1. I couldn't put this book down, as the saying goes, but it was true in this case. I have been a hiker for 30 years and I don't always tell people where I'm going, it seems pointless. But in this hiker's experience it would have been appropriate. The vivid detail of what he went through and how he ultimately saved himself is truly spell binding. I recommend it to anyone who likes survival stories.



2. Like many I heard about this in the national media and read some about it in Outside. Like many I thought what a jerk! This guy is an idiot. Well he is not. In this book he comes off as a very capable thoughtful adventurer. He managed his "problem" very well this book is highly entertaining. Even though you know what is going to happen it is still riveting. There is none of the jerk seen at the post press rescue press conference. Turns out he was high on painkillers for most of the presser. Luckily for readers he was not when he recorded this book. Excellent work of a most interesting life. Strong recommend for adventurers of both the outside and arm chair variety.



3. Aron is an inspiration to all of us and an incredible writer. He fully acknowledges his flaws as a human being which makes this book all the more powerful. He loves life to the limit and paid a high price to do so.
   
   My son was seriously injured in the Iraq war and I purchased a copy for him. It takes courage to make a good life...and Aron has no shortage of that.



4. I think readers would be better served by skipping every other chapter in this book or just searching online for Aron Ralston, you'll find it. A reader above mentioned he doesn't come off as bragging about his exploits, I found exactly the opposite.
   
   On one hand, Aron and I have been in many of the same places, (probably around the same time) and in a way, reading about his adventures in various places brought back great memories for me. On the other hand, If I wanted to read about his memoir, I'd have bought that book. Halfway through the book I found myself saying, just cut it off already!
   
   While I do respect his accomplishments in his winter solo ascents, I simply don't respecting his risky backcountry decisions. He is redeemed though by calling himself out, recognizing that he's lost friends over his past irresponsible backcountry recklessness. In a sense, the book is a primer for what not to do in the winter backcountry.
   
   I thought it was interesting how with Ralston's considerable experience, intelligence, engineering rigging skills and strength none of it mattered in the end. Just a guy with no more options that did what needed to be done.



5. I've a feeling we have not heard the last of Aron Ralston, but it won't be long before we do.
   
   His narration of the nearly fatal idiocy that cost him his right hand is interspersed with flashback stories of even greater follies accomplished during previous wilderness "adventures." We are regaled with accounts of running barefoot through the snow with a bear in pursuit, leaping fully clothed into a raging Colorado River for no apparent reason, rock climbing (in sandals, no less) over, and then falling into, a patch of prickly pear cactus, having his footwear fall apart midway up the face of a 2,000-foot sheer granite wall - these apparently recounted in hopes of showing what an accomplished (or at least, passionate) outdoorsman he is - are not the stuff of legend, or inspiration, or courage; they are the tales of a bonehead in search of a Darwin Award. An Hero.
   
   I continually found myself wondering why anybody who suffered such an unbroken string of disasters brought about by poor decision-making, unpreparedness, naivete, or downright pigheadedness would be set up as an inspirational character (or why anyone would seek to publicize their own stupidity thus); but then I remember Timothy Treadwell and his ardent supporters and followers.
   
   In any event, the straw that broke this camel's back was Aron's reviling us with an event he saw as amusing and clever: he and his friends composed a "joke" distress note and put it in an empty vodka bottle which they then threw into Havasupai Creek, to flow over Mooney falls, to perhaps "be found by a jet skier in Lake Mead." Right. More likely broken glass discovered by the waders barefoot downstream.
   
   Oh, I could go on and on.. and Aron does. A litany of grief and stupidity haunts this guy and anyone who does business with him. He manages to lose not only his ice axe on one winter ascent, but the team's only map as well, resulting in abandonment of their summit bid in lieu of an emergency hunt for a way off the mountain.
   
   I think of the disaster that befell the Everest climbers in Krakauer's "Into Thin Air", or the mystery of what happened to Irvine and Mallory detailed in "Ghosts of Everest" and innumerable other actually heroic stories, of excruciating ordeals, unbelievable fortitude and character displayed by many climbers and outdoorsfolk, and then I think of this clown losing his team's map while traipsing around on a 14,000 foot mountain, for cripe sake.
   
   I think about this jamoke going out in the wintertime to scale Colorado's mountains without proper clothing or food, or common sense or respect for the nature in general and mountains in particular. He hikes up mountains in the wintertime but has not the sense to put his chocolate bars or water in an inside pocket where they won't freeze, then bemoans the fact as if it were some giant life lesson Gaia bestows only on hardy souls (who venture forth thus unencumbered with brains).
   
