How to belay. Next, grip the climber .
How to belay. For a climber who is already familiar with using classic devices, it takes a little time to adjust. I had a hard time finding any information out there from actual contractors who work with them and their experiences when I was deciding to accept a contract with them. A belay device is a mechanical device that is attached to the belayer’s harness and is used to take in the slack rope. This article explains how to use guide mode for climbing + how to lower a climber in guide mode. How to belay using double (aka half) ropes. The belayer takes in the rope around the anchor; friction created by the rope enables the belayer to hold a slip. They vary in price, ease of use, safety features, and level of assistance with braking. Are you taking a belay test soon and wondering how to pass your belay certification? Learning how to belay is an important skill for any climber. Belaying in Feb 12, 2018 · Setting up a belay device Belay device – I’ve been to gyms where you test belaying on your own ATC device or use the devices set on the climbing gym ropes (usually a grigri, which is an assisted braking device). Belay techniques are an essential component of rock climbing and other vertical activities, serving as a critical safety measure for both climbers and belayers. Aug 4, 2022 · Rock climbing self rescue – In it's simplest form, escaping a belay is removing your body from the belay system and transferring the belay onto a stationary anchor. The goal is to remove ourselves from the system so we can provide further assistance to our climbing partner. In recent years, Figure 8’s have largely disappeared in climbing areas, due to the popularity of the ATC (how to rappel with an ATC), as well as the publicity of a few fatal accidents (more Aug 2, 2023 · While a static belay is appropriate for top-roping, when lead belaying you want to be mobile and give a dynamic belay. So this way, in case the climber were to take a fall all you need to do as the belayer is pull down. Most tubular-style belay devices are approved for rappel. Many climbing gyms will ask to see your belay certification or do a test before you are allowed to belay. ) Aug 7, 2025 · In order to belay safely, learn how to setup your belay device and practice the PBUS (Pull, Brake, Under, Slide) system. These articles explain how to belay using a top rope system and how to climb safely at an indoor climbing wall. Apr 16, 2025 · In this BELAY Solutions review, we’ll discuss which remote positions they hire for, how to qualify and apply, and the pros and cons of these work from home jobs. Get climbing together safely and effectively with the tips and techniques Feb 2, 2025 · While everyone knows that belaying is a vital part to keep climbing safe, you might feel daunted when you have to belay someone who is significantly heavier than you. Some gyms test on both the ATC and grigri so knowing how to use both may help you pass. Belaying is mainly about One of the first skills you need to master once you start climbing is how to belay. If you’re old, learn the “new” Petzl belay technique. Manual braking devices create friction by bending the rope in an S shape, flattening the rope as it is pulled through. The meaning of BELAY is to secure (a rope or cable) by turns around a cleat, pin, or bitt. We cover gear, setup, safety, communication and technique. Warnings Carefully read the Instructions for Use used in this technical advice before consulting the advice Feb 22, 2020 · This is the most common and popular belay device on the market today, and for good reason. Follow these step by step instructions on how to belay with a GriGri, including giving slack quickly. Mar 15, 2016 · Introduction American climbers currently learn to belay from professional climbing instructors and guides, from formal and informal mentors, and an increasing number learn to climb in indoor/artificial climbing structures and facilities. 1. The Universal Belay Program was developed by the American Alpine Club to help standardize belay practices and principles. Learn the gear, techniques, and steps needed to pass your gym's belay test. Be a better belayer. After passing the test, you’re ready to climb. Multi-pitch trad climbing skills. Sure, it’s ideal to be at the same weight or even heavier than your belay partner, but sometimes you’re faced with a situation where you end up being the lighter person in the tandem. Uses: - Belaying without a belay device - Abseiling without a belay device - Creating a releasable knot when escaping the belay The munter hitch tends to 'kink' the rope when used for abseiling or belaying. Mar 17, 2014 · The belay technique is very close to the generic technique, but has a few specifics. Learning proper belaying techniques will make you a trustworthy rock climbing partner. You should belay from the top of the route when the anchor is in a poor position to lower from or abseil, or to walk off. In its simplest form, a belay consists of a rope that runs from a climber