Gym Lead Climbing: 5. Avoid Skipping Clips
Gym Lead Climbing • 50s
It is important to avoid “skipping clips”. Some leaders climbers might consider skipping clips because they are brash or overconfident. Other lead climbers might mistakenly skip a clip because they have tunnel vision, or were not paying attention to the route direction. Either way, skipping clips can lead to harmful consequences.
Regardless of skill level, it is important the lead climber maintains awareness of where quickdraws exist on the route, and to clip into each of piece of protection as they progress up the climb.
If a lead climber were to skip clipping the quickdraw, should that climber fall while clipping the NEXT clip, the leader will fall far beyond where originally intended. This significantly increases injury risks, for both leader and the belayer.
We hope you found this video helpful. Feel free to comment below with questions or thoughts!
Please remember, climbing is inherently dangerous. Climb at your own risk.
Up Next in Gym Lead Climbing
-
Gym Lead Climbing: 6. Avoid Z-Clipping
Avoid “Z-Clipping”!
“Z-clipping” can occur when clips are positioned close to one another.
The mistake happens when a climber has clipped into a quickdraw, and while reaching down to grab the rope for their next clip, they mistakenly grab the belay side of the rope already clipped and clip ...
-
Gym Lead Climbing: 7. Climbing Overhangs
Tips to consider when climbing overhangs:
1. Identify the sequences - Climbs are broken out into parts, each with their own unique sequences. Try to identify the crux sections before you start climbing. This helps you to be prepared for each one.
2. Find rest spots - This allows you to slo...
-
Gym Lead Climbing: 8. Danger Zones
“Danger Zones” a lead climber should consider when climbing:
1. The first three quickdraw clips are often the most dangerous section of the climb because of ground fall potential.
2. Identify crux moves as early as possible, so you are clipping from a better position or safer stance.
3. ...