   Feh. Do yourself a favor and skim the tripe. There are perhaps 100 readable pages in the book, and don't swallow any of Aron's stultifying psuedo-religious gobbledygook or cerulean blue prose-poems; it's mostly blather perpetrated by a not-too-bright adrenaline junkie who very well could be the next famous bear scat.

5 comments about Rock Climbing: Mastering Basic Skills (Mountaineers Outdoor Expert).

1. From beginner through intermediate, this guide to rock climbing will not only teach you the basics, but provide you with exercises to help you improve your technique.



2. it may not be perfect, but it does everything it needs to (at least for me). as per the title, i'd recommend this book to any beginner or strong gym climber who wants to move to real crags. for advanced climbers who want to improve their skills there are probably better books out there.



3. Guide, author and climbing gear inventor Craig Luebben's book won a National Outdoor Book award and it's well deserved. For anyone taking up rock climbing, or wanting to bring their knowledge up-to-date this is the book to start with.
   
   It's well organized and well-illustrated. Luebben starts the basics of pure climbing - footwork, holds and jams along with special climbing challenges like chimneys and off-widths (he's the Yoda of off-width climbing). Then he covers the gear you'll need like shoes, harness and ropes. He describes basic climber knots and working with ropes and slings. Then he talks about protection, natural and man-made.
   
   He tells you how to build anchors and keep your partner safe with proper belaying technique. He covers top-roping, sport climbing and the basics of traditional climbing including the approach, route-finding, setting pro and the physics and psychology of leading.. Later chapters introduce multi-pitch free climbing, descending and rappelling, bouldering and training for climbing. The concluding chapter explains how to avoid turning your climb into an epic by learning basic self-rescue techniques.
   
   This is by far the best, most up-to-date book on basic rock climbing. After you've read it (more than once) and practiced the skills he describes, get Luebben's book on building climbing anchors.
   
   Bill Becher



4. Excellent starting place to get into this kind of book, very good reference. I've been climbing for the last five years, and I learned a lot from this book.



5. As a relatively new climber (i.e., as of this writing, I've been climbing about 7 months), I found that this was a good introductory text to keep around. Granted, climbing is not something you really want to read-then-do; think of the reading as a good supplement to your training and climbing.
   
   I enjoyed how Luebben dives right into the material; he keeps the introduction short and then goes immediately into the science and sport of rock climbing. He writes in a colloquial style that is easy to digest and presents the material in a way that makes it seem like a conversation. It's like it's you and him out on the rock, Luebben telling you everything he needs you to know.
   
   While the book's focus is definitely on outdoor climbs, Luebben emphasizes techniques that should easily transfer to indoor rock gyms. Especially early in the text, Luebben writes a lot about body and foot position, how to approach routes and problems, and the mental elements of rock climbing. While these techniques are typically discussed in an outdoor context, the lessons all easily transfer to whatever surface you're climbing.
   
   For a new, mostly indoor climber like myself, there seemed to be a lot of material in this book that either didn't apply to me or served merely to whet my appetite for outdoor routes. If you're looking for something specific to indoor climbing, you're probably better off exploring Matt Burbach's Gym Climbing book. Still, even a mostly-indoors beginner climber will find the chapters on body position, footwork and hand-holds, knots, belaying, and bouldering to be useful.

5 comments about Touching the Void: The True Story of One Man's Miraculous Survival.

1. I read this book and could hardly believe what I was reading. It only took me one night to read this because I was so captured by the adventure.
   
   Great quick read about making choices and having good luck on ones side.



2. As many other reviewers have said, the subtitle of this book is true: the story is indeed miraculous. The book is a quick read, and the terror, desolation and troubling moral questions of the experience are palpable. I found myself squirming and uncomfortable at several points, and this is due mainly to Joe Simpson's talent as a writer.
   
   It must be said that it is apparent that this is Simpson's first book, and this is why I deducted half a star. There is the occasional awkward sentence, and the book ends on a pretty weak poker analogy. Still, he displays a great clarity of insight throughout that easily overcomes these small problems. His craft may be in the fledgling stage here, but Simpson clearly possesses a writer's mind; he is able to clearly articulate complex ideas and emotions in a very immediate, engaging way.
   
   I would hope people don't dismiss this as a book for climbers or outdoor adventurers. The story, as well as Simpson's writing, definitely transcends this narrow category and becomes a universal story of perseverance, moral ambiguity and courage. There is quite a bit of technical description of climbing here--which is absolutely essential to telling the story properly--but as someone who knows very little about climbing, it was not a hindrance to me at all. If you've seen even a few pictures of mountains, or caught a few minutes of climbing on the Discovery Channel, a quick read through the short glossary is all you need..you will find that things like cornices, abseiling, etc. are easy enough to visualize.
   
