502 Team Belay—New Industry Standard for Climbing in PE

Friday, April 26, 2013: 8:45 AM-10:00 AM
Convention Center: 217BC
AAPAR/Council for Adventure and Outdoor Education/Recreation
Speakers: Matthew D. Cummiskey, West Chester University, West Chester, PA; and John G. Helion, West Chester University, West Chester, PA
School-based adventure programs should be moving away from traditional instructor or student belaying to team belays as this method is becoming the new industry standard. Team belays involve groups of 4-6 students acting as the “belayer” for one climber. This method is safer and results in higher activity time. Come learn about the two major team belay techniques, associated knots, and successful implementation strategies. This is a hands-on session where participants will practice each skill.