last longer than they will if constantly in a flexed position; and
the higher the climber can bring their feet up, working those
core muscles, the greater the distance they will travel upward
with each lock. Once the lock has been achieved with the feet,
the climber should "stand" up, as vertically as possible, and let
the tops of the hands advance the hitch up the ascent line.Then
re-grip the rope with hands and extended arms, lift the feet
high, and begin anew.
The secured footlock technique is an extremely efficient and
quick way to ascend into the canopy to begin work.Once practiced, it can make the commute to work smooth and elegant
rather than an ungainly chore.Yet, like any technique, it has
requirements and limitations; and the basic descriptions and
information included here should assist users in understanding
how to, and perhaps more importantly, how not to use this
valuable technique.
Michael "House"Tain is a contract climber, splicer, educator and
writer associated with North American Training Solutions
www.northamericantrainingsolutions.com and Arbor Canada
Training and Education www.arborcanada.com. He is currently
located in Lancaster, Ky., and can be reached via e-mail at
house@houseoftain.com.
www.arborage.com
A rope tool in action, footlock ascent on an endless loop.
Arbor Age / November/December 2013
17
