I've been practicing the slacklining for over 3 months now. Its been a really interesting learning process.

At first it feels impossibly difficult but the initial learning curve is very steep, and soon I was able to spend a bit of time on the line, tentatively experimenting with steps.

As with any learning process, its a lot of it is about the brain and less the body. Looking back my 'breakthrough' moments they were;

• Not wearing shoes - focus on feeling the foot placement on the line
• Don't get frustrated by repeatedly trying the same move
• Come off the line while keeping some pressure on it to save getting 'slapped'
• Practice little and often
• All the movements should be dictated by the line. Forcing a movement rarely gets rewards.
• The old yoga mantra of 'come back to the centre'. What that means is stop the limbs moving by bringing balance into the 'core'.

Obviously im only just scratching the surface of what is possible, but its been a valuable process already in many ways. The process of learning something new is good in itself, and my core stability has noticably improved. The balance and the dexterity of my movements has definately notched up a level.

I'd highly recommend it for boating. Its cheap, and the kit will fit in a carrier bag. Its perfect for backyards and social holiday downtime. If you rig it conservatively your not going to hurt yourself either. That is if you dont mind some wicked slaps when falling off in the early days! - Bruised inner thighs anyone?

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