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Product Copywriter
Oscar Sandeman
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A Beginner's Guide to Ice Climbing
Introduction
This guide to ice climbing highlights key aspects that you should consider before tackling the intense conditions found in winter climbing. Use it as a platform to be inspired or even start your own ice climbing adventure.
"Small time investments can make huge differences when you're on ice. A minute of faff sticking belay gloves and jacket on keeps the shivers away. I freeze up, and my climbing gets worse when I'm cold, so staying warm is a must. Also, try keeping snacks in your pocket for belays, and you won't go back." - Oscar, Product Copywriter
Ice climbing grades
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Ice climbing grades
That’s the scientific bit. However, like rock climbing in the summer, all grades can feel easy or hard depending on a range of conditions. The dark art is in understanding these conditions and choosing accordingly.
For me, how hard a route feels (not graded) can also depend on your stress level – which depends upon weather conditions, ice conditions, quality of belays, your fitness, experience and how much of the leading you do. It also depends on how good your technique is. Dragging yourself up 60 feet of ice by doing continual pull-ups will feel a lot harder than walking up with axes for balance.
In time you’ll gain the confidence to strike the balance between going slowly and placing lots of gear, and moving confidently between rest points and runner placements.
Essential kit for ice climbing
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Basic techniques for ice climbing
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How do you get involved?
Some people learn through clubs and friends who have more experience. Another option is to hire an MIC or Guide. By doing this you will find that you can learn from their experiences and have less of your own inevitable “miss-adventures”.
Glenmore Lodge offer a range of ‘Learn to Lead’ courses throughout the winter months. They have 2 day and 5 day options; or the option to tailor-make your own package with one of our Instructors.
Still need convincing?
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About Glenmore Lodge
Glenmore Lodge is Scotland’s National Outdoor Training Centre. They deliver training courses for beginners to performance level in climbing, mountaineering, paddlesports, mountain biking, backcountry skiing and First Aid.
The centre offers fully inclusive 2 & 5 day courses. They are based in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park, 10 minutes from Aviemore, 1 hour from Inverness Airport and 2 hours from Edinburgh Airport.
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