By Charlie Townsend, part one
Dreaming of fresh air, broad vistas, and scabby knuckles? Here are a few bits of advice to get you out on the crags.
1. Do some reading
I mean, read everything: the magazines, the how-to books, those hardcover tales of adventure, and even the online junk. Guidebooks are great bathroom reading, if you find the ones with lots of anecdotes and wry wit. Soon, you'll pick up the proper terminology (and lingo), and the reading will reinforce your hands-on experience.
2. Get some instruction
A climber's education is graded on a pass/fail basis, and partial credit is only awarded posthumously. Sure, your roommate or coworker could show you how it all works, but what they're really doing is practicing on you. Your early investment in a qualified guide is returned immediately in the form of accelerated learning and safer climbing decisions in the future.
3. Get a partner
You need somebody else out there with you – that's why ropes come with two ends instead of one. Look for a partner with more experience than you, more gear (and the knowledge to use it properly), and a better car. Age and gender are absolutely irrelevant, but a certain social compatibility is essential. Choose carefully; you'll be trusting him or her to double-check your tie-in and give you a decent belay.
4. Get some gear
Owning climbing shoes is a start, but you'll get invited along more often if you can supply your own harness, belay device, locking carabiner, and perhaps a chalk bag and a helmet. Maybe your partner says she'll lend you her old harness, but how come she's not still using it herself ?
5. Scope out local crags
Search online for local destinations, then go check them in person. Find out where you can park. How long is the approach? Is that poison ivy? Is this even legal? A rainy day spent at a crag with a guidebook can prevent wasting valuable hours finding the route when the sun is out.