to another person (the belayer) who can stop the climber's fall. Is it possible to belay someone heavier When you're attached to the anchor, you'll need to choose a method to belay your partner. Feb 6, 2019 · "On belay" is a climbing voice command used by climbers at the base of a route as well as at the beginning and end of a pitch higher up the cliff. The belay escape is a technique whereby the belayer frees themselves from the responsibilities of belaying. And that locks the belay device preventing rope from feeding in the opposite direction. The belayer wears the harness and attaches the belay device to it using the carabiner. Interested in joining our awesome team? Check here for current openings in roles like virtual assistants, accounting services, and more. They will instruct you in how to safely use the auto belay device in their specific setup. Load the rope into your belay device at this point. Jun 21, 2023 · Assuming the rope is already anchored to the top, your climber will simply take one end of the rope and tie it to his harness using a double figure 8 knot. Aug 24, 2016 · Direct belay around rock Running the rope directly around a solid anchor, normally a rock spike or block which must be bombproof and shaped appropriately to hold the rope without it slipping off or riding up. Next, grip the climber Jan 9, 2024 · We'll explore "How to Belay: The Ultimate Guide to Belaying" in this extensive guide, with a particular emphasis on the tube-style device. Load your belay device. Oct 4, 2024 · They are my standard belay device for single pitch climbing, but I always need to check the system each time, and hang onto the brake rope. Let’s learn more! Complete Guide to Top Rope Belaying - Tips & Common mistakes. Here are some tips to keep your climbing partners alive. The belay certification test, must be requested at the front desk immediately upon arriving at the VR facility and completed before belaying Mar 26, 2020 · There are some circumstances where belaying a rappeller is a good choice. Belaying with the GRIGRI The belay technique to be used is very similar to the generic belay technique, but has a few specifics. While there is general competence with belay related skills Aug 28, 2021 · My belay device of choice for multi-pitch climbing is the ATC Guide, for its lightness, simplicity, and versatility. Dec 15, 2020 · About to take the belay test at the gym but not sure where to start? Relax. Nov 2, 2021 · A belay device is like a little pulley made of aluminium or alloy that allows your partner to add quick, sudden tension to the rope by locking off the rope so that if you fall, you won’t go far (Image credit: Cavan Images) The word belaying originates from an old nautical term meaning to stop or desist from. How does it work? How is the rope inserted? How do brake hand and guide hand work together for taking up or p Step 2: Belay safety check and belay commands The same as belaying with an ATC, it is crucial to check that the climber and belayer are correctly attached to the belay system. Belaying is a critical part of climbing safety. Jul 18, 2024 · Learn all about how the new NEOX belay device works in this brief video. There are different types of belay devices and the belay technique may be slightly different for each one. During the test, a Vertex staff member will verify that you know how to how to tie in and properly belay and lower your partner. Jun 1, 2021 · We’ll discuss whether rock climbing solo is safe or not, some common solo climbing activities, and how to find climbing partners. While belaying may seem straightforward, there are a lot of ways a belayer can make a climber feel safe and secure Sep 20, 2024 · Learn the essentials of belay techniques, safety precautions, and climbing etiquette to ensure a fun and secure climbing experience. Climbing Nomads How to bottom rope belay in a safe and efficient way is a vital skill for any climber. Sep 27, 2025 · Master climbing how to belay safely! Our guide covers essential gear, techniques & safety checks for beginners. Here’s how to belay your leader. There are a variety of tubular belay device designs on the market today (i. In this article, we will delve into the world of belay techniques All climbers requesting to belay in the Vertical Rock facility must have prior climbing experience and successfully pass the VR belay safety test. There are three ways to belay from above: Off the harness Through a redirect Off the anchor itself Belaying off the anchor is almost always the best option. Situations when you may need to escape the belay include: - If your partner needs hauling through a crux while following - If you need to descend to your partner to give immediate first aid - If your partner falls and is May 9, 2025 · How to Belay Two Followers: Split Rope Technique As an ice climbing guide, I often use a split rope technique for belaying two followers (primarily to keep two climbers climbing simultaneously far enough away from each other to avoid being hit by ice). The live end of