‘Frequently asked questions? If you have a climbing question contact monsterclimbs via the contact form and Ali will add your question to the FAQ’s list and answer it as comprehensively as possible.
What sort of climbing shoes should I get?
If you’re asking that question you are probably a beginner and thinking of buying your first pair of shoes. You will be given lots of advice, but you will want a pair that are board lasted, so they are quite stiff but you will need a tight fit. Climbing shoes are a piece of equipment, not clothing and should only be worn to climb in. If you can walk around in them they are too loose. Read week one ‘From the Ground Up’ for a more comprehensive answer
How do I know if a harness fits me?
A harness must fit snugly around the waist, with the belay loop dead centre and with enough tape left to extend through the loops on the waist belt, even if you are wearing a thick jumper. The middle loop at the back of the harness should sit in the middle of your back. Leg loops should fit comfortably around the top of the thighs, which if they are adjustable should have enough tape to extend through the loops.
I’ve just completed a beginner’s course in climbing, what should I do next?
You need to spend time consolidating what you have learnt so that it becomes second nature. Concentrate on developing your climbing technique and style not pushing the grade.
What sort of belay device should I buy?
A belay device can be used for both sport (single rope) and trad (double ropes), and for abseiling, so it is best to buy a universal belay device with two slots. And, if you buy a device with incorporated teeth it will allow you to use a wide range of rope sizes.
I don’t seem to be able to complete a climb, I get half way up and my arms just give out. What’s wrong with me?
It probably means you are pulling yourself up by your arms, rather than pushing from your feet through your legs. Your feet, and the shoes they are in, are the most important components of climbing. If you watch a good climber they will move their feet more times than their hands and spend more time looking for footholds rather than hand holds. The muscles in the legs are far larger than the arms and if you rely solely in your arms to pull your body weight up the wall, you are going to get tired. Think feet. Get your weight over each foot before you try and push upwards.
I’ve been climbing indoors for a while now, but would like to try climbing outside. I have no equipment, what should I do?
The best thing you could do is seek out a qualified instructor, namely me, Ali Taylor 07814555378. A good instructor will save you a lot of time and money by teaching you from the beginning in a safe and controlled manner. They will have equipment you can use to give you a taste of outdoor climbing and advice on what and when to buy should you become addicted like me.
I’ve been bottom roping for some time now and am quite strong, but I am becoming quite bored with the same routes. How can I become a lead climber?
Most climbing centres offer an Indoor Sport Lead Course for around £75 for a 4 week 2 hour course but they do not cover the transition to outdoor sport climbing. If you book a lead course with monsterclimbs, for £80 plus transport costs (minimum of 2 people) you will become competent to lead sport both at an indoor climbing centre and any outdoor sport crag, and be able to keep yourself safe and recover all your equipment from any sport crag in the World.