Introduction

In this lesson, you will learn the skills necessary for passing a belay certification test at an indoor climbing gym.

Even though the certification tests will vary from one climbing gym to another, the following skills always need to be demonstrated:

1. Tying into a harness using a Figure-8 knot.

2. Using basic climbing commands or communication

3. Using a belay device properly.

4. Using a proper belay technique.

Top-Rope Basics

Top-rope climbing is the most common type of climbing, both in climbing gyms and outdoors. A top-rope climb is set up with a rope anchored at the top of the climb. At climbing gyms, the rope is usually wrapped around a metal pole at the top of the wall. Outdoors, the rope is usually threaded through a carabiner, which is anchored in place with 2 or 3 other anchors.

Safety is critical in any sports, but especially in climbing. Every topic that these lessons cover focus on the safety of the climber, the belayer, and anyone else nearby: the knots are the most effective and secure knots; the communication between the climber and belayer informs each other of actions and reactions while climbing; the belay techniques ensure the safety of the everyone if the climber should fall.

Since top-rope climbing is the most basic type of climbing, it also prepares you for most advanced climbing. However, the only way to get better at these skills is to practice! So after you go through these lessons, get out and get up!

Boulders 'n Belays