1. Check your way down

Topping out on a highball problem then realising you have to downclimb it too is no way to enjoy climbing. By checking your downclimb, you’ll be able to avoid this nasty situation (Asking for help from the top is a little embarrassing to say the least!).

2. Check for glass

Some places (Hobson Moor Quarry is especially notable for this) are frequented by morons that break glass bottles against the rock face. Since I dynoed onto a patch of broken glass, I always check the holds by climbing the way down, and brushing any glass fragments away. This applies to other nasties – bird crap, cigarette butts, and other horrors to put your hands in always seem to occupy the holds you want to use on the way up.

3. Make sure your spotter is paying attention

Having a spotter is a good idea – especially if the problem leaves you exposed – however, if your spotter is looking the other way when you come off, then your fall won’t be helped, and you’re also in a good position to fall into them! A quick word to make sure they are watching is all that is needed, and it could easily prevent an embarrassing and painful fall.

4. Make sure you have a decent landing

I have spoken to a few people that have fallen onto a bad landing, with injuries ranging from a sprained ankle to full-on broken bones. A crash pad can help you out here (I personally use Alpkit’s Phudd), but if you don’t have one, finding a problem with a flat, rock free landing helps almost as much.

5. Stretch out

This makes sense for most physical activity; a quick stretch (not necessarily half an hour of yoga) can prevent cramp, increase blood flow and allow you to climb harder than just diving into the problem at hand. It also gives you an opportunity to consider the problem, and work out the moves before you start.