How to Tie Belaying Knots

Knot tying is a fundamental skill needed in the sport of rock climbing. There are many knots appropriate for different situations, and it takes a lot of practice to become proficient at knowing how to tie these knots. One of the most basic knots used in climbing is the figure eight knot, commonly used to belay another person. The figure eight knot is easy to tie and untie and is strong enough to hold the forces generated by a fall.

Instructions

    • 1

      Form a loop by holding the standing end of the rope (the part that will attach to the harness) in your left hand and bringing the other end of the rope over the top of the standing end. Tie the knot about 3 to 3 1/2 feet from the end of the rope.

    • 2

      Hold the loop with your left hand, with the end of the rope in your right hand.

    • 3

      Bring the end of the rope (being held in the right hand) behind the loop and pass it over the top of the rope in your left hand and through the center of the loop.

    • 4

      Pull one end of rope (being held in the right hand) to tighten it. The knot should resemble a figure eight.