What You'll Get
If the Indiana Jones films have taught us anything, it is that in order to have a successful teaching career, one must train one's upper body to be adept at dangling. Channel your inner action hero with today's Groupon: for $50, you get a Rock Movement 101 climbing course from Arcadian Ascents at Mission Trails Regional Park in San Diego (a $125 value).
Arcadian Ascents' guides, certified as Single Pitch instructors by the American Mountain Guides Association and as Wilderness First Responders by the Wilderness Medicine Institute, shepherd rock huggers through the basics of vertical travel. Outfitted in all the necessary equipment, including helmets, harnesses, ropes, and climbing shoes, the four- to six-hour Rock Movement 101 course introduces novice scalers to fundamental technical skills such as how to fit a harness, how to tie into the rope, and how to install a hard drive. During the course, which can take place on the pristine cliff faces of Mission Trails Regional Park, instructors will primarily focus on aiding climbers in discovering hand holds and in honing their spider-like movements.
The Fine Print
Promotional value expires May 3, 2012. Amount paid never expires. Limit 1 per person, may buy 2 additional as gifts. 72hr cancellation notice required or fee up to Groupon price may apply. Under 13 must have guardian present. Must sign waiver. Not valid at Big Rock or Lake Dixon locations. Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services.
About Arcadian Ascents
Arcadian Ascents helps students to master the art of open-air rock climbing with guided excursions and onsite lessons for all experience levels. The maximum student-to-instructor ratio for each class is 4:1, and all guides and instructors have earned certifications as single pitch instructors from the American Mountain Guides Association and as wilderness first responders from the Wilderness Medicine Institute. Private and group courses cover material from basic rock movement to custom-designed courses on speed climbing, self-rescue, and advanced rope technique. Arcadian Ascents provides all equipment for most courses, including climbing shoes, helmets, ropes, and mountain-goat bribes.
Rock-ascending buffs can also expand their experience and strive for new personal achievements on guided trips to Mexico or Spain. Veteran climber and guide Josh Wieberg leads his charges with experience climbing from Canada to Italy and wields his BA in history and philosophy to teach in public schools when not scaling their brick walls.