The Basics

As we begin a great climbing season we need to remember that no matter what your experience level maybe- reviewing the basics is always a good idea!

Start with the rope: How do we care for the rope? What are the different types of ropes- and why is it important to know that? How do we inspect our ropes? When do we replace our ropes? All of these basics are important to ensure that when you load a force onto your rope it’s at the best that it can be!

Then move onto the knots: The Overhand knot, Figure 8 reweave, Figure 8 on a bight, Double Figure 8, Clove Hitch, Munter hitch, Double fisherman's knot, and all of the friction knots are just a few to start with. Once you can tie these without even looking then move on to some of the other less used knots.

The Gear: shoes, helmets, harnesses: how do we care for them, how do we know which ones are right for us, and then how do we inspect them to make sure that they are safe and ready for use?

The moves: How do we mantle? How do we gain hand holds in the crag? How do we grab jugs? What is a foot smear or how do we do a foot / toe jam into the crag? What about underclings? Try to teach these moves to a friend- after that learn some fun games that you can play close to the ground to help become better at doing those movements up on the crag!

These are just some of the basics to start thinking about and to start practicing as we enter the climbing season! Remembering the basics is the best way to improve on your skills as you climb!