I’ve been working with Mountaineering Scotland to deliver their new Ready to Rock courses.

On Sunday, Michael, Michael, Iain, Ali, Chris, Gonzalo along with Alan and myself met at a scorching  Traprain Law to cover the basics of trad climbing.

We looked at the

• Crag environment – environmental considerations and looking after yourself.
• Guide books and grades – indoor (French) vs British Traditional.
• Movement skills on rock compared with indoor climbing.
• Belaying skills for outdoor climbing.
• Tying into anchors.
• Placing rock protection.
• Building anchors.
• Placing gear on a route.
• Retreating off a route.
• Sport climbing lower-offs.

Oh, and we climbed some routes too!