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AMGA Single Pitch Instructor (SPI)
Course and Exam

The 3 day SPI course is for recreational climbers who want to make the jump into professional world of climbing instruction.   The 2 day SPI exam is for those seeking certification that are ready to meet the industry standard as a professional instructor.  The eastern Sierra makes a perfect venue for the course and exam, as we can visit climbing sites with different rock types, styles of climbing, and different anchoring and rigging options.  The courses and exam will be in the Mammoth Lakes, and Bishop area.

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SPI 2024 Course Dates:
9/2-9/4
​10/21-10/23

SPI 2024 Exam Dates:
10/29-10/30

SPI Course Prerequisites:

  • You are a Professional Member of the AMGA.

  • You have a genuine interest in rock climbing and instructing novices on single pitch crags.

  • You are at least 18 years old at the time of the course.

  • You have at least 12 months prior climbing experience.

  • You are an active climber with traditional lead climbing experience (leader placing pro).

  • You have led a minimum of 15 traditional rock climbing routes (any grade).

  • You are capable of comfortably climbing 5.8 while on a top rope.

The above prerequisites are absolute minimums. Without having at least this amount experience you are unlikely to make best use of the training.

SPI Exam

Prerequisites

  • You are a current member of the AMGA.

  • You have successfully completed an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course.

  • You have led a minimum of 40 traditional routes, most of which should be 5.6 and on a variety of rock types.

  • You are able to comfortably lead 5.6 traditional routes, which means you place protection.

  • You are able to comfortably climb 5.8 on top rope.

  • The SPI Assessment can be taken directly following the SPI Course if the candidate successfully completed the course and meets the assessment prerequisites. However, it is highly recommended that the SPI Course candidate take time practicing and consolidating the skills learned on the course before assessment (6-12 months).

  • You do not need First Aid training to take the course or assessment. However, it is your responsibility to hold appropriate medical certification for the location that you are working in.

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