Free Solo Rock Climbing is a type of rock climbing, in which the climber uses no artificial aids to make upwards progress. In this way, the climber will use only hands, feet and other parts of the body. Ropes and protective equipment are used only for protection against the consequences of a fall.

Free solo climbing is the sport of scaling rock walls without the use of tools or support equipment. In this sport, a strong and agile body is mandatory, as is a tough, well-prepared mind. Free solo climbing is the most popular form of climbing, in part because it leaves the rock face in an unspoiled condition after a climb. Despite its popularity, free solo climbing is still a dangerous sport that should not be attempted by those with weak bodies and/or minds.

Scale large rocks and cliffs without the aid of ropes or support equipment.

There are no formalized rules for free solo climbing beyond climbers not being able to use tools or equipment for support. Due to safety concerns, some areas have restrictions on boulders that can be climbed.

The climbing of rocks, cliffs and mountains for recreational pursuits began in Europe in the early 19th century. The sport of rock climbing, a pursuit calling for distinct athletic ability, emerged from more leisurely practices at the end of the 19th century. In the 1960's free solo climbing became the dominant form of climbing due to its basic, unrefined nature. Today free solo climbing remains the most popular form of climbing, with participants and locations dotting the globe.

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Free solo climbing is a dangerous sport due to extreme heights and lack of support equipment. Participants should make many practice attempts prior to climbing, and should only climb rocks at their skill level. Learning from an experienced teacher is highly recommended.

Physically, weight training can build the necessary strong arms and shoulders, while aerobic exercise and yoga can develop good flexibility and agility. Mentally, climbers must develop a strong disposition, capable of blocking out external elements.

Deep Water Soloing - solo climbing on cliffs where falling would result in a harmless drop into deep water

Grade - level of climbing difficulty of a boulder

Hold - any rock feature that can be used by the hands or feet to ascend a boulder

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