Top Rope Training / Learning to Place Trad Gear Been to the gym, wanna get out on the rock? Chances are there is a local bouldering and top roping area not far from home (and a whole lot closer than the nearest major crag). Nothing teaches climbing like the rock does and likewise for gear placements. Grab your partner and go explore! In addition to your shoes and harness, you need only a simple manual to understand the principles of a "yo-yo" belay (just like in the gym) and anchor systems plus a minimal selection of nuts, biners, anchor slings, and a short length of rope. The best place to start practicing nut and cam placement is with your feet on the ground. Take turns making placements, building multi point anchors and having your partner check your work. Discuss "what if" scenarios and how to do it differently or make it better. Try setting up an easy and straight forward top rope problem. Test your anchor (both climbers aggressively weighing the rope) and watch for shifting nuts, sharp edges and any obstructions in the landing zone. On Belay! Have fun and climb hard (til you melt of the holds) with the support of your vigilant partner's top rope belay. You'll get stronger, and more confident in your gear placements and anchor building skills.