   By the time you finish this book, you will be astonished. Joe Simpson's torturous ordeal, as well as Simon Yates' battle with his conscience over cutting Joe free, make for a terrifying and moving story. It's worthwhile to follow the book up with the excellent movie.



3. Even though I obviously knew he would live through the experience, I found myself on the edge of my seat hoping he would make it. A good story-teller telling an incredible story.



4. What an experience. Miraculous is the correct word. Other reviewers have discribed the situation for you. I will just concure that this is a must read.
   
   Much better than Jon Krakauers - Into Thin Air because it's more intimate imo. Into Thin air is about a big expedition up Mount Everest. Touching the Void is about two men.
   
   Two men together, Simon Yates attemping to save Joe Simpsons life by slowly lowering him down the Mt. 300 ft. at a time.
   You can just feel the agonising Simon Yates went thru. I mean he stayed and hung on to Simpson for as long as was humanly possible. I really felt for him.
   
   Than it was one extremely determined soul fighting to live.
   
   Some nice pictures too.
   
   Highly recommended



5. If you liked "Into Thin Air," then you will love this book, which is just as brilliant and perhaps even more incredible. If you've been to Peru, even better. Great writing, great story, and an unforgettable tale. Again, a rare book that once begun, is almost impossible to put down. Simpson has written some others, but none as good as his first. Read it. And try his "This Game of Ghosts" if you want more.

5 comments about Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff.

1. Having suffered with three broken shoulders with arthritus in them, I highly recommend this book for people with shoulder problems. The book gives you an understanding of the shoulder area and some really good exercises to help you stretch and strengthen your shoulder muscles. The exercises are easy to do and don't require a lot of expensive equipment to perform them. As my chirpractor and I agree, if you don't use it, you loose it.
   
   Another book to consider purchasing along with this one is "The Trigger Point Therapy Workbook" by Clair and Amber Davies, which is a tremendous resource for people in pain. Stretchening and strengthening your muscles, without first dealing with the knots (trigger points) in them can cause more pain. After having tried many natural remedies for my shoulder pain, I've found this trigger point program coupled with the shoulder exercises works best for dealing with pain. Glucosamine while it helped, did not totally alleviate the pain. Magnet therapy helped for awhile, but eventually made the pain worse. Chiropractic treatments, which used trigger point therapy worked for a time, but then my knots would return and cause pain. I didn't know the importance of at least six times a day massaging your central trigger points until the knots are gone.
   
   "The Trigger Point Therapy Wookbook" has excellent information on the muscles. It also has excellent charts which help you locate specific trigger point (knots in your muscles) which cause pain. It tells you how to message those painful areas to get rid of the knots in your muscles. While the information is thorough, it is written for the lay person in an understandable way.
   
   I also highly recommend a Thera Cane, which is like having very long, totally mobile arms, which enable you to message hard to reach trigger points. These three excellent products work together for effectice pain relief. While these two books and Thera Cane may seem expensive, they are much cheaper than repeated Chiropractic visits.



2. I found Jim Johnson's book to contain an amazing amount of information in a relatively short read. There are several very good reviews that detail what he covers in this book so I'll stick to points not covered by the other reviews.
   
   First, yes, it is a small book. This is actually a bonus because he covers the pertinant material thoroughly but keeps the book to a size easily read in one sitting. This is important when you are looking for answers and not a lengthy read. I found illustrations and the text were all useful - there is no filler or fluff in this book.
   
   Second - the stretches and exercises are explained in detail so you can be comfortable with the knowledge you are doing it right. So, as you follow one of the 3 programs laid out, you can refer back to the detailed descriptions and illustration as needed. If you are a picture person and not a verbal person, this is priceless to have on hand.
   
   Third - the information on how to distinguish the different types of injuries and how to approach rehabilitation gave me insight to what was going on with my own injury that no professional I had taken this problem to have ever bothered to explain. Again, illustrations were to the point and provided clarity that words can't always deliver.
   
   Last, I have sought medical advice with my shoulder problems off and on for years yet this book gave me more information in a 30 minute read than I had gotten in any consultation. This book is priced around $30 retail and that is far less than a doctor or physio visit.
   
