MEA Course: Trad Anchor Skills Clinic (for ICS Students/Assistants)

Activity Notes

For ICS Students and Assistants Only

Small-group, intensive instruction — max 6:1, typically 4:1 ratio

This clinic is designed exclusively for current ICS students or those assisting with the program who want to deepen their trad anchor rigging skills. Building on your ICS foundation, we’ll cover:

• Rock inspection and gear cleaning
• Introduction to additional gear: hexes and tricams
• Piece extension and advanced rigging techniques
• Constructing and analyzing more complex anchors

Participants will integrate two key frameworks:

1. Gear Placement Analysis & Critique – systematic evaluation of placements.
2. Anchor Rigging Planning – asking: What does this anchor need to do? What resources do I have? How do I make a quick plan and execute it?

By the end, you’ll leave with stronger technical judgment, refined anchor systems, and the ability to approach complex anchor scenarios with more confidence.

Location: Smith Rock, Northern Point