What qualifications are there?

Question

so im looking to take up rock climbing i have done it in the past quite a bit but i want to take it more seriously so i was wondering what qualifications are there to do in rock climbing and how do they cost? and do you have to be a certain age because im only 16

thanks

Answer 1

Since you said "rock" climbing, I assume you mean outdoor climbing. There are no real certifications or qualifications - especially if you are top roping (with the rope set up to the top of the route on a fixed anchor). Basically, if you can climb it you are qualified. Since you cannot get hurt there is no problem just trying it as long as you have a trained belayer.

If you are wanting to lead climb, I would suggest taking a lead climbing class or climbing with an experienced lead climber. Trad climbing (where you set your own protection in the cracks) is a very special kind of climbing where you should have some experienced guidance in setting pro and setting anchors.

Good Luck

Answer 2

Check out the AMGA (American Mountain Guide Assoc.) or IME (International Mountain Expeditions) websites,and if you have to, EMS (Eastern Mountain Sport) or the AMC (Appalachian Mountain Club) also have guide / climbing programs just google them, you'll find most of what you are looking for.

It appears that you have been rock climbing, so qualifications (needed to climb in indoor rock gyms) are something you have. Basically as everyone has been saying. Find others that are confident in their skills such as lead climbing or top roping, and follow their instruction.

Wanting to learn more is always good, but you have to remember "Not everything has to be taught in a formal class room environment, nor can it be".

Answer 3

I don't think there are any qualifications, unless you want to become a guide.

Other than that, perhaps taking a class or some instruction from a guide to learn better or more advanced technique.  Then...just get out and climb.

Answer 4

To belay at certain gyms you usually have to be over 14 or 15, so you should be fine in that aspect.

I'm not sure if you're asking how much a day pass or a membership will cost, or if you're asking how much gear will cost.

If you want your own shoes, harness and chalkbag, that's going to set you back about $120-$150

Day passes usually cost around $10-$20

I have no idea what membership to your gym will cost

Good luck

Answer 5

I have class credit in Basic Rock from UCSC.

Commercial climbing walls tutor folks who want

personal experience in controlled environment.

I began learning at 17 inside muddy karst with

The National Speleological Society, Inc.  Yeah,

same organization will enroll reader as member

at age 16 if underground climbs are of interest.

There might be a regional monthly meeting near

your residence so you can go chill with cavers.