“Idea of Falling to My Death is Insurmountable”: Free Climbing Icon, Alex Honnold Once Explained How Accepting ‘the End’ is Part of the Job

Mountain Climbing is one of the most dangerous activities in the world. It is considered one of the most thrilling activities. But one mistake can become the reason for hundreds of deaths. Climbers have to be extra careful of the conditions and their grip. One wrong prediction can throw the climber a thousand feet down. However, Alex Honnold, the star climber believes in accepting this fate before thinking of climbing a mountain. 

In march 2022, Graham Bensinger released a video compilation of various athletes talking about the dangers of their respective sports. Alex Honnold opens up about the importance of a strong temperament to accept the worse. 

Alex Honnold believes in accepting the ultimate reality

Graham Bensinger asked Alex about his mental preparation before going into the actual climb. Alex replied that he keeps manifesting different stages of climbing during the training period. He said, “I visualise the whole process of what it will feel like my fingers holding the holds.” 

Alex Honnold also informed that he manifests the disastrous ending as well. He said, “I think what it would be like to fall off different places.” He explained that there is no chance of his survival if he slips off. So there is no point in hindering one’s performance with that thought. “I mean the thing is the idea of falling to my death is insurmountable,” he admitted.

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He further added that if one can’t get over the fear of falling, then there is no point in even trying to participate in the sport. Alex said, “if I can’t get passed that fear then I probably shouldn’t be up there.” He explained that no one can suppress the fear of falling. There is no chance one can deliver the best performance till the time they are scared to go up. Accepting fate is the best solution for Alex. “You have to accept the whole thing,” he added. 

Alex’s approach has shown great results for him

The practical approach of Alex Honnold has helped him in his career. He is one of the most consistent performers in the history of solo climbing. The 37-year-old has delivered some of the most miraculous climbs in his career. He is the first climber to free solo El Capitan in Yosemite. 

Honnold is the best climber in the history of free solo climbing. He prefers to climb without the use of any rope or safety gear. A wrong judgment can lead to the quick end. However, his passion for the sport keeps him moving. 

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