New from DK is a combined book and DVD put together by guide Nigel Shepherd and covering the basics from equipment through to climbing techniques.
Just published by DK is Go Climb, a basic climbing
instruction book with a difference; it comes with an integrated
instructional DVD that links in with the book.
It's
been put together by Nigel Shepherd, a fully qualified guide
who was previously head instructor at Plas Y Brenin, the Welsh
National Mountain Centre, so you know that the basics are right.
We'd always suggest that you get qualified instruction if you're
thinking of taking up climbing because so much of it is about learning
skills in a practical way, but Go Climb take things on a level compared to
a book.
Book and DVD
The DVD footage means that you can watch knots being tied, see how climbers
move on the rock and observe sequences of actions - lowering off a
sport climb for example - again and again until they make sense. You
can choose to watch by chapter, by section of chapter or just watch
all the way through.
It makes most sense to watch in sections then use the page symbols
on the screen to relate them to the book, though you can also use the
DVD as a stand-alone experience.
Like we said, the information's all good and the DVD features
normal-looking people doing eminently feasible climbs rather than
rock superstars dyno-ing up impossible overhangs, so it's informative
and nicely shot rather than exciting and inspirational.
The book is a thoroughly illustrated guide to the basics of
climbing with lots of clear photographs and simple, well-presented
information though the introductory chapters are a bit busy.
Verdict
We wouldn't advocate relying on Go Climb as your sole source of
climbing instruction, but if you're just getting into climbing and
maybe about to do a course or join a club, it'll kickstart your basic
knowledge of the sport.
Similarly, if you're a tad rusty and need a quick refresher, it's
a good way of recapping on basic climbing techniques and principles.
Best of all, while it originally retailed for £9.99, it's now
just £7.49 including delivery direct from the DK web site at
www.dk.com
where you can also view a trailer and sample pages from the
book.
