Lessons

CLIMBING LESSONS

Learn to Belay

What: Learn the basics of top-rope climbing, including:

  • Tying into a climbing rope using a retraced figure eight knot
  • How a belay device functions
  • Proper set up of the belay system
  • How to belay and lower a climber
  • Effective communications between climber and belayer using standard commands and responses
  • Partner safety checks
  • Basics of climbing movement
  • Plenty of practice with all of your new skills!

When: Schedule a time that works for you. Just call 603.838.5300 or contact us to schedule a lesson.

How Long: Lesson usually takes 1 to 2 hours, depending on how quickly students pick up the concepts.

Who: This lesson is perfect for:

  • People who want to become independent indoor climbers
  • People who have not climbed in a very long time
  • Parents who want to learn to belay their children

*The Learn to Belay package may not be ideal for first time climbers; we recommend checking out our Open Climb package instead!

Introduction to Lead Climbing

What: Learn how to lead climb and lead belay at N3C, including:

  • Proper lead belay technique:
    • Spotting the leader to the first clip
    • Taking in and paying out rope for the leader as needed without introducing excessive slack in the rope or interfering with climber progress
    • Positioning relative to the climber and the pull of the rope
    • Catching lead falls
  • Proper lead climbing technique:
    • Smoothly and efficiently clipping the rope through quick draws
    • Choosing the best holds from which to clip quick draws
    • Clipping the best quick draws for a particular route
    • Recognizing and avoiding z-clipping and back clipping
    • Positioning feet safely relative to the rope
    • Taking lead falls
  • Plenty of practice with all of your new skills!

When: Call 603.838.5300 or contact us to schedule a lead climbing lesson.

How Long: Two sessions, a week apart. Lessons usually take 2 to 3 hours depending on how quickly students pick up the concepts.

Who: This lesson is experienced climbers who have mastered top rope belaying and are looking for a new challenge.