the rope should be nearer to you, while the dead end will be further away. 00:00 Introduction01:18 Preparation07:11 Belaying13:52 Most Common Mistakes Camera & Assist Belaying is an integral part of top-rope climbing inside and outside the gym. The earliest versions were used in the 60’s, though the inventor is unknown. In order to belay in the VR facility, you must be 13 years or older or receive approval from VR management. Oct 15, 2021 · A rock climber relies on a reliable belayer to keep them safe on a crag. The Figure 8, also known as an 8 ring, is one of the simplest rappel devices, and has been around for a long time. Keep reading to learn about belay devices and how to pick the right one based on your climbing experience and the style of climbing you enjoy. Complete Guide to Lead Belaying From basics to nerdy tips & tricks. Apr 28, 2025 · Learn the safest methods for toprope belaying. Belaying a heavier climber is always tough. Mar 21, 2024 · Getting your belay certification is an exciting step on your rock climbing journey. By always practicing proper techniques, using the right gear, and staying aware when belaying a much heavier climber, you’ll avoid any injuries. This fundamental skill is necessary for many rescue situations. comQuick and easy tips from BeAlive in 45!How do you tie the belaying know again? We're sure you've done this before at your local rock clim Get the inside scoop on remote working from experts in the field on leadership and management about how best to manage your company's virtual team. Magazine, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Atlanta Business Chronicle, and FlexJobs have recognized BELAY as one of the best places to work. How you do this depends Jan 16, 2020 · Ready to take your belay certification test at your gym? Sweet! Know the 4 essential belay skills and nail your belay certification test on your first try! Jan 31, 2021 · All climbers should strive to improve their belaying , which means learning and practicing the subtleties that make a truly great belayer. How to Belay Using the NEOX Alex Megos and Michaela Kiersch explain how the NEOX functions and share a few tips for users. Learn the essential techniques and steps for belaying in rock climbing. Needless to say, the climber stopped climbing for quite a while. Although there are numerous belay methods and myriad belay devices, there are some universal principles that a "good" belay should always adhere to. The classic figure-8 belay device is approved for rappel, and many climbers believe it's more suited to that than belay. Belaying is a foundational skill that climbing classes teach early on and instruction from a qualified teacher is essential. So it requires a little time to adapt to. Sep 23, 2024 · Earn your belay certification to elevate your climbing skills. I took a leap and decided to accept. It is likely your belay device will already be attached if someone else set the top-rope route beforehand, but if not, as the belayer, take a bight from the other end of the rope and insert it into the belay device. The end of the rope which passes through the top-rope anchor and goes back down to the climber is called the "live" end of the rope. You can do a redirected or indirect belay with an aperture belay device or a self-braking belay device. If you're new to rock climbing, this will lay the foundation for future belaying skills. The difference with lead belaying is that rather than pulling slack out of Feb 25, 2015 · Untie the first overhand backup and mule knot from the belay setup on the harness, and slowly transfer the load to the tie-off loop using the belay device. Also communicate clearly when the belayer is ready for the climber to climb. I started working as a contractor for Belay doing virtual assistant work in early February 2023. Dec 14, 2017 · If you've never used an auto belay before, you should alert the climbing wall staff that you have not been trained in the proper use of an auto belay. We give a few tips for effective belaying, assembling Belaying is a critical skill that every climber has to learn early on. . Learn to belay a lead climber, including how it differs from top-rope belaying. Lead Belaying: These articles explain everything you need to know to safely climb at any indoor wall. The rope, which is connected to the climber, is threaded through the belay device. We use this technique at our indoor climbing wall and at our challenge course. Here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of using each of these belay devices: Mar 16, 2022 · Discover how to belay with this simple introductory guide outlining all the elements to consider. How does it work? How is the rope inserted? How do brake hand and guide hand work together for taking up or paying out rop Dec 26, 2021 · How to belay: belay devices There are two main types of belay device, manual braking devices and assisted braking devices and it's worth knowing how to belay with both. With this method, the belayer keeps the belay device attached to their