We consider our belay tests a vital aspect of each facility’s overall safety. Never assume that you will automatically pass. Each customer must pass ALL parts of the belay test without practice, instruction, or error. Customers who do not demonstrate proficiency in all parts of the belay test will not be allowed to belay that day, but can still enjoy bouldering, climbing on the Auto Belays, or with climbers who are belay certified. A belay test may only happen one time a day, per customer.

Climbers who cannot pass the top-rope belay check are encouraged to consider taking our Intro to Rope Climbing Class.

• Harness: Climber must put on a harness correctly, according to the specifications of the harness manufacturer.
• Knot: Climber must confidently tie a figure-8 follow through knot with at least 6 inches of tail.
• Belay Device: Belayer must properly set up an approved brake assisted belay device according to device and harness manufacturers’ specifications.
• Belay: Belayer must demonstrate proficiency in top-rope belaying. The belayer’s brake hand must remain in constant control of the brake strand of the rope. Belayer must safely and immediately catch at least 1 simulated top-rope fall and lower safely while keeping the brake hand below the belay device.

• Harness: Climber must put on a harness correctly, according to the specifications of the harness manufacturer.
• Carabiners: Climber must clip-in both auto carabiners into their belay loop correctly.
• Routes: Climber must use the auto belays only on the routes assigned to that auto belay device.
• Age Restrictions: All Climbers must be 14 years and older in order to use the auto belays on their own.

• Harness: Climber must put on a harness correctly, according to the specifications of the harness manufacturer.
• Climber: Climber must demonstrate how to properly tie in to the tie-in point(s) on their harness using a figure-8 follow through knot with at least six inches of tail. Climber must confidently climb up the wall while correctly clipping each quickdraw in a controlled manner and take one announced fall and one unannounced fall.
• Belayer: Belayer must demonstrate how to flake a rope and properly set up an approved brake assisted belay device according to device and harness manufacturers’ specifications.
• Technique: Belayer must demonstrate effective lead belaying by taking in and paying out rope to the climber while in constant control of the brake strand of the rope. Belayer must stay at an appropriate angle and distance from the climbing wall and must catch one announced fall, one unannounced fall, and lower the climber.
• Checks: Climbers must provide a double-check that carabiners are locked and knots are properly tied and secured to harness and equipment.

• Do not drop weights
• No loose chalk
• Must be 14yrs. or older to use the fitness area.
• Please re-rack your weights and wipe down equipment after use
• Please wear appropriate exercise attire at all times. Proper athletic shoes are also required. No open-toed shoes, open-backed shoes, boots, sandals, or rock climbing shoes are allowed.
• Report all equipment malfunctions, personal injuries and specific concerns immediately to the Fitness Coordinator via email at Marcofranco@sessionclimbing.com.
• Please be courteous of your fellow gym users.

• All individuals entering the facility must watch the orientation video and fill out the waiver prior to using the facility.
• Before belaying, you must be certified by a Session staff member and display issued belay or lead tag on their harness while climbing.
• All belayers and climbers must utilize proper belay technique and DOUBLE CHECK their set up before beginning the climb. The belayer will check the climber’s gear and knots, and the climber will check the belayer’s gear and system and exchange confirmation that the setup is correct.
• Be respectful of other climbers. Allow space and time for others to climb. No shouting or distracting behavior while others are climbing.
• No food or drinks are allowed on the matted floors or bouldering areas.
• Wear appropriate attire, including closed-toe shoes when using climbing areas. Loose clothing and jewelry that can get caught are not allowed. Shirts must be worn at all times.
• No climbing shoes in the bathroom
• No running, jumping, gymnastic activities or engaging in rough play in the facility. Unruly conduct will be cause for removal from the gym.
• Do not swing on the ropes.
• Participants at Session must be at least 14 years of age in order to belay, lead, or use exercise equipment unless enrolled in a Session Program and approved by Session management.
• No pets allowed except service animals.
• All children under 14 years of age must be actively supervised at all times. Ensure they understand and follow safety rules. Guests age 11 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Climbing at Session or using any Session equipment while under the influence of drugs or alcohol is not permitted.
• Notify staff immediately of any accidents or injuries. Report any damages or concerns of climbing equipment to staff immediately.
• All climbers must wear appropriate gear while climbing. All participants must use the proper equipment. Equipment brought into Session shall be used at the sole and exclusive risk of the owner of such equipment.
• The use of vulgar language or improper conduct is not permitted.
• Session is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
• There is no climbing instruction, personal training, coaching, or commercial use of Session without specific authorization by a Session Manager. This includes teaching others how to belay.
• Do not boulder underneath roped climbers and do not climb with hands above the second clip. Roped climbers have the right of way on all walls.
• A climber’s voluntary participation in bouldering indicates their acknowledgment that bouldering is dangerous and that a spotter may not prevent injuries. Spotters understand that they may be injured by a falling boulderer. Avoid spotting without permission from climbers.