We’ll show you the barebones gear needed to climb outdoor routes safely as well as many of the bells and whistles that make life at the crag easier and more enjoyable.

There’s a whole world of knots out there but you can start sport climbing with a simple figure of eight, overhand and an eight on a bight.

They say ignorance is bliss… not so with belaying. Learn to keep your partners safe with proper belay technique, including gear operation, communication and catching whips!

Unless the top of a route can be accessed by foot, a member of every climbing party will need to lead each route, placing gear as they climb. After a route has been successfully led, an anchor can be set up for everyone else to safely top rope.

It can be intimidating at first, so we’ll show you how to clip and rest efficiently, communicate with your belayer and fall as safely as possible.

You’ll learn to set up anchors for top roping. When you’re ready to move on, you’ll need to get yourself and your gear down safely, ‘cleaning’ the route.

When your rope runs over a sharp edge, rappelling (abseiling) can be the safest way to descend. It’s also super fun and safe when done correctly!

Staying safe outdoors is about building good habits. We’ll teach you what safety checks to perform with your partners. We’ve also got safe habits to follow when your partner isn’t next to you.