Continuing professional development: bouldering style

On Saturday (23/05/09) the first Outlook Bouldering CPD course was held at the Indy Climbing Wall in Menai Bridge. The day began with a brief introduction to progressive bouldering from Chris Davies, a member of Outlook's sales team (and also, not a bad boulderer!).

Dave Brown, who has a wealth of experience both as a technical advisor and a professional personal trainer, then warmed up the team of participants (ranging from interested local activists, freelance leaders and Outlook staff members). This involved some fantastic ways of building up core strength using tried and tested techniques ranging from basic yoga positions through to watching and emulating movement with the help of a dance tape (so, quite varied!).

With the professional knowledge provided by Dave (and the influence of the dance tape), it was pretty apparent that the team were starting to think very differently about the way that they climb and position themselves and were also thinking about how to move and run with this on the climbing wall. Once at the wall the hard work began, as is traditional at Outlook Expeditions, with tea and cake.

Once warmed up and primed for some serious bouldering, the team then went on to try out what they had learnt in theory on the wall itself. This saw every climber at the event pushing their own personal standards to a limit that they had never before thought achievable. With the coaching on hand from Chris and Dave, and the positive energy and feedback from the team, it was apparent that this was a great success.  Thanks to all who participated!