| The first step of course is getting down the | | | | in a supportive and guided environment where |
| basics, not only for safety because rock | | | | questions and learning are encouraged. |
| climbing can be a dangerous sport, but also | | | | |
| to ease frustration and to make the climbing | | | | How To Find And Choose A Climbing School |
| experiences more enjoyable. | | | | |
| | | | Depending on where you live, there may be a |
| Where to begin? | | | | wide variety of schools to choose from or |
| | | | there may be very few. Check out the mountain |
| There are of course a host of sources for | | | | guides association for a list of guides in |
| information on climbing, from websites to | | | | your area and their accreditation. |
| books. From knots to lingo, the beginner | | | | |
| should be able to find out as much | | | | The American Mountain Guides offers a list of |
| information on climbing as they can absorb | | | | certified guides and accredited schools at |
| and retain. | | | | their website. |
| | | | |
| Climbing School? | | | | Likewise the British Mountain Guides |
| | | | Association, and the Canadian Mountain Guides |
| Many climbing gyms offer classes on basic | | | | Association, both provide similar |
| climbing skills and it can be a safe and | | | | information. All affiliated countries |
| supportive environment to learn in. | | | | association websites can be found at the |
| Additionally, depending on where you live, | | | | International Federation Of Mountain Guides. |
| climbing schools are becoming more popular. | | | | |
| A climbing school is usually part of a | | | | In addition to schools that are accredited, |
| guiding business and is simply a separate | | | | look for schools that offer small class sizes |
| guided excursion for beginners. Guides will | | | | and a good instructor to student ratio. |
| often spend an hour or two going over the | | | | |
| basics before the group heads to the outdoor | | | | The more one-one-one instruction time you can |
| destination. | | | | get the better. Some schools also offer |
| | | | classes by age, gender, or special needs. |
| The benefits of the climbing school are | | | | Call the school to find out what is |
| great. One, you're outdoors and climbing on | | | | available. |
| real rock, what could be better? Two, you're | | | | |