The retied Figure of 8 knot The figure of 8 is easy to tie and easy to recognise if you have tied it wrong. Here’s a quick explanation (and a couple of videos) A length of rope is measured from its end to your shoulder (and this length will vary, so trial and error will give […]
Giada Pilo – Italian Climbing Goddess
When I met Giada, in September 2010, my first impression was a lady with drive and determination. She had climbed indoors with friends, but they seemed reluctant to teach her to lead climb, suggesting she wasn’t quite ready. In the first day of instruction she was not only leading indoors but taking leader falls. And […]
Part 1 – Choosing Climbing Shoes & Harness
If you think of climbing shoes as an essential piece of equipment and probably THE most important piece you are more likely to choose the right shoe for you. The correct fit of climbing shoes will give you the most pleasure and possibly a little pain from your climbing. The choice of shoes is amazing; […]
Climbing and other sports after hip replacement
It is well documented that I love climbing and other sports, and in 2007 after months of suffering excruciating pain in my right hip, I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis. Doctors told to come back in 15 years for a hip replacement. As the pain got progressively worse I wondered how long I could take Cocodamol, […]
From the Ground Up: Learn to Climb in 14 weeks
This is what the series will cover Week 1 Correct fit of shoes – choice of shoes Correct fit of harness – choice of harness Week 2 Tying in – Figure of 8 knot and retied figure of 8 knot Belay devices – origins and use Week 3 Climbing indoors – Communication Bottom rope belaying […]