Stu contacted Monsterclimbs in the Spring of 2011 to book a course to learn to trad lead climb, but circumstances were against him and time passed by. However, everything comes to he who waits and 12 months later than anticipated, Stu completed a Monsterclimbs trad lead course in the Wye Valley. After a very cold start to February […]
Part 12: Using fixed gear
Placing gear on lead can seem daunting, but if you start off with easier climbs and build up you will make natural progress. One of the key elements of this is to feel solid and comfortable whilst selecting and placing gear wherever you are on the rock face and whenever opportunities present themselves. Be aware […]
Sport Climbing in Sardinia
Ali has visited Sardinia several times for both personal climbing and to teach and finds it one of the most beautiful and rewarding climbing areas in Europe. Sardinia is the Italian Island off the west coast of Italy and to the south of Corsica. The countryside is unspoilt and the towns and villages have the […]
Part 11 – Learning to Trad Lead Climb: Gear & Building Belays
Once you have been tempted outdoors and begin leading sport routes, you soon realise that this type of climbing is quite restrictive. You can only climb where there are routes with bolts. In order to develop your skills and experience more adventurous climbs on mountain crags and sea cliffs, you will have to learn to […]
New Year teaching in Costa Blanca
Ali was lucky enough to escape the drab winter weather over New Year with a last minute booking to the Costa Blanca. Giada (an Italian living in Switzerland) flew in from Milan, Ali from Gatwick and they met in Valencia. Arriving late morning they were able to get a few hours in during the afternoon, revising […]