For anyone who wants to learn how to rock climb! Our intro rock climbing course is aimed at both newcomers to the sport and indoor climbers who would like to get to grips with climbing on real rock. On all courses the emphasis is on climbing as much rock as possible, incorporating formal skills training into real days out on the crag(see: rock climbing skills photos).
During this full 5 day course, we train you in all aspects of outdoor climbing. In addition to covering all the important foundation and safety skills, you will also be taught techniques of belay construction and gear placement for leading and top roping. This culminates in the opportunity to make your first lead by the end of your course for those keen to do so.
Venues We offer a choice of venues for our intro rock climbing courses: Hathersage in the Peak District and Ilkley in Yorkshire, both in the middle of two of the two finest climbing regions in the country (see Dates and Prices page for more details).
Sample Itinerary Subject to weather and conditions we follow the general format below:
Day 1
Mon
Rendezvous for introductions and briefing, before heading out to the crag. Topics covered include:
Tying on and belaying.
Standard climbing calls.
Movement and technique coaching.
Lots of varied climbing, getting used to gritstone!
Day 2
Tue
Crag etiquette and using guidebooks.
Placing natural protection to form belay anchors.
Equalising anchors to set up top ropes.
Top roping and bottom roping sessions.
Day 3
Wed
Gear racking
Seconding climbs and removing gear.
Leading climbs on pre placed gear.
Day 4
Thur
Placing natural protection whilst leading.
Mental and physical leading strategies.
Lead coaching sessions.
Day 5
Fri
Rope management at belays.
Consolidation of lead climbing skills.
Self rescue and abseil retreats.
Fri PM course debrief and advice for the future.
Fitness and Experience Rock climbing requires good flexibility and balance, as much as outright strength. General outdoor fitness (see fitness level 1-2) is required for the course but no previous climbing experience is necessary. However, if you have done some indoor climbing recently at a local climbing wall prior to the course, then this would be ideal preparation.
EquipmentAll communal safety equipment (ropes etc) is provided by us. You are expected to come equiped with personal clothing and equipment. For the more specialist items including harness and helmet, hire is available if needed.
