Posts by Tracy Paino
Auto Belays: Pros and Cons
An auto belay is a mechanical device that is used in rock climbing to provide an effective and efficient way of lowering a climber to the ground after they have completed their climb. They eliminate the need for a climbing partner who belays the climber, belaying is manually controlling the rope to hold the climber…
Read MoreYou Might Be a Gumby If…
PART 2 Gumby (noun) guhm·bee | gu̇mbē An inexperienced, unknowledgeable, and/or oblivious climber; one who lacks coordination, common sense, or know-how. Experienced climbers can spot and cast contemptuous glances at Gumby climbers. However, we should not be too quick to disdain new climbers. They keep our sport alive, interesting, and exciting. Their sense of awe…
Read MoreYou Might Be a Gumby If…
Gumby (noun) guhm·bee | gu̇mbē An inexperienced, unknowledgeable, and/or oblivious climber; one who lacks coordination, common sense, or know-how. Gumby is an American clay animation character created and modeled by Art Clokey in the 1950s. He was the subject of a couple television series, a feature-length film, comic books, and other media. Since his first appearance,…
Read MoreStopper Knots
A stopper knot creates a fixed, thicker point on an otherwise uniform rope preventing the rope from slipping through a narrow hole or retaining device. In climbing a stopper knot helps keep the rope from slipping through the belay device. This protects a climber from potential injury in an extended fall or from potential ground…
Read MoreClimbing Terminology: More Basic Terms
Climbing is a unique sport and has created its own strange and wonderful vocabulary. Whether you are an experienced climber or just beginning, understanding what others are saying is important. Here are more terms that will have you sounding more like a “rock jock” in no time. 1. Traditional or “Trad” Climbing Traditional or “trad”…
Read MoreClimbing Terminology: A Primer
Climbing is an exciting and challenging sport that requires skill, strength, and endurance. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, understanding the terminology associated with climbing is essential. We will explore some of the most common climbing terms to help you communicate more effectively with other climbers and enhance your overall climbing experience.…
Read MoreDoes the Type of Landing Surface Matter?
PART 3 – What is the Best Landing Surface for Indoor Climbing Facilities? The best landing surface for an indoor climbing facility is dependent upon the needs, conditions, and type of usage. It should be able to absorb the shock of a climber’s fall and distribute the impact across a large surface area to reduce…
Read MoreDoes the Type of Landing Surface Matter?
PART 2 – Types of Landing Surfaces for Indoor Climbing Facilities The risk of falling is one of the inherent risks of climbing. Indoor climbing facilities strive to provide landing surfaces that help prevent or lessen the severity of ground impact injuries. In part 2, we will explore the different types of landing surfaces that…
Read MoreDoes the Type of Landing Surface Matter?
PART 1 – What does the Landing Surface in an Indoor Climbing Facility Do? Climbing is an exciting and rewarding sport that can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. However, whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, safety must always be your top priority. One of the most important safety considerations for indoor…
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