Climbing is an adventure sport that requires physical strength and endurance as well as mental focus. To become an instructor, you will need to pass a few tests to demonstrate your ability and knowledge. Training modules and requirements differ depending on the type of certification and the association offering the course. However, there are a few basic instructor options -- belay, base managed climb, top managed climb and guide instructor certifications.
Climbing Site Belayer
The Professional Climbing Instructors Association offers a climbing site belayer certification program. A belayer supports an active climber through a system of harnesses and ropes, managing her safety while she is climbing. The belaying course is only one day and covers professional demeanor, knowledge of basic climbing gear, facility setup and ongoing inspection, climbing hold maintenance, risk management and delivering climbing instruction.
Base Managed Climbing Instruction
The majority of climbing involves base managed climbs, or climbs that begin from the bottom of a rock face. To qualify for this course, PCIA recommends you have two or three years of climbing experience and are a currently active climber. When you pass this course you should have a working knowledge of and an ability to inspect basic climbing gear, important climbing knots, harnesses and hitches. You will demonstrate proficiency in belaying skills, base managed climbing setup, rappels and multi-climb operation. This course is approximately 30 hours, which is usually spread out over three days.
Top Managed Climbing Instructor Certification
Climbs can begin from the ground, or the can start from the top of grade. If you are climbing over water, a top managed climb is necessary. To participate in this certification from PCIA, you must be 18, be certified in base-managed climbing, have the necessary equipment and the ability to climb 5.8 terrain on a top rope. Because it builds on the base managed climbing skills, this course is only 10 hours. You will learn rescue and assistance skills, such as escaping direct and indirect belays and raising systems, mechanical advantage systems and the difference between base and top climb management.
Other Certifications
If you want to combine your climbing knowledge with outdoor mountain guiding, the American Mountain Guides Association offers highly respected certification programs. Learn to be an alpine guide, rock guide, rock instructor as well as a climbing wall and single pitch climbing instructor.
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