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General Climbing Discussion

Topic Date User

To fall or not to fall; that is the question. 31-May-2009 At 10:24:47 PM bert

Message

Sarah,

If you are not falling regularly while leading (sport climbing or climbing in the gym) then you are limiting yourself. The only way to explore your limits is failure. "The leader must not fall" ethic is for mountaineering, ice climbing, and geriatrics.

Falling on second is not comparable to falling on lead. You will be a better climber for having taken a lead all.

Learn how to place good gear if you don't already know. If your gear is good climb above it, commit, and be willing to take the fall. More often than not you will not fall. On the occasion that you fall it will not be a big deal, and you'll be psyched for having pushed it.

The Rock Warriors Way is a great book that focuses on the mental aspects of climbing - including the difference between the perceived and actual risks of falling.