How to Make a Rope for Climbing for Kids

Rope climbing builds a child's muscles.

Rope climbing is a good workout for children because it promotes muscle strength, particularly in the arms, back and shoulders. Many schools have climbing ropes present for use during gym classes. If your child enjoys rope climbing, making your own to hang at home lets him practice and refine his climbing technique. The supplies needed to make a climbing rope are available at sporting goods stores or hardware stores.

Things You'll Need

• Four strands of 7/16-inch nylon rope
• Hanging hardware
• Tape

Instructions

1. Measure and cut your nylon rope threads. You will need about 1-1/2 feet for each foot of finished rope. For example, strands that are 35 feet long result in a 25-foot long climbing rope.

2. Braid the strands by overlapping them to form a thicker rope. Tape the rope every foot or so as you go to hold the braid in place, or have a partner who can help keep the braid from twisting. Braid it very tightly to prevent slippage during climbing.

3. Secure the ends of the rope with sturdy tape. This will keep it from unraveling of fraying as it is used. Duct tape is a good choice. You may need to apply several lengths of tape to firmly secure the ends of your climbing rope. Reapply tape as necessary, because it will likely begin to lift as the climbing rope is used.

4. Hang the rope from a sturdy location, such as a wooden ceiling beam. You may be able to find a specific kit for hanging climbing ropes, but Ross Enamait, a trainer, recommends using two half hitches to hang the rope.

5. Test the climbing rope. Make any adjustments needed to the climbing hardware and length of the rope before consistent use.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't allow your children to use a climbing rope without supervision. Always stand at the bottom while your child is climbing in case he loses his grip.

• Place a large cushion or mat under the climbing rope, so if your child does fall, he is not injured by landing on a hard floor, particularly if you have installed the rope in a basement or garage.

• Letting your child wear climbing gloves prevents rope burns on his palms.

• Many recreation centers offer rope climbing classes or lessons, something you may want to consider before investing in the time and money to make your own climbing rope.

• Always secure the climbing rope out of reach of children when not in use to prevent accidents or injuries.

References

• It's Tactical: How to Make a Fast Rope for Climbing
• Ross Training: Rope Climbing
• Girevik Magazine: Rope Climbing Techniques