Course Content & Skills Learned

Over three days, participants can expect a mix of theoretical instruction and practical application on the rock. Common topics include: 

• Route Selection & Planning: Using guidebooks and assessing terrain and weather conditions.

• Anchor Building: Constructing secure belay stations, often using bolts for sport climbing.

• Rope Management: Efficient techniques for handling the rope at belay stances to prevent tangles and ensure safety.

• Belaying Techniques: Specific methods for belaying both the leader and the second climber from the anchor.

• Transitions: Efficiently swapping leads at belay stances to minimize time and effort.

• Rappelling/Abseiling: Techniques for a safe descent and retreat from routes.

• Emergency Preparedness: Basic self-rescue techniques and first aid considerations

• Leading: For those with prior experience, the course focuses on leading multi-pitch routes, and managing exposure.

Course Itinerary

• Day 1: Focuses on foundational skills, ground school, and potentially single-pitch practice to master systems like anchor building and rope handling.

• Day 2: Application of skills on actual multi-pitch routes or short mock multi-pitch. Often with the guide leading initially to demonstrate efficient techniques. 

• Day 3: Climbing a longer multi pitch route.  Breaking into two groups with an additional guide if needed. Participants take a more active, independent role, leading pitches (if ready) and applying all learned techniques, consolidating their routine and confidence.