Abseiling

What is it? 

Abseiling (from the German abseilen, meaning "to rope down"), also called rappelling (mainly in the United States), is a controlled descent down a rock face using a rope, generally whilst using the legs to keep yourself from banging into the rock. Climbers use this technique when a cliff or slope is too steep and/or dangerous to descend without protection or as a method to access difficult-to-reach areas from above for various industrial applications like maintenance, construction, inspection and welding. Rescue teams also use this method as a way to access injured or stranded victims.

What does it involve?

The activity involves either climbing to a certain point and abseiling down, or starting at the top and making your descent from there. There is normally a team assisting with rope control for beginners that other students can help with, so people can get as involved as much or as little as they like. 

Why do it and what are the benefits?

Abseiling can build a great sense of being part of a team amongst students as they all complete the task together and help each other out, and can be a big confidence boost for each individual. 

What equipment do we need?

The only thing you will need to take care of is the attire of the students - make sure they are dressed appropriately! The venue should provide all the equipment needed to abseil, but check beforehand if you are unsure.

Who is it suitable for?

Most ages of students will enjoy abseiling; there are many varieties of environments to do it in, so if you choose appropriately for the age range of the group then everybody should have a good time.

Costs?

The costs vary greatly depending on the type of abseiling you do, as the activity can vary from a small indoor wall to abseiling down a cliff face; you must decide upon exactly what you wish to do and research the prices of the providers in the desired area.

Issues/Things to think about? (unsuitable for age groups, medical conditions etc)

Younger children may be wary of getting up high, but most students should be fine taking part in abseiling activities. Also, venues who provide abseiling must by law have a valid AALS license - ask to see confirmation if you are unsure. 

How do we include?

Students with disabilties may feel left out if they are less physically able and therefore cannot control their movements while climbing, but there are more and more facilties that cater to the disabled who wish to abseil. It's possible for deaf, blind and wheelchair-bound individuals to abseil if the venue is set up for it - check out the venues around you for more information. 

Doing it abroad?

Abseiling is reasonably popular the world over thanks to its origins in practicality rather than enjoyment, so if you research providers in the area you are going to ahead of time it's likely there will be an abseiling activity to enjoy no matter where you are!

Main website: 

Visit http://www.ukclimbing.com/articles/page.php?id=167 for a good overview of the practical elements involved in abseiling.