Lead climbing is a type of climbing in which the climber ascends the route while continuously attaching the rope to the climbing protection as they go. The rope is not anchored to the top of the climb, and the climber is responsible for placing and clipping the rope into protection points along the route.
Lead climbing is a more advanced and challenging form of climbing than top roping, as it requires the climber to be responsible for their own protection and to make quick decisions about where to place the rope for maximum safety. It also requires a high level of technical skill and physical fitness, as the climber must be able to place and clip the rope accurately and efficiently while also managing their own movement on the route.
To lead climb, the climber typically starts at the bottom of the route and works their way up to the top, placing protection points as they go. If the climber falls, the rope will catch them and they will be suspended by the rope, typically a few feet below the last protection point they placed. The belayer then retrieves the rope and brings the climber back to the ground.
Overall, lead climbing is a challenging and rewarding form of climbing that requires a high level of skill and fitness. It offers the opportunity to challenge oneself and push one’s limits in a controlled and safe environment, and it is an exciting and rewarding activity for experienced climbers.