With the right ropes, knots and technique, you can climb that rope with relative ease using a technique called Prusiking. In Prusiking, you attach loops of climbing rope to the main rope with a Prusik knot. When weight bears on the knot, it grabs the main rope tightly. A Prusik knot, properly tied, can bear the full weight of a climber. To ascend, you alternately slide Prusik knots on two loops, one attached to the climber's seat harness, and the other for the climber's foot.
Step 1
Tie the ends together of a 6 to 8 foot length of the smaller rope using a double fisherman's knot to form a loop. Repeat this step with another equal length of rope. Ensure that the knots are secure.
Step 2
Hold one side of a loop in one hand with the fisherman's knot near that side. Place the other side of the loop behind the main line you will ascend.
Step 3
Pass the knotted side of the loop through the other side of the loop and around the main rope three times. Finally, pass the knotted side under the other side of the loop and pull the rope tight. Ensure that the loop rope does not overlap on the main rope. This forms a Prusik knot.
Step 4
Repeat steps 2 and 3 with the other loop. This completes the installation of the seat and foot loops on the main rope.
Step 5
Clip the upper seat loop to your seat harness with a carabiner. Place your foot in the foot loop. Pull the lower Prusik knot in the foot loop tight on the main rope and stand up on the foot loop.
Step 6
Slide the Prusik knot of the seat loop up as high as it will go on the main line. Pull the Prusik to tighten it and sit down in your harness so the seat loop takes your full weight.
Step 7
Bend your knee and move the Prusik knot on the foot loop up the main line. Tighten the Prusik knot and stand up on the foot loop.
Step 8
Execute steps 6 and 7, repeatedly, to ascend the main rope.
Tips and Warnings
- This is one of the simplest methods of Prusking. There are several variations on this technique, each with their advantages and disadvantages.
- Climbing of any kind is inherently dangerous. Use caution at all times. Ensure your knots and all climbing gear are secure and able to bear your weight before your ascent. If possible, have someone on top help you with a belaying rope for extra security.
Things You'll Need
- 2 6- to 8-foot lengths of small diameter climbing rope
- Larger diameter main rope
- Climbing harness
- Carabiner
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