Climbing – Scramble

Rock climbing can be a physically and mentally demanding sport, one that often tests a climber’s strength, endurance, agility, and balance along with his or her mental control. Knowledge of proper climbing techniques and the correct use of specialized climbing equipment is crucial for the safe completion of routes. For groups doing climbing sessions at the centre the responsibility of safeguarding each other, taking hold of the ropes and managing them, is as important as climbing themselves.

Because of the wide range and variety of rock formations around the world rock climbing has been separated into several different styles and sub-disciplines, including bouldering, indoor climbing, single pitch climbing outdoors and multi-pitch climbing.

Scrambling is generally hiking up steep terrain but involving the use of your hands. It covers the middle ground between walking and climbing and is graded from 1 to 3.

A classic grade 1 scramble is essentially an exposed walking route, whereas grade 3 scrambling might appear in climbing guides as ‘moderately’ graded climbing routes and use rope for some sections.

There is a popular misconception that scrambling is the less dangerous version of rock climbing but in fact it can be more so, particularly in the higher grades, as people attempt it with less protection or assistance.

Wether you are familiar with climbing – scrambling or not, it is never too late for new experiences and adventures!