The BMC FUNdamentals of Climbing programme is expanding with a new group of coaches being brought online to deliver future workshops.

British team coach Dave Binney developed the FUNdamentals of Climbing workshop in 2001 and since then it has proved very popular with climbing coaches, especially those working in walls with young people. On 24 July Dave delivered a trainers day to seven established coaches to allow them to deliver future workshops. 

Those present were British team coaches Ian Dunn, Andy Earl, Gaz Parry and Katherine Schirrmacher. Scott Muir came down from Scotland for the day, and Eddie Cooper flew across from Ireland. The final coach attending was Steve McClure. Also present were Angela Carlin (the Mountaineering Council of Ireland Youth Development Officer), Steve Long (the Chief Officer of Mountain Leader Training UK) and Jon Garside from the BMC. 

The FUNdamentals workshop comprises both theoretical and practical elements, which is one of its strengths. Children participating in any sport are at risk of injury due to inappropriate training techniques and climbing is no different in this respect. Instilling good practice from the start lays a solid foundation for the future.

Much scientific research has been done on the developing child, the results of which have implications for the type of climbing activities that children participate in. The theoretical element of the FUNdamentals workshop looks at the findings of this research and provides coaches with information to help them in their work.

Different climbing styles use different muscle groups to a greater or lesser extent. The leg muscles are stronger than the arm muscles, and so best placed to push the climber up. The way in which body position and body awareness impact upon climbing efficiency forms the practical element of the workshop.

With a team of new coaches available, the BMC plan to deliver FUNdamentals workshops around the country as soon as possible. If you would like to either attend or host a workshop please contact Jon Garside.

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