Recreational Tree Climbing in the Keene, NH or Brattleboro, VT area.

[Em]

Hi - I'm looking for training in the Keene, NH or Brattleboro VT area. How long does it take for the training generally, how much should I reasonably spend ? Do you take home any of the gear you use at the training ? or, do you get your own before going to the training ? And what kind of shape do you need to be in to begin ?

thanks, Em

[Moss]

There aren't any rec climbing trainers in the northeast unfortunately. The best you can do is find a rec climber or an arborist (or both) to take you climbing.

There are rec climbing teachers in Virginia, Ohio, Michigan, several in Georgia, Colorado and in Oregon. Check out http://www.treeclimbing.com for more info. http://www.newtribe.com has a good list and links to instructors also.

The training is 2 or 3 full days depending on the teacher. Class size is very small so you get good individual attention. Cost varies, check with individual instructors. Gear is provided. you don't take home any gear but will learn enough to be able to go out and get the gear you need to continue climbing. Peter Jenkins at TCI http://www.treeclimbing.com/ has created an excellent video that teaches the basics of recreational tree climbing. It's well worth it.

You don't need to be in great shape to learn to climb. If you have serious health problems you need to discuss with the instructor. The way it works is you get in shape by climbing. It doesn't hurt to have a regular stretching routine and some form of regular exercise before you start climbing. The techniques taught in rec climbing allow you to ascend at your own pace so you don't need to be made of muscle or a highly conditioned athlete to do it. You will get tremendous physical benefit by climbing regulalry. I'm a tree climbing facilitator (not an instructor) and have helped many people climb who are not particularly in good shape.
-moss

[Em]

Thank you for responding... I'll keep looking. I've asked all sorts of people about it, and so far, you're the only one that has responded. If I do find anything, I'll post it here.

thanks,
E