NICAS Handbook
Preface
Every week thousands of people climb indoors and outdoors on purpose built artificial climbing walls in the UK. For many the climbing wall is their first introduction to the absorbing world of climbing. The ABCTT is concerned that high standards should be encouraged early on in a participant’s climbing career so that both safety and enjoyment can be practised to the full.
Climbing walls have become one of the principal training grounds for novice and advanced climbers alike and provide a great opportunity to develop some of the skills and knowledge relevant to the wider world of climbing. In particular they are excellent venues for the training of the safety chain principle, and the development of climbing technique, movement and fitness.
It is hoped that the National Indoor Climbing Achievement Scheme will provide the structure and motivation for new climbers to develop their skills in order that they may gain the most out of their climbing as well as having their achievements recognised. It is anticipated that most of the participants on this scheme will be under 18 years of age and the guidelines have therefore been written with minors in mind.
This handbook provides advice and guidance for Course Providers, Trainers and Assessors on how to deliver the scheme on artificial climbing walls. Venues will vary and so the design of the training and assessment courses will be the responsibility of each centre. This handbook therefore seeks to support the knowledge and skills of trainers and assessors without proscribing exact methods.