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Rick Dotson

Outdoor School Instructor

Rick Dotson is an REI Outdoor School Instructor in the Mid-Atlantic region and has AMGA SPI (American Mountain Guides Association Single Pitch Instructor) certification.

Latest Articles

  • Skills

    How to Belay a Lead Climber

    45 reviews with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars

    Learn to belay a lead climber, including how it differs from top-rope belaying. We cover gear, setup, safety, communication and technique.

  • Skills

    How to Belay

    166 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars

    Learn the basics of top rope belaying, including gear, setup, safety checks and procedures, plus the PBUS method and how to lower a climber.

  • Skills

    How to Fall While Rock Climbing

    32 reviews with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars

    As a lead climber, learn how to manage the rope, to communicate with your belayer and how to position yourself before and during a fall.