THE SCIENCE OF ROCK CLIMBING

Tell me and I will forget, Show me and I may remember, Involve me and I will understand. – Chinese Proverb

The Science of Rock Climbing is an educational program designed to teach fundamentals of science and engineering in the context of real-world adventure based activities and is intended for young people (age 12-16). The focus is on the process with emphasis on understanding the application and usefulness of the science outside of the classroom in a practical but fun environment. If you're a fan of "Mythbusters" then you'll like this course.

Rock climbing is a dynamic sport that involves a delicate balance of physics, physical fitness, and mental awareness with a practical understanding of geometry, geography, and geology. At times it also requires a little trust; how do you know that those ropes and caribiners aren't going to break when you're hanging 50' off the ground? What do climbing equipment manufacturers do to make sure that the gear they sold you isn't going to break when you take your next 40' whipper?

Explore what goes into the design and testing of climbing gear by actually using and evaluating it while climbing at the local crag, and then investigating the science involved through live scenarios. We'll set up field-based lab tests and look at things like the friction of climbing shoes, forces on anchors, the dynamics of falling, energy transfer through ropes and anchor systems, strength of climbing gear, and factors of safety. By the end of this course you'll be comfortable trusting your life with climbing equipment and will be able to explain to your friends all of the technical details.

You'll climb, rappel, belay, build anchors, get dirty, do some hiking, study science, do some math, read some maps, and learn some life skills such as:

Organization and Planning
Communication and Presentation
Self-Reliance
Personal Responsibility
Teamwork and Professionalism

Please contact mike@clideadv.com for pricing and availibility.

measuring fall forces	frayed rope after drop testing	preparing to drop Clyde onto a Screamer
jugging up fixed lines	building a trad anchor	will this anchor hold a fall?

Check out Clyde's Fall Videos:

Clyde Fall Test 1

Clyde Fall Test 2

Read about The Science of Rock Climbing in the Lake Placid News