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Caving is the exploration of caves - caves which may or may not have been explored before, usually as a group.

Popularity
Caving clubs exist in many parts of the country, even where there are no local caves. Clubs also offer regular organised caving trips with experienced cavers which is an excellent opportunity for beginners to learn.

Location
there are lots of different types of cave - horizontal, vertical, horizontal and vertical, flooded, dry, hot, cold, humid, drafty, muddy, sandy, the list goes on and on. Most caves in the UK are not hot or humid.

Age
Children can get involved in caving by going to explore safe cave which are open to the public. This can kindle an interest, which can be explored from the age of about 14 upwards.

Ability
Training is a good idea as there are many aspects to caving that you are unlikely to have come across. Training also involves learning to treat the cave environment properly, with respect to conservation

Description
Caving is the exploration of caves. It may not be the first time a cave has been entered but it might be exploration on a personal level by someone who has not been in that particular cave before. Caving usually involves being part of a group of cavers who often get as much fun out of being together as a group as being in the cave. It might mean helping each other through obstacles, sharing the wonder of a passage's beauty with others or just having a good sporting trip.

Dedication
Caving can mean getting cold and wet, which is sometimes part of the fun. With the proper caving attire it is easy to keep warm and comfortable even after a total immersion. A wetsuit protects against cold water very effectively but can get chilly if you are not moving for a long period of time. Modern undersuits allow the body to warm up very quickly after a ducking and the suit often dries very quickly once you are moving.

Potential
Once you get into caving there are specialities such as SRT (single rope technique), climbing, digging, cave diving, cave photography and cave art.

Closely Related Activities
Spelunking 681.

Cost
Basics including an over-suit, boots, helmet, light and belt. Cavers might also invest in knee and elbow pads for protection. In wet caves a wetsuit may be worn.

Level of Demand
The table below shows the maximum levels of demand that this activity requires. NOTE: These are not entry levels or levels of requirement and has nothing to do with ability.

Energy

Arms

Legs

Sight

Hearing

Speech

Learning

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