Who’s this course for?
This course is designed specifically for those people who are;
- already confidently lead belaying indoors
- want to safely second a trad climber and get outside climbing!
- want to learn all the techniques and tips you need to be a competent second
- want to know if the leader you follow is actually being safe (!!!) – Get to know the basic safety elements of trad climbing – don’t just rely on your leader, because they might be wrong!
I was a ‘second’ for a year before I became a trad leader myself. In that time I learnt so much, it was an apprenticeship, and gratefully I went out with wonderful, safe and competent leaders, and I have gone on to take those skills with me.
I don’t think anyone should rush into trad climbing as a leader – learn how to place gear by taking it out, and check out how your leader sets up their anchors whilst you sit safely in their hands in incredible remote places. Pick up all the tips and tricks seconding until you feel confident to do it yourself.
So this course is for you – the ones who want to adventure safely, and know for sure that you’re in safe hands.
What’s the content of the course?
- how to assist with rope management And some helpful personal tips I’ve picked up along the way.
- Taking gear out safely and effectively
- Re-racking gear
- What is a safe anchor
- Abseiling, and what is best practice
- Belaying with half ropes
- What gear you will need and what you will see
- Climbing communication
- Knowing what is going on in the leader’s world, and what those tugs on the rope mean.
- Tactile belaying – the leader’s story
- How a leader should protect a second – how to manage a traverse
Duration
6 Hours
Location
Local outdoor climbing venue TBC upon booking – let me know where you are on the enquiry form and how far you are able to travel.
Cost
£75 per person, up to 6 people within a session. There needs to be a minimum of 3 people for course to run. For smaller group sessions please get in touch.
Vertical Victories 