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Squamish Smoke Bluffs

6:1 participant to guide ratio.

Join Dirtbabe Collective x Kinley Aitken Guiding for a 4-day course to learn the fundamentals of lead-climbing on (trad) gear with a focus on nervous system regulation!

This workshop breaks down the extensive technical knowledge of trad climbing into digestible chunks, followed by experiential exercises to assist in the integration process. Throughout the process, information, tools and practices supporting regulation of the nervous system will be offered. This will assist anyone who experiences fear or nervousness in their mind or body while they climb!

Sarah Steele Johnston; Co-founder of Dirtbabe Collective and Registered Clinical Counsellor is excited to facilitate an outdoor workshop that combines her 14-years experience climbing with her master’s research on how fear and anxiety can be addressed through intentionally supporting the nervous system during the process of climbing.

Who is this clinic for?

This clinic is for any gendered person (meeting necessary prerequisites) interested in learning the principles of leading trad with a focus on supporting and calming the nervous system.

Learning outcomes:

• How to clean and place trad gear with a focus on principles of gear placements, equipment strengths and limitations, and how to test (and trust) your gear!

• How to build trad anchors (unidirectional gear anchors)

• How to choose a rack and rack your harness

• Mock trad leading (potential to lead a route independently, dependent on comfort and ability)

• Lead climbing strategy

• Fall hazard mitigation strategies

• Trad climbing lingo

• Practice and receive guidance on crack climbing technique. 

• Theory of nervous system regulation as applied to climbing 

• Personal and partner practices to support nervous system regulation

• Connect with other climbers interested in trad climbing and nervous system regulation.

• Experience lead belaying (minimum of two years - indoors or outdoors).

• Experience climbing outside, 5.8 and above (minimum two years).

• Strongly recommend being comfortable top-roping on granite cracks 5.8 and up.

• Basic crack climbing knowledge and experience .

• Experience leading is helpful but not required.

• Harness, helmet and shoes (can arrange rentals if needed).

• Bring your own rack if you have it! (not required)

Review Booking Policy and Waiver here.