Sport Climbing 101 – Gym to Crag
Learn the fundamentals and become a safe, competent and independent outdoor sport climber.
This CCA course will cater to those starting out climbing, gym climbers, and those looking to improve their skills and knowledge in sport climbing.
The primary focus of this course is on safety, proper technique, and enjoyment of the sport.
Participation
This event is for current (paid) CCA members only. You cannot join CCA on the day of the course (* see note about CCA membership below).
The course is a four-part series. As it is sequential, all sessions should be attended.
Registration
Event registration is required and is available now:
The cutoff for registration is Thursday 30 April.
Please note that there is high demand for this course and early registration is recommended. Payment details will be forwarded to you once your registration is accepted by the trip leader. Payment then confirms your place on the course.
(* Note about CCA membership: if you’re not a CCA member yet, please join CCA via our website. Your membership will be active as soon as you’ve completed the online signup and payment, and you can then register for this event straight away. It takes up to a month to receive your member’s card after you submit the membership application form and pay the membership fee)
Dates and venues
- Thursday 7 May – evening (6.30pm – 8.30pm) at Mountain Strong bouldering & fitness gym, Fyshwick – introduction.
- Saturday 16 May – Snake Rock, Namadgi National Park, ACT.
- Thursday 28 May – evening (6.30pm – 8.30pm) at Mountain Strong bouldering & fitness gym, Fyshwick – skills workshop.
- Saturday 30 May – Tianjara Falls, NSW.
- Saturday 6 June – Thompson’s Point, Nowra, NSW.
Cost
$300 per person (concession $200, evidence required). Fee is to be paid when registering and is a contribution to the CCA insurance and CCA equipment.
Gym entry and transport to the course venues is not included; carpooling is recommended.
Essential equipment
Each participant must provide the following climbing gear in good, serviceable condition that is not more than 10 years old. Equipment will be inspected.
- Climbing helmet
- Climbing harness
- 2 screw-gate carabiners
- Belay device – ATC or Grigi
- 60cm anchoring sling
- Either a 60m dynamic climbing rope OR 12 quick draws OR both
- Climbing shoes/boots
- Medium/large backpack
Course content
Practical climbing sessions – practical climbing time on rock is maximised.
Safety and risk management – safety checks ABCDEF, communication, climbing etiquette, environmental awareness, accident prevention.
Climbing gear and equipment – understanding different types of climbing gear and their functions. How to properly use gear – especially Grigri type belay devices.
Basic knots – how to tie essential knots for climbing.
Rope management – proper handling and management of climbing ropes.
Climbing technique – basic and advanced.
Belaying techniques – proper belaying techniques, including both top-roping and lead belaying.
Communication – effective communication signals between climber and belayer.
Lead climbing – clipping techniques, fall management, minimising rope drag, use of clip sticks.
Cleaning anchors.
Falling and resting – how to safely fall while climbing, and techniques for managing falls.
Identifying resting positions on the wall to conserve energy.
Basic abseiling.
Climbing routes and grading – understanding how climbing routes are graded and how to assess and choose routes appropriate to one’s skill level.
Problem solving and complicated terrain.
Fitness and strength training for climbing.
Overview of sport climbing opportunities in Australia and internationally.
Next steps in climbing – guidance on how to further develop climbing skills, including more advanced courses and outdoor climbing opportunities.
Instruction
Instruction will be provided by qualified and experienced volunteer leaders from CCA.
Insurance
CCA insurance includes public liability, and Association office bearers and volunteer activity leader accident policies.
Course participants are expected to carry their own medical/accident cover and ambulance cover as they deem necessary.
