Belaying is a bedrock technique of climbing safety, a system of using a rope to stop a fall if one should occur. Belaying works like magic, but, like any good magic trick, it takes a lot of practice to do well and requires a basic understanding of underlying principles.In its simplest form, a belay consists of nothing more than a rope that runs from a climber to another person, the belayer, who is ready to stop a fall. Three things make the magic work: a skilledbelayer, a stance or anchor to resist the pull of the fall, and a method of applying a stopping force to the rope. There are many ways to apply this force, a variety of stances, and many methods of setting up and tying into as anchor.

Mountaineering Basics: Anchors: Selecting an Anchor

Mountaineering Basics: Anchors: Tying In

Mountaineering Basics: Applying Friction: Belay Devices

Mountaineering Basics: Applying Friction: Breaking Hand

Mountaineering Basics: Applying Friction: Choosing Methods

Mountaineering Basics: Applying Friction: The Munter Hitch

Mountaineering Basics: Belaying: Holding the Fall

Mountaineering Basics: Belaying: Protecting the Leader

Mountaineering Basics: Belaying: Simple Top-Rope Belay

Mountaineering Basics: Communication

Mountaineering Basics: Knots

Mountaineering Basics: Position/Stance: Facing in/out

Mountaineering Basics: Position/Stance: Position & Anchor

Mountaineering Basics: Position/Stance: the Stance

Mountaineering Basics: Rope Handling