Caving is the exploration of caves.

Caving is the recreational sport of exploring caves. Armed with helmets, rope and a much-need flashlight, cavers crawl through water, mud and tight quarters to find adventure in some of the last unexplored regions on Earth. Due to the unpredictable nature of caves, the sport is still considered dangerous. Participants should always use caution, and never explore beyond their level of experience.

Explore underground cave systems.

No formal rules exist for caving, except common-sense safety practices. Participants should take note of restricted areas, which are common in caves.

Humans have taken to caves for shelter, industry or safety for thousands of years. The studying and exploration of caves was a natural offshoot of this. As civilization progressed, and caves were less visited out of necessity, man took to exploring caves for sport and recreation. In the early 20th century, groups of cave enthusiasts who called themselves, "spelunkers," began recreationally exploring caves throughout New England. The number of cavers soon grew, which led to an increase in the exploration of isolated and hard-to-reach caves. This more extreme form of caving became extremely popular in the 1990's due to the explosion of extreme sports.

First-Aid Kit
Light-Mounted Helmet
Rope
Secondary Light Source
Waterproof Boots

Caving often occurs in extreme locations. Participants can experience hypothermia, flash floods and cave-ins. This being the case, an extreme amount of caution must be used at all times.

Participants should prepare themselves for caving by exploring small, easy-to-access caves, accompanied by an experienced caver. Once comfortable, more advanced caves can be attempted.

Hypothermia - the condition of having an abnormally low body temperature, typically one that is dangerously low

Spelunking - an antiquated term used for caving; now used to describe an inexperienced caver

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caving