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Climbing, Adventure & Outdoor Skills

Practical advice, inspiration and expert knowledge from Up & Under Adventures.

From your first steps into climbing to improving your technique, heading outdoors for the first time, learning new skills or planning your next adventure, our instructors and coaches share practical advice to help you get more from every experience.

Explore, Learn & Get More From Your Adventures

Whether you're new to climbing, looking to improve your movement, preparing to head outdoors or simply curious about the world of adventure, our blog is here to help.

Written by the experienced instructors and coaches at Up & Under Adventures, our articles cover indoor and outdoor climbing, climbing coaching, navigation, outdoor skills, equipment and adventure experiences.

You'll find practical tips, honest advice and useful information designed to help you climb with more confidence, make informed decisions about your equipment and get the most from your time outdoors.

Find Your Next Adventure

Our articles are designed to support you at every stage of your journey. Explore our latest advice, discover new places to climb and learn more about the skills that can help you enjoy the outdoors safely and confidently.

Looking for hands-on experience? Explore our climbing courses, outdoor climbing experiences, coaching and navigation courses to put your new knowledge into practice.

What Is a Navigation Course? A Beginner’s Guide

What is a navigation course? A navigation course is a practical outdoor training experience that teaches you how to find your way using a map, compass, and natural features. It helps build the skills and confidence needed to navigate safely in the countryside, mountains, and remote environments without relying on GPS. Key things to know about navigation courses Designed for beginners and those looking to improve skills Focus on map reading and compass use Takes place in real

Rob McGrady

Apr 241 min read

What Is Outdoor Bouldering? A Beginner’s Guide

What is outdoor bouldering? Outdoor bouldering is a form of rock climbing done on natural rock formations without ropes, typically at lower heights. Climbers use bouldering mats for protection and focus on short, technical routes that require strength, balance, and problem-solving skills rather than endurance or height. Key things to know about outdoor bouldering No ropes or harnesses are used. Climbs are shorter and typically closer to the ground. Bouldering mats are placed

Rob McGrady

Apr 231 min read

What is Abseiling? Abseiling for beginners.

What Is Abseiling? A Beginner’s Guide (Bristol & UK)

What is abseiling? Abseiling (also known as rappelling) is a controlled descent down a rock face or vertical surface using a rope, harness, and safety system. It is commonly used in climbing and outdoor adventure activities, allowing participants to safely lower themselves from heights under expert supervision. How does abseiling work? Abseiling works by using a rope system and a friction device that allows you to control your speed as you descend. A typical abseiling session

Rob McGrady

Apr 173 min read

What Is Rock Climbing? A Beginner’s Guide (Bristol & UK)

What is rock climbing? Rock climbing is an outdoor or indoor activity where participants climb natural rock faces or artificial walls using their hands, feet, and safety equipment such as ropes and harnesses. It can be done recreationally, for fitness, or as part of guided experiences with qualified instructors. How does rock climbing work? Rock climbing involves ascending a rock face using a combination of physical strength, balance, and technique, while being secured by saf

Rob McGrady

Apr 133 min read

🧭 Map & Compass vs GPS: What Should Outdoor Beginners Learn First?

If you’re new to hiking, backpacking, or camping, one of the first big questions you’ll face is this: map and compass vs GPS - which navigation method should I learn first? With so many outdoor navigation tools available today, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Short answer? You should learn both - but not at the same time, and not for the same reasons. Let’s break down what each option offers and which navigation skills beginners should focus on first. Candidate using map and c

Rob McGrady

Jan 143 min read

Candidates route planning on a Beginners Navigation Course.

What You’ll Learn on a Beginner Navigation Course

If you love the idea of exploring the outdoors with confidence but aren’t sure where to start, a beginner navigation course is the perfect first step. Whether you’re new to hiking or simply want to build essential outdoor skills, these courses are designed to help you feel comfortable finding your way in the countryside. So, what can you actually expect on the day? Here’s a breakdown of what a beginner navigation course typically involves. A Friendly Introduction to Navigatio

Rob McGrady

Jan 62 min read

Making the leap in to outdoor climbing.

Author: Rob (RCI, CWDI, CWI) Rob on 'One Less White Oliver' VS 4c, Shorn Cliff As the summer draws closer, most will notice that our beloved climbing gyms are becoming sparsely populated. Just the mere hint of sun and most of us will be out on our projects or to our favourite crags. We probably take it for granted that we can climb outdoors. But, I can guarantee that we all remember our first outdoor climbing experience. For some it was a school trip. For others, it was an ou

Rob McGrady

Apr 10, 20194 min read