My self-rescue skills became rusty because I never got into the sort of trouble where they would be needed. That’s definitely a good thing. My self-rescue skills also became rusty because I never practiced them and didn’t get refresher training as often as I should have. That’s definitely a bad thing. The self-rescue course I did at the weekend highlighted for me just how risky it had been leaving it so long to get a refresher. There were so many aspects of the rope work that I had forgotten and other aspects that I wasn’t particularly confident on. The instructors were great at talking me through the steps of a variety of techniques and putting them to use in different scenarios on the rock. I feel more confident about self-rescue now and determined to practice it more often (although, only in pretend situations).
the Severe climber 
So you were the reason for all the moaning at the foundry yesterday! looks a cool course.
It was certainly cool. I’d recommend it.
Is it only lead/solo climbers who need to go on those courses or do you think all outdoor climbers should?
I think it’s useful for all climbers. How to tie-off a belay, prussik up a rope and abseil past a knot are things that you ought to know even if you only ever second. That knowledge could be vital if the leader gets injured or you have to get yourself out of a sticky situation.
Agree – think I should look for one of those courses when my hand gets better
Hey, good for you! How many climbers don’t even think about doing a self-rescue course!
Thanks. I guess now that mobiles are so common and lots (but obviously not all) climbing areas have reception, some people probably just think they can call for help.