harness as if it were a standard top rope belay. Read on to get started. more At 3:02 we review how to tie a Figure 8 and then the Figure 8 follow Through. The Petzl GriGri is an assisted-braking belay device. Sounds too good to be true, right? We know — that’s why places like Inc. How to pass a belay certification? You can pass … Jun 30, 2023 · You have to know how to top rope and lead belay if you want to keep yourself and your partner safe while rock climbing. Once your partner has tied in, grab the rope such that there’s 5 to 10 feet of slack between you and your leader. This is an imperative skill if you need to descend to your partner and provide first aid or other forms of assistance. This article covers how to belay with an ATC. We'll cover how to set up your belay device and perform a standard top rope belay. Learn to lead climb, top rope and lead belay safely. Learn how to choose a belay device for rock climbing. Become a confident belayer. I first saw the dangers of belaying a heavier climber back when I started rock climbing in college. There is often a lot of Feb 22, 2020 · Belaying is an often overlooked, but essential skill to safe climbing, we share how to belay when climbing safely for top roping and lead climbing. It can also cause slight abrasion to the rope's sheath, especially if the leader falls. In climbing, it refers to controlling the rope while your partner climbs, so you can Guide Mode is an auto-locking belay technique for climbing. In the modern day, most climbers use a variety of gear to belay, notably Communicating clearly when climbing is important for safety: Learn the usage of climbing commands such as belay on, up rope and others. (This article describes rappel with a tubular belay device. Rock gyms don’t require belay tests to trick or scare you away. Jan 31, 2021 · All climbers should strive to improve their belaying , which means learning and practicing the subtleties that make a truly great belayer. Climbers often get lazy with belaying once they have learnt the basics. When belaying, safety is your top priority. It involves a system of ropes, harnesses, and belay devices that allow one… How to top-rope belay The most common technique for top-rope belaying is called the “PBUS” method. Setting up the Belay Device The belayer’s strand of rope is threaded through the belay device according to the manufacturer’s specifications and attached to the belayer’s belay loop on their harness using a locked carabiner. As with top roping, the climber’s strand should exit the device from the hole Oct 16, 2023 · Why use belay commands? As soon as the belayer receives a command like “take”, “slack” or “clipping” he will know what to do, whether to create tension in the rope, give some more slack, keep a sharp eye on the climber or expect a fall. Includes the pros and cons of tubular, assisted braking and Figure 8 devices. Learn all about belaying and get AAC Belay Certified with Stone Adventures! Learn how to safely secure climbers with our Movement Belay Certification Test. Feb 9, 2020 · How to belay properly is the most essential skill in climbing, because catching a fall well hinges entirely on the belayer. This article covers the basics of top-rope belaying, but is not meant to replace hands-on learning. These techniques involve the proper use of ropes, harnesses, and belay devices to ensure that a falling climber can be safely caught and lowered to the ground. Jun 19, 2023 · Discover the basic principles of belaying, and how they can be applied to top-rope belaying and to skilled lead belaying—including catching lead falls. Wear a helmet to protect your noggin, especially if there is loose rock or ice. Belaying is an essential skill in the world of climbing, serving as the cornerstone of climber safety. It is the basis for a relationship of absolute trust between climber and belayer, because the belayer, literally, holds the climber’s life in their hands. This article covers everything from setup to lowering the climber, so it's perfect for beginners and experienced climbers alike. Learn how to belay a follower from above on a trad climb or multi-pitch sport route. The climber fell almost the entire height of the rock wall before the belayer caught her. ” First, load the rope through your belay device such that the strand leading to the climber extends from the opening closest to your body, and the spare end of the rope extends from the other opening, nearer to the wall. PBUS stands for “Pull, Brake, Under, Slide. It is lightweight, durable, and relatively safe compared to earlier designed devices like the figure eight. Often, the solution is to go alone, rehearsing the key pitches by solo toproping. Belaying with an ATC involves knowing how to: Set up the ATC belay device Belay … Dec 15, 2021 · The Redirected Belay Any standard belay device can be used to belay from above by placing a redirect on the climbing anchor. How to use belay in a sentence. The good news? BELAY is currently hiring — and all roles are completely remote. