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Fall Smart – Falling & Catching Workshop

Duration: 2 hours
Participants: 6–12 climbers (aged 16+)
Pre-requisites: Lead belay certification at the centre

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Workshop Overview:

 

This workshop is designed to help climbers and belayers gain confidence in falling and catching falls safely. Whether you're hesitant to fall on lead or want to improve your belaying technique, this session will give you the tools and experience to manage falls with greater safety and confidence.

 

Goals:

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  • Reduce fear of falling through progressive exposure

  • Practice falling safely while protecting the body

  • Learn how to give a dynamic belay to reduce impact

  • Understand when and how to "take the fall" vs. "fight the pump"

  • Improve trust between climber and belayer

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Session Breakdown:

 

1. Welcome & Safety Briefing (15 mins)

  • Instructor intro & participant check-in

  • Discussion: Why falling is scary & common misconceptions

  • Safety gear check & warm-up

2. Falling Technique (30 mins)

  • Ground demo: how to fall (body position, relaxing, not grabbing gear)

  • Top-rope falling drills:

    • Short falls with spotter/coach

    • Gradual progression in fall height

  • Emphasis on: looking down, knees soft, arms relaxed

3. Catching Technique (30 mins)

  • Belayer body positioning

  • Dynamic belay: giving a soft catch

  • Drills:

    • Practice catching small falls

    • Lead catch with instructor supervision

    • Common belay mistakes (hard catches, too much slack, stepping backwards)

4. Lead Falls (30 mins)

  • Pre-climb checks and fall zones

  • Progressive lead falls:

    • Above bolt falls, small to moderate

    • Focus on climber breathing, relaxing

    • Belayer feedback and coaching

5. Wrap-up & Reflection (15 mins)

  • Q&A and feedback

  • Individual progress assessment

  • Tips for continued practice

  • Optional video review if available

 

What to Bring:

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  • Harness, climbing shoes, chalk

  • Belay device and helmet (helmets encouraged)

  • Comfortable clothes

  • Positive mindset

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Pricing

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The workshop costs £25 pp

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