Indoor Climbing: Ground Course 2

2.5 hr
Step-by-step lead climbing
Practice safe clipping & belaying
3 × 2.5 hours of training

Season:

All year
3 x 2.5 hours

Key info

Our guides speak German & English
3 sessions of 2.5 hours each
Advanced course focusing on lead climbing
Clipping, dynamic belaying, and fall training
Equipment included

Overview

Recommended for: Anyone looking to spend time outside and unplug as a group.

The next step in climbing: Learn lead climbing and conquer the wall with new techniques and safety.

This course takes you a step further: Learn to climb safely in lead. You will practice clipping, efficient movements, and proper fall handling. After three sessions, you will have the knowledge to lead climb independently with more safety and with confidence in the rope.

Course details

Academy

Learning objectives

  • Independent lead climbing in the gym
  • Lead belaying techniques & dynamic belaying
  • Fall training and building trust
  • Risk assessment in sport climbing
  • Knowledge of equipment and routes

Course curriculum

Introduction to the specifics of lead climbing and a refresher on safety topics beyond top rope, including equipment and gear knowledge.

T1
Lead Climbing Rules and Equipment

Learn the rules for lead climbing in the gym, as well as additional equipment (quickdraws, rope management).

Key points:
  • Clip quickdraws in the correct order
  • Clip only from a stable position
  • Pay attention to rope path: no rope behind leg/foot
  • Avoid pendulum and ground falls
  • Only one rope in the anchor carabiner
Techniques:
Correct clipping without backclippingManage rope slack
T2
Equipment Knowledge & Preparation

Overview of the necessary climbing hardware and planning a safe lead climb.

Key points:
  • Know different belay devices (tube vs. assisted braking)
  • Assess rope length and route
  • Use chalk & belay glasses effectively
Techniques:
Set up belay station correctlyPartner check for lead climbing

Learn practical skills for climbing a route in lead, focusing on clipping technique, movement sequences, and mental aspects.

T1
Clipping and Climbing Technique in Lead Climbing

Practice continuous lead climbing of a gym route and correct clipping of quickdraws.

Key points:
  • Clip at hip height, don't overreach
  • Clip only from a secure position
  • Leave insecure positions, reposition
  • Rope must run freely in the quickdraw carabiner
Techniques:
Clipping with right/left handGrasp quickdraw when far awayRope managementDynamic & tactical climbing
T2
Mental Safety & Fall Prevention

Build mental strength and conscious risk management in lead climbing.

Key points:
  • Focus on movement instead of height
  • Recognize insecure moves
  • Quickdraws
Techniques:
Lead climbing in comfort zoneDownclimbingIdentify cruxes

Deepening belaying techniques for lead climbers including dynamic belaying and gradual introduction to safe falling and fall catching indoors.

T1
Lead Climbing Belaying Techniques

Correct belaying method for a lead climber to ensure both smooth climbing and safe fall protection.

Key points:
  • Give out rope in time
  • Belayer is active
  • Brake hand always stays on the rope
  • Catch falls softly
Techniques:
Rope handling with tube/assisted braking deviceDynamic belayingGround anchor for weight difference
T2
Fall Training

Guided practice of falling and fall catching to develop confidence and routine in emergency situations.

Key points:
  • Step-by-step training: small, then larger falls
  • Belayer actively moves, doesn't hold statically
  • Climber falls in control (no grabbing, bend knees)
Techniques:
Agree on fall signalBody position during fall

Assessment methods

Progress is continuously assessed by the course instructor: Participants are observed during their lead attempts and belaying tasks and receive immediate feedback.

The course instructor decides based on the demonstrated performance (including safely catching a fall in training) whether the participant has met the requirements. Thus, progress is measured by the reliable application of learned techniques in real climbing situations.

Certification

Certificate of Participation Indoor Lead Climbing

The certificate confirms that the climber has successfully completed Indoor Climbing Basic Courses 1 and 2 and thus has completed the basic indoor climbing training according to VSBK standards.

Issued by:
Outdoor Switzerland AG

Itinerary

Meeting points
Meeting point

Before the course begins, check in at the OUTDOOR Base in Interlaken and store your personal belongings in the locker room. Your instructor greets you in the ORBIT climbing gym and provides you with your equipment: climbing shoes, harness, and belay device. Then there's an introduction to the specifics of lead climbing.
Fundamentals of Lead Climbing: Technique & Safety

In lead climbing, you bring the rope up yourself and secure from one protection point to the next. This means more responsibility, but also more freedom. Your instructor shows you how to clip safely, minimize rope drag, and stay calm when between anchors.
Practical Training & First Climbing Attempts

You then put what you just learned into practice: climbing your first lead routes and belaying your partner. You will receive individual tips on rope management, clipping, and efficient movement. An important part of the course is fall training: where you learn how to fall safely and gain confidence in the rope.
Consolidation & Independent Training

With each session, you will become more confident in lead climbing. You will consolidate your training by repeatedly clipping and improving your technique, as well as pushing your limits on different routes. After the final course session, you will have the basics to lead climb independently.

What's included

Instruction by qualified climbing instructor
Climbing equipment
Shoes

Not included

Entry to ORBIT climbing hall

Entry not included (single entry, 11-pass, or season pass available at the counter)

What to bring

Sportswear
Water bottle

Meeting points

Meeting point
Activity location

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