A trained rock climbing instructor will take anywhere from ten minutes to two hours to teach you correct belay techniques. The time variation reflects the philosophy of the gym. Some gyms feel it’s necessary to walk clients through the process with constant supervision over the course of hours. Most gyms, however, feel comfortable with a short but thorough lesson, followed by a test, followed by observation and correction from staff members over the course of your visit. A few of the essentials that you will learn are:

• How to check and double check your harness for fit and security
• How to lock and unlock a locking carabiner
• How to safely use a ”grigri” (self-braking belay device)
• How to correctly tie in to the rock climbing rope, being sure to thread the rope through the proper parts of your harness
• How to tie a double figure eight knot (to tie yourself into the belay system before rock climbing) and how to double check the knot for safety
• How to anchor yourself to the floor of the gym when belaying
• The correct commands for preparing to climb and belaying
• How to take in rope as your climber ascends the wall
• How to let rope out if your climber decides to retreat from a move
• How to arrest a fall
• How to safely lower your climber to the ground

Cost: $20 to $40

Notes:

• Even though you may have climbed previously with a friend, and think you know how to belay, most gyms will require that you take their belay class and test. It’s a matter of safety, so try not to take it personally if you’re asked to relearn what you believe you already know.
• Some gyms make auto-belay systems available to climbers who are rock climbing alone. As a beginner, avoid these systems. Learning to belay is essential, and for your purposes, an auto-belay system isn’t practical. Be skeptical if you’re offered this as a beginner.