   Note that I am *NOT* saying to skip seeking medical advice, I am saying that this book gives you a ready reference to supplement your knowledge and to keep on hand while treating your injury. If you are like me, the shoulder problems you have will quite possibly reoccur as time goes by and you either quit doing the exercises and revert to bad habits or if you find a new way to injure yourself. So, having this book handy for reference is far more economical the returning to the doctor over and over again.



3. Just the information needed to help you and not more! That's "Treat Your Own Rotator Cuff." Johnson writes clearly for the non-medical-professional, so you'll understand his message easily and get started right away (today).
   
   About six months ago, I fell. A perfect four-point landing, I thought at the time, but it turned out to be more, much more. Within a month I began having trouble pulling a shirt on over my head. Then shoulder and arm pain settled in full time.
   
   I decided to forego conventional medical treatment (for example, shots and surgery), and the pain continued. In fact, it not only continued, but grew so much worse that I considered revising my decision about the shots. However, finding this book and reading the glowing recommendations for it, I decided giving managing the problem on my own one last try.
   
   Of course, getting the book did not solve the problem by itself. I had to use the information to stretch and exercise. So I did, and, sure enough, after a couple of weeks I saw both improved range of motion and less pain.
   
   The stretches and exercises are not necessarily pleasant, but the results make it worth the effort.
   
   If you have rotator cuff pain, get this book. Regardless of whether you decide on conventional solutions to the problem, you'll need the stretches and exercises to regain full range of motion. Stick with the program. It works!
   
   Highly recommended.



4. After two weeks of following the exercises in this book, I made more progress than six weeks of PT. I like this book because not only does the author explain what to do, he also explains WHY.



5. I was very impressed with this book as soon as I thumbed through it. The first section has diagrams and definitions of the shoulder. The anatomy and physiology are explained in grade school terms. (this is very helpful to people that are in so much pain that they can't think straight)
   
   I have just had rotator cuff surgery and have been through physical therapy several times for rotator cuff problems. The exercises are identical to some of the exercises that the physical therapists teach us.
   
   I highly recommend this book to anyone with rotator cuff problems, however, if your symptoms are not improving you will need to get an MRI to determine if you have tears or bone spurs.

5 comments about Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills.

1. I purchased this book after recently jumping into the sport of rock climbing. This book is a great guide on many of the fundamentals of camping, hiking, rock climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and the outdoors in general. Freedom of the Hills is a very easy book to read and find information easily. There are many diagrams illustrating techniques, knots, and equipment. I was very impressed with this book and will take it with me on all my outdoor adventures from now on!



2. Never before have I found such a complete reference manual for how to plan and execute trips in the outdoors. The book is timeless in its core message of preparedness and finding freedom in the outdoors. It collects information from a wide range of topics such as how to choose equipment for your needs to cooking in the outdoors and proper mountaineering skills. There is some discussion of ethics and philosophy, but no more than is necessary.



3. This book pretty much covers everything you need to know about mountaineering. It does so in an easy to read, concise style. It really stresses the philosophy of being an educated and environmentally aware mountaineer. The illustrations are also great...very clear and informative.
   You won't be disappointed with this book.
   Here's the Table of Contents:
   
   Part I (Outdoor Fundamentals)
   (1) First Steps
   (2) Clothing and Equipment
   (3) Camping and Food
   (4) Physical Conditioning
   (5) Navigation
   (6) Wilderness Travel
   (7) Leave No Trace
   (8) Stewardship and Access
   
   Part II (Climbing Fundamentals)
   (9) Basic Safety System
   (10)Belaying
   (11)Rapelling
   
   Part III (Rock Climbing)
   (12) Alpine Rock-Climbing Technique
   (13) Rock Protection
   (14) Leading on Rock
   (15) Aid Climing
   
   Part IV (Snow, Ice and Alpine Climbing)
   (16) Snow Travel and Climbing
   (17) Glacier Travel and Crevasse Rescue
   (18) Alpine Ice Climbing
   (19) Waterfall Ice and Mixed Climbing
   (20) Expedition Climbing
   
   Part V (Emergency Prevention and Response)
   (21) Leadership
   (22) Safey
   (23) First Aid
   (24) Alpine Rescue
   
   Part VI (The Mountain Environment)
   (25) Mountain Geology
   (26) The Cycle of Snow
   (27) Mountain Weather



4. I was gifted this book at age 16; nearly eight years later I look through it constantly, and realize I always have...it was used as a high-school outdoor-ed text, it is considered the bible by most I know, and it has been around for along time..Three Cheers for the Mountaineers!



5. The best book I've about getting ready to face mountains.
   Incredible amount of great info.
   A wonderful learning tool.