AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course

At the time of the course, candidates must:

• Be a Professional Member of the AMGA.

• Have a genuine interest in rock climbing and instructing novices on single pitch crags.

• Be at least 18 years old at the time of the course.

• Have at least 12 months prior climbing experience.

• Be an active climber with traditional lead climbing experience (leader placing pro).

• Have led a minimum of 15 traditional rock climbing routes (any grade).

• Be capable of comfortably climbing 5.8 while on a top rope.

CLICK HERE for a PDF of the Gear List

FOOTWEAR

• Approach or Hiking Shoes

• Rock Shoes

CLOTHING

• Synthetic/ Wool Sun Hoody

• Synthetic T-shirt

• Insulating Layer (weather dependent)

• Rain Jacket

• Shorts

• Climbing Pants

ACCESSORIES

• Belay / Rappel Gloves – Leather palms work best

• Backpack (25-35L capacity)

• Water Bottles (1.5-2 quart capacity)

• Sunglasses

• Extra Pair Contact Lens (if you wear them)

• Sunscreen & Lip Balm

• Insect Repellent

• Lunch and Snacks

• Camera

TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT

• Harness UIAA / CE Certified, fewer than 10 years old and in good condition

• Helmet UIAA / CE Certified, fewer than 10 years old and in good condition

• Standard tradition rack consisting of one full set cams and one full set stoppers

• 6-10 24” and 48” sewn slings with at least one 48”

• 10+ non-locking carabiners

• 3+ HMS or Pear-shaped locking carabiners

• 6+ locking carabiners

• Tube-style belay device such as Reverso or ATC

• Mechanical Assisted Braking Device such as GriGri or Lifeguard

• 2 3 foot pieces of 6mm accessory cord

• 2 18 foot pieces of 7mm accessory cord

• 50-60m single-rated dynamic rope suitable for leading and top rope climbing

• 20+m static rope 9-11mm in diameter

All gear will be inspected on the first morning of the course.

Make sure it is in good condition.

Mark all of your gear!

This is a three-day program that meets for 8 hours each day. The specific agenda varies from venue to venue. Please Reach Out for information.

• Expert Instruction: Learn from Paul Rachele, an IFMGA Mountain Guide with extensive experience in guiding and teaching. His deep knowledge ensures that you’re learning from one of the best in the industry.

• Comprehensive Preparation: This course is designed to thoroughly prepare you for the AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI) exam, providing you with the skills and knowledge needed to pass with confidence.

• Hands-On Experience: Develop your guiding skills through practical, real-world scenarios that mirror the challenges you’ll face in the field.

• Personalized Feedback: Benefit from one-on-one feedback and guidance from an expert, helping you refine your techniques and approach to become a more effective instructor.

• Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded climbers and aspiring guides, creating a network of peers and mentors that can support you throughout your guiding career.

• Career Advancement: Achieving your SPI certification opens doors to new guiding opportunities and this course is the first step towards certification.

• Build Confidence: Strengthen your confidence as a leader and instructor, enabling you to guide clients safely and effectively in single-pitch settings.

• Supportive Learning Environment: Experience a supportive and encouraging learning atmosphere where your growth and success are the top priorities.