6 Tips to Improve Your Belaytionship

From the seasoned chimney wriggler to the gumby gumbie, the relationship between a climber and their belayer is an essential part of safe (or not) climbing. That special bond, or “belaytionship” as we lovingly call it in the climbing world can have a big impact on your wall performance. We discuss six key strategies that help to achieve this important relationship.

1. Communicate Clearly

Successful partnerships are built on effective communication. Talk about your plans and hand signals for when you are scaling the rock face. See to it that your belayer and climber know what will happen during the climb, plus develop a system for calling out climbing-related commands like “climbing,” “take” or “lowering.”

2. Practice Together

Practice is the best way to build belay skills. To get used to your partner’s pace and stoke, spend some time climbing together at a gym or on the rock to feel it out. The easier you learn to move together, the better your scrambles will go and it quite naturally fosters a mutual understanding that supplements all parties experience.

3. Focus on Trust

Belaytionship: A burdge a new kind of relationship where trust is non-negotiable, as your partner holds the ropes while you conquer heights. A climber has to be able trust the person on belay - that they can catch them and it will be a safe fall ; while at the same time, knowing their leader have faith in what information is needed. Trust will be formed by proving that you are competent on an ongoing basis, and showing care for one another.

4. Know The Styles Of Each Other

Each climber and belayer has his or her own style, rhythm…and a partner. Learn how your partner climbs and where they might have weak points in their belaying technique. This common understanding will allow you to prepare for and make the necessary adjustments.

5. Be Attentive

Belaying is a task that demands your entire focus — do not get distracted and lose it. Examine how the climber moves and be ready to move at a moment’s notice. Knowing how the climb works, allows you to give appropriate support.

6. Celebrate Accomplishments As A Team

Once you’re all climbed out of a couple routes, take stock. Acknowledging success together can strengthen the emotional bond of your belaytionship — that includes being happy for each other when topping out or trying new things. Understanding begets motivation and enhances your bond.

Combing through these 6 tips, you can make the most of your next climbing trip and establish a strong belaytionship with your partner for life!