What is free soloing? Climbing mountains without the use of ropes or safety equipment. 

Yes, you read that right.

To most people the idea sounds utterly insane or like something out of a Hollywood movie: Who in their right mind would voluntarily choose to *not* use potentially life-saving tools when attempting to climb in places where most people would be scared even *with* the help of climbing gear? 

Well, people who are living life on the edge and cherish every second to the fullest in light of their constant dance with death.

https://i.imgsafe.org/cf/cf2be11f3b.jpeg


<br>
## <center>Meet Alex Honnold</center>

<br>One of the most inspirational people I have heard about in recent years is Alex Honnold, probably the world's most successful free soloer who is still with us despite the odds.

Why is this man so inspirational to me? Because he is not governed by fear and his thoughts when he does what most people would never dare to imagine.

And thanks to advances in drone technology we have pristine footage of Honnold doing the unthinkable. We get to see him hang between the Earth and the sky using only his skill, climbing shoes and some chalk for a better grip.

https://i.imgsafe.org/cf/cf3940f252.jpeg

<br>
## <center>So let me get this straight...</center>

<br>You have to understand that free soloers are not *quite* as irresponsible as it may first sound. While it is true that Honnold climbs the most insane obstacles without the use of ropes, a lot of preparation goes into his climbing route beforehand, which is a sight in and of itself: The mountain is painstakingly cleaned of loose rocks and weeds that could end the life of even the best climbers in an instant. 

It will often take days or even weeks for Honnold and his helpers to make sure the route is as safe as possible before he drops the ropes and climbs the whole thing in one session. And all the preparation in the world cannot take away from how awe-inspiring and stunning it is to watch the man hang between the Earth and the sky with a smile.

https://i.imgsafe.org/cf/cf2c4b40fb.jpeg


<br>
## <center>Just watching it will trigger your brain's survival instincts</center>

<br>It is a real sight to see and can give us otherworldy amounts of inspiration to live a life of challenge, to overcome obstacles as a natural part of our life's unfolding, and to never get caught up in our heads when circumstances demand our clear and focussed presence in the moment.

There really is no point in me talking more about this: ***You have to see it!***

Without further ado, here is Alex Honnold for you, one of my all-time champions when it comes to casting our doubts aside about what we can achieve and to never give up on making our dreams a reality.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Phl82D57P58

***Needless to say, but I feel compelled to say it: Unless you are an absolute world-class professional in climbing don't ever attempt this yourself!*** 

Many free soloers have died in the process and all it takes is one wrong step for your life to end, even if you possess the highest climbing skills! Please take this dude's passion as mere inspiration to pursue your dreams ;)

<center><sub>All images taken from [The Northface's amazing video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Phl82D57P58) produced by [Camp4Collective](http://www.camp4collective.com)</sub></center>

Thanks for stopping by <3