Slackline

Slacklining is walking and balancing along a flat, stretchy strap called webbing, tied tight between two anchor points, usually trees. It's a bit like a tightrope, but the line bends, bounces and sways under your feet, so you're always making tiny adjustments to stay on. It started as a pastime among climbers and is now a circus skill and sport of its own.

A beginner slackline is wide, low and tight, strung just above the ground so a step off is only a small hop down.

Tricklining uses a bouncy line for jumps, turns, sitting and even flips. It's the showy side of the sport.

Longlining means walking much longer lines that sway a lot more, which takes real patience and focus.

Highlining is walking a line high above the ground, with the walker attached to the line by a harness and leash. It's strictly for experienced slackliners.

Waterlining is slacklining over water, where falling in is part of the fun.

Your Activity Leader starts with how to step on and off safely. Then it's time to stand. With a helping hand to hold, you place one foot along the line, bend your knee and look at a fixed spot ahead rather than at your feet. Arms go up and out for balance. Once standing feels steady, you try a few slow steps, then walking, turning and maybe a trick or two. Everyone wobbles, and that's all part of it.

Yes, and it's a lovely one to do as a family. Children are often brilliant at it, as they're close to the ground and happy to keep trying. Holding a hand, cheering each other on and counting steps together makes it feel like a team game. It's great for balance, focus and confidence, and nobody forgets their first walk from one tree to the other.

Comfortable clothes that let your legs move freely are best. Many people walk the line barefoot or in thin, flat-soled shoes, as they can feel the line better. Leave chunky boots, dangly jewellery and anything in your pockets to one side.

You might also like Hula Hoop, Tree Climbing and Parkour.

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