Rock Climbing OP 110

Rock Climbing Rock climbing has gained significant popularity over the past number of years. Because of this rise in popularity, professional associations have developed standards, certification programs, and general climbing information. Some of these groups are: Association of Experiential Education (AEE) American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) The Access Fund Leave No Trace (LNT) American Safe Climbing Association Local Clubs

Types of rock climbing and terminology Free Climbing: Using ropes, natural (e.g., trees, boulders) and artificial protection (e.g., nuts, camming devices) to ascend rock. Ropes and anchors are not used to support the climber’s weight during the ascent of the climb, but to protect the climber in the event of a fall Aid Climbing: Ropes and aids are used to support the climber’s weight during the ascent. Special aids might include rope ladders or special hooks.

Camming Devices Active Protection SLCD’s Adjustable Nuts Passive Protection Hex Nuts Tri Cams

Nuts SLCD Hex Nuts Tri Cams

Free Climbing Aid Climbing

Types of rock climbing and terminology 3. Free Soloing: Climbing alone with or without the use of ropes or any means of protection in the event of a fall. 4. Bouldering: Attempting a series of moves without any safety equipment. The climber typically does not stray farther than 10-12 feet from the ground, and spotters are used for safety.

Free Soloing Bouldering

Types of rock climbing and terminology 5. Lead Climbing: An experienced climber begins at the base of the climb, places anchors (camming devices, nuts, or bolts) and runs the ropes through these anchors as he/she advances. Lead climbing requires specialized knowledge and experience to execute safely. 6. Traditional climbing: The lead climber places passive (nonbolted) or camming anchors into the natural features of the rock.

Traditional Climbing

Types of rock climbing and terminology 7. Sport Climbing: As opposed to traditional climbing, this is generally considered to mean climbing routes that have permanent protection (e.g., bolts already in place) 8. Top-rope climbing: A type of free climbing where the climber is belayed from the top or bottom of the rock face using an anchor at the top of a climb. This is a common technique used for single pitch climbs for beginners and institutional groups. 10. Rappelling: Descending a fixed rope (with a single or double rope) by means of friction (belay/rappel) device attached to the harness. Should be done when possible with a backup belay rope.

Sport Climbing Rappelling

Climbing Commands Note: Insert names in blanks Belayer: ________ on belay. Climb when ready. Climber: ________ climbing. Belayer: Climb on. Once the climber reaches the top he/she says: Climber: Tension Belayer: Tension Climber: Ready to lower Belayer: Lowering

Video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=knfnOs48yuc http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i_-x8F1AvqI