How do you grade traditional routes and what does it all mean? Read on to find out more.
Grading is often the source of much controversy especially with first ascents. Once a route has become established and repeated a few times the grade becomes more secure. However if all the climbers who repeated the route were between 5'7 and 5'10 and you are either under 5'0 or over 6'3 the grade could be very different. As a result it is best the use grades as a guideline and not stick to them religiously.
Thorough preparation is essential for successful climbing. This article considers: The weather, clothing, food and drink, warm up and stretching, organisation and surveying the route.
Assessing the potential risks associated with climbing is not normally something that climbers do consciously. We do it through experience, using large amounts of common sense and being systematic in our preparations. Taking part in a potentially life threatening pastime concentrates the mind.
How to organise and maximise your protection for short route or multi-pitch climbs using harnesses and bandoliers.
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Tim is a professional climber and extreme sports athlete. He is an inspirational speaker and author which has led to him presenting many BBC programmes. He has recently climbed the first ascent of possibly the most famous ice climb in the world - Helmcken Falls, Canada. Nominated for the 'Piolet D'Or' award and has been amongst the winners 4 times at the World Ice Climbing Championships.
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