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step process to ensure safe and effective rope management, allowing climbers to support their partners while minimizing risks. What’s a Belay Device? A belay device is climbing equipment that gives a belay to a climber. We’ll be demonstrating the PBUS method of belaying. Belay devices use friction created by a bend in the rope to catch falls and lower climbers. Here are some … Jan 20, 2014 · When Tommy Caldwell or Mayan Smith-Gobat work a free climb high on El Capitan, the crux may be finding a belayer willing to put in days of duty in an isolated and exposed location. e. How To Lead Belay Once your rope is prepped, it’s time to get into the business. A series of short films produced exclusively for BMC TV in association with AMI http://gobealive. Learn how to give a good catch. Sep 26, 2025 · How to Belay Belaying itself is relatively simple provided one is always paying attention to your climbing partner. Three of the most common belaying methods are described below. Just sit back and enjoy the definitive guide on how to belay. In this video, Laurence Reading from Mountain Trips demonstrates the proper technique and equipment necessary to belay. Take your belay game to the next level with the NEOX ® The NEOX® is an assisted blocking belay device for the gym and the crag. You simply insert the bight of your No description has been added to this video. Correct belaying methods allow a belayer to hold the entire weight of the climber with relatively little force and easily arrest falls. The bad news? We’ve recently seen job postings claiming to be from BELAY that aren’t affiliated Jul 19, 2022 · Wear belay gloves, especially with a heavier climber or skinnier rope or in wet or icy conditions, to protect against rope burns. Everything about the lead-climbing system is dynamic; from the ropes to falls, and your belaying should align. (For an overview of lead belaying, read, How to Belay a Lead Climber. Master essential belay techniques and get certified at your local climbing gym today. Sport Climbing Anchors. Learn how to belay. However, three main types of devices exist: tubular belay devices, assisted braking belay devices, and the figure 8. There are many different types of belay devices available, so it’s important to choose one that is compatible with your climbing style and the type of rope you’re using. It’ll allow you to venture beyond the auto-belays and boulder mats, form belaytionships, and challenge yourself in new ways. The "live" end is handled by the "guide" hand. In this REI Expert Advice video, we show you how to prepare to belay, per Knowing how to belay well can help keep your partner safe and inspire them to climb at their best. Prerequisites for Beginners: Belay Devices & Usage: • Complete Guide into Belay Devices - Differ Top Rope & Intro to The Grigri is an assisted braking belay device. Dec 16, 2022 · Instead, it’s figuring out which belay device is best amongst the myriad of belay devices on the market. Learn two of those situations, and a quick way to set it up. The technique described here is the only one that Petzl recommends. Whether you’re an active first ascensionist or just want to do some laps after work without a partner, solo toproping is a handy The ATC is a dynamic belay device. Black Diamond ATC, Petzl Verso, etc), but they require the same belay technique. Are there situations when other options can be useful? Feb 22, 2020 · Understanding auto belays can be a little unerving if you've not used one before, we cover how they work and how to use them safely. They are in place to ensure you know the safety procedures so you and those you climb with have an enjoyable and A belay device is a metal tube that you feed a climbing rope through, used with a screwgate carabiner, in order to belay a rock climber. Ideal for belaying a lead climber, the integrated wheel allows you to smoothly and quickly pay out slack. Finally, connect the rope to the anchor with a figure eight on a bight as a backup, leaving just enough slack to disassemble the belay, and disconnect the belay device from the system. Once you’ve mastered the art of top roping, it’s time to learn how to lead belay. Recently, I’ve been using it while guiding rock as well, as I’ve found it to be a useful technique to streamline my systems. It is a useful skill to know, but is not intended for long-term use. Tube style and Assisted Braking devices are both acceptable for top rope belay at LCC Jun 26, 2023 · The basic equipment needed for belaying includes a climbing harness, a belay device, a locking carabiner, and a climbing rope. Climbers spend half of their time belaying—make sure you know all of the nuanced tips on how to belay in every situation. ) Most mechanical belay devices are more suitable for belay than rappel. Before you tie in or set The belay test is our way of making sure that every climber has the skills and knowledge to safely support climbers at Vertex. iujuv p9vceao fkns te0yj ceeml pz tuct sr7vt ijk tqdv