Scrambling
2-day scrambling course on the Rydal trip, covering using ropes and moving as a group. In the first day we learnt how to use ropes, how to tie knots and different body positions to help other people. We did two small scrambles near Coniston Old Man and Yew Pike, though we didn’t finish the latter due to bad weather.
On the second day, we practised scrambling on Jack’s Rake.
The instructors were well organised, patient and experienced; although some participants thought there wasn’t enough practice during the 2 days, and that perhaps 2 days was too short.
Everyone got to try all the different positions — leading, being in the middle and being the last person. We did a couple of different scrambles, none of which were particularly challenging, which left plenty of time and energy to focus on things like doing knots right and repeating things we didn’t get the first time around.
“If you think climbing is difficult and dangerous, you will change your mind, with confidence.”
One participant suggested that participants with basic climbing experience would be better suited to the course if they wish to confidently lead after the second day.