ABOUT NICAS
NATIONAL INDOOR CLIMBING AWARD SCHEME
INTRODUCTION
WHAT IS NICAS?
The National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS®) Bouldering Scheme is a nationwide Scheme designed to provide a structured progression for complete novices through to experienced indoor boulderers. The Scheme focuses on introducing new and young climbers to the skills associated with climbing on artificial climbing walls without the use of harnesses or ropes.
AIMS OF THE SCHEME:
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To develop climbing movement skills & improve levels of technical ability
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To work as a team, communicate with, and trust other boulderers
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To provide a structure for development, motivation and improved performance
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To provide a record of personal achievement
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STRUCTURE OF THE SCHEME
NICAS LEVELS
The Scheme is split into five levels.
LEVEL 1 - NEW BOULDERER
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What is bouldering and how does it differ to climbing?
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How to descend from a boulder problem safely
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Understanding basic terminology
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Basic warm-up and warm-down exercises
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Learn basic balance positions
LEVEL 2 - FOUNDATION BOULDERER
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Bouldering equipment: shoes, chalk, brushes, clothing
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Body specific warm-up, warm-down and mobility exercises
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Begin to use more advanced terminology
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Basic bouldering techniques and route reading
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Understand the different grading systems
LEVEL 3 - COMPETENT BOULDERER
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Awareness of safety rules and hazards
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History of bouldering
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Risk management of the fall and the landing zones
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Limitations of spotting and the role of the spotter
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Advanced warm-up and warm-down techniques
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Understanding the importance of correct breathing
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Using hold types to inform route reading
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Development of advanced bouldering techniques
LEVEL 4 - SKILLED BOULDERER
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Understanding the difference between a casual session and a structured bouldering session
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Warming up for specific bouldering sessions
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Recognise different training aids
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Skin care, common ailments, finger tape
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Knowledge of more advanced bouldering techniques
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Identify personal weaknesses
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Have a detailed understanding of route reading
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Use visual imagery to break down difficult sequences
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Compete in at least 1 local bouldering competition
LEVEL 5 - PERFORMANCE BOULDERER
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Knowledge and application of training methodology
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Research appropriate training aids/apparatus
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Understanding injury management
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Understanding the differences between competitions
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Competition preparation
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Plan, structure and manage a training plan with goals
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Gain knowledge of bouldering outdoors
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Take part in at least three bouldering competitions
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PRICING
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Our Youth Climbing Club (YCC) has a variety of coached sessions up to NICAS level 4. For those wishing to progress to the highest level, we have Bloc Squad - our in-house performance squad with coaching up to NICAS level 5.
YCC FOUNDATION (NICAS Levels 1 & 2)
Price: £11.50/session, or £36.50/month
YCC INTERMEDIATE (NICAS Levels 2 & 3)
Price: £13.50/session, or £41.50/month
YCC ADVANCED (NICAS Levels 3 & 4)
Price: £13.50/session, or £41.50/month
BLOC SQUAD (NICAS Levels 4 & 5)
Price: £70/month (inc. unlimited entry)
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