Alpkids on the Bloc

Children love to climb. There is little fear and the cry of "look at me!" can often bring a shock to on-looking parents when they see their child somewhere they really shouldn't be.

Alpkids on the Blocs at Cliffhanger in Sheffield.

Alpkids on the Blocs is our fun bouldering format first seen as part of the Cliffhanger Festival in 2009. It is aimed at children under 8 years old and their parents.

What is bouldering?

Bouldering is simply climbing on small boulders, or blocs. Ropes are not needed and some say it is the ultimate expression of climbing. Don't worry if you have not tried climbing before; our blocs are no more than 8ft high and there will be some expert guidance to show you how to climb smoothly and safely together, who knows we could nurture the next generation of mini mountaineers!

How Alpkids on the Blocs works

We will be running sessions, each one lasting 40 - 45 minutes during the day with the number of children in each session limited to maximise their enjoyment as well as ensuring their safety.

Each child must be accompanied by their parent for the duration of the session. Although they will not actually climb they will be encouraged to be fully involved in the session.

A typical session will involve a warm up, a safety briefing which will include an introduction to the equipment used. There will then be several fun bouldering activities and a few set routes to try.

Why visit Alpkids on the Blocs?

Our aim is to provide a fun and interesting introduction to bouldering. Children and their parents will learn bouldering techniques such as 'spotting' and use specialist equipment such as 'bouldering mats' and 'chalk bags'. The climbs will be challenging and will make children think how to climb them, but all the holds will be large so as not to put excess strain on a child's body. No special footwear or equipment is needed to take part but close fitting clothing is recommended.

Timetable

To take part all you have to do is turn up on the day. Please visit the Alpkit wall in Hall 9 during the day to sign up for a session. (Times may change).

  • 10.30 - 11.15
  • 11.30 - 12.15
  • 12.30 - 13.15
  • 13.30 - 14.15
  • 14.30 - 15.15
  • 15.30 - 16.15
  • 16.30 - 17.15

Alpkids on the Blocs photo archive

Cliffhanger 2009

Just like any other sport bouldering has it's own world of funny words and terminologies. Don't worry if you don't know any.. you will by the end of the show! Here are just a few so you can sound like a pro on the day..

Bloc
French for boulder or large rock. There are no natural blocs in Birmingham so we have had to build our own!
Holds
These are what you climb on. There is a huge variety of shapes and sizes available to make your climbs fun and interesting.
Route or Problem
This is the sequence of holds you follow. On man made blocs these routes are often marked by similar coloured holds or marked with coloured tape or numbers.
Boulder mat or Crash Pad
A portable foam mattress that a climber places under his route.
Spotter
A trustworthy friend who will stand behind the climber as he tries his route. The job of the spotter is to point out hidden holds and to make sure that the climber lands safely on his boulder mat.
Chalk bag
Fine chalk dust is used to dry the climbers hand when they start to sweat. This is often carried in a small bag tied around the climbers waist. Chalk is also available in a compact ball.
Rock shoes
Specialised shoes with a sticky rubber sole. These shoes will help you stand on small or sloping foot holds.
Pad people
A group of climbers carrying boulder mats.
Tooth brush
Normally used for cleaning your teeth, but climbers have also found that they are very effective at cleaning chalk and dust from small grips.
Flash
This is when you climb your route first time without practice. It is a great feeling and shows you are at the top of your game wink

Alpkid T Shirts

We also have a small range of kids t-shirts and hoodies. They are available online.

Climbing Games

Ideas and suggestions for making your climbing sessions more fun. Available online.

Hooked? Find out more..

If you would like to find out how to get more involved in climbing look no further than the BMC's website.

UptoSummit

Up to Summit offer courses in the Peak district and North Wales, whether you are wanting to go out bouldering, lead climbing, multi pitch climbing or need coaching courses.

Daring Deeds

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