As a follow up to our rock climbing courses, we have created this post to remind people of some of the skills taught on the course. This information is best used in conjunction with one of our courses and not as a stand alone guide.
As of Autumn 2021 the BMC have changed their guidance for setting up on Southern Sandstone. Before, it was recommended that people can clip one bolt for the set up (as this single bolt is backed up by another bolt). This is no longer recommended. Climbers should set up a equalised anchor system, as is common practice in the rest of the UK.
Personal safety
It’s imperative that we stay safe at the top of the rocks. As well as simple actions such as moving with care/sitting down when you can, we recommend that people wear a harness whilst setting up. This allows you to clip a short sling or rope into your harness belay loop which can then be clipped into a bolt. Make sure that this is short enough so that it stops you from falling off.
You may have noticed that we wear helmets but many other people don’t. Bowles has a legal duty of care to look after you whilst you are on our courses. Once you are no longer climbing with instruction, this is your choice. The risk of a rock falling or another climber dropping a krab on your head might be low, but it is still present.
Rope set up
Protecting the top move of a climb
Common Mistakes on sandstone
It’s impossible to list all the mistakes that are possible. Stick with what you have been shown on the course. Below is a list of the most common errors seen.
