Home >> Hobbies >> Other Hobbies

How to Build a Ground Belay

Belaying ensures safety in rock climbing. This is the technique for securing the rope for a climber so that he is safe if he falls to avoid hitting the ground. The belayer is the person who is holding the rope. There are ways to build a a ground belay using natural elements. This can be rather simple to do but is essential to ensure safety in rope climbing.

Things You'll Need

Piton hammer
Rope
Foam padding
Climbing carabiner
Belay device

Instructions

- 1
  Create the ground anchor. Locate a large, stable boulder or rock. Tap the boulder or rock with a piton hammer to make sure it is solid. Avoid using loose rock formations for a natural belay because they are not stable. Wind the rope around the boulder at least twice to ensure it is steady. Make sure both ends come out on each side. Form a large loop in each end of the rope.
- 2
  Find a large tree if a boulder or rock is not available. Wind the rope two times around the trunk of the tree. Make sure the ends of the rope are loose on either side of the tree. Form a separate loop in each end of the rope.
- 3
  Position foam padding beneath the rope to prevent damage. Slide a carabiner through the two loops. Make sure the carabiner has a locking mechanism on it.
- 4
  Feed the climbing rope through the openings in the belay mechanism and make sure it comes out the other side. Insert the carabiner into the opening or hook in the belay mechanism and lock it. It is now ready to climb.

Other Hobbies