AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

The AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Program (SPI) is the only nationally and internationally recognized single pitch climbing instructor certification program. In 2009, the AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Program was recognized for meeting the training standards of the International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation (UIAA). It holds the prestigious title of “Approved Association.” No other organization in the United States offering training in single pitch terrain can make that claim.

Many land managers, insurance companies, other associations, and the general public recognize the AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Program. This program also fits into the AMGA Rock Discipline training program, taking off from the AMGA Climbing Wall Instructor Program and improves the instructor’s skill sets. SPI seamlessly integrates into the next level of training, the AMGA Rock Guide Course.

Additionally, many SPI Program Providers teach higher level courses for the AMGA and serve on the AMGA’s Technical Committee, so they are actively involved in all levels of instructor and guide training in the AMGA.

The SPI program is for active climbers with a real desire to teach rock climbing to novices in a single pitch setting. Candidates must be passionate climbers with their own equipment, regularly climb and have been rock climbing outdoors for at least 12 months.

SPI Course

Our three-day comprehensive course covers anchor systems, bottom and top managed sites, guided rappels, rescues and more. Students gain a wealth of knowledge from this program which sets the standard for climbing instruction.

 

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.

Course Tuition:
$675

Course Location:
Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Upcoming Courses:

Nov. 9th-11th 2024, Jan. 3rd-5th 2025   

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Single Pitch Instructor Exam Preparation

This course prepares prospective SPI candidate to take the SPI assessment. A WLI instructor will evaluate the skills competency of the SPI candidate, give detailed instruction and review additional topics that will be examined during the SPI assessment. (needs 2 people minimum to run)

Course Tuition:
$300

Course Location:
Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Upcoming Exam Prep:

TBD 2025

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SPI Exam

This two-day assessment will examine many aspects of institutional single pitch climbing that the Single Pitch Instructor may encounter. Candidates will focus on technical skills, instruction, and overall guiding ability. Although this is an assessment, WLI instructors emphasize continued learning through constructive feedback and debriefing.

 

Prerequisites

  • You are a current member of the AMGA.
  • You have successfully completed an AMGA Single Pitch Instructor Course within the past 2 years. For those renewing, their SPI certification must be valid or within 1 year expiration.
  • 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 (3-6 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.

Exam Tuition:
$500

Exam Location:
Joshua Tree National Park, CA

Upcoming Exams: 

TBD 2025

Register