| Q. |
How did ropes courses begin? |
| A. |
In the early days of World War II, ropes courses were developed as a form of military training that required teamwork from soldiers. The name "ropes course" originates with these early versions that consisted of ropes strung from trees or other structures to create a series of obstacles that provide physical and mental challenges for individuals and groups. Fulcrum Adventures ropes courses have come a long way from the early days --we have replaced the ropes with steel cables and forged steel bolts, and all of our courses are equipped with high-tech belay devices and safety systems. |
| Q. |
Are ropes courses safe? |
| A. |
At Fulcrum Adventures, safety comes first. Our courses are designed, built, maintained and run by ropes course experts. We use state-of-the art safety equipment at all of our ropes course sites. On the ropes course the actual risk is very low. It is the perceived risk that provides powerful experiences that can be used to foster personal and team growth. |
| Q. |
What is the difference between low ropes course and high ropes course challenges? |
| A. |
During Low Ropes Course challenges, the focus is on the team. These activities draw on the knowledge and ideas of every group member and require the participation and cooperation of the entire team for success.
The High Ropes Course challenges provide further opportunities for teamwork with an additional emphasis on individual challenges. The high elements provide opportunities for participants to expand their comfort zones, sometimes dramatically and to overcome fears that can block personal development and achievement. Fulcrum Adventures’ approach encourages interaction on the high elements by having team members control the belay system and provide support for the climbers, which is critical to success on the high elements. |
| Q. |
Do I have to be in good shape to do a ropes course? |
| A. |
The beauty of Fulcrum Adventures ropes courses is that everyone can participate, regardless of physical ability or athletic experience. There are no failures on the ropes course. Adventure Associates uses a challenge by choice approach so that each participant measures success by his or her own aspirations. |
| Q. |
What if I am afraid of heights? |
| A. |
If someone is afraid of heights, simply climbing a foot or two up a tree can be a major accomplishment and source of pride. If a participant chooses not to attempt an event, we respect this decision and offer other ways in which the person can participate including providing support through belaying, coaching or spotting. |
| Q. |
What if the weather is bad the day of our ropes course? |
| A. |
Typically ropes course team building programs will run rain or shine. In the event of lightning or high winds we will take a break to see if the weather clears. Repeatedly participants report that inclement weather actually added to the excitement and level of adventure of their ropes course team-building program. |
| Q. |
How long does a ropes course take? |
| A. |
We can customize a ropes course for a half-day, full day or multi-day, depending on your needs. |
| Q. |
Where are Fulcrum Adventures’ ropes courses located? |
| A. |
Our custom ropes course programs can be hosted at a location near you. Please contact us for more information at 877-GO-FULCRUM. |
| Q. |
Are handicapped individuals able to participate on our high ropes courses? |
| A. |
There are a number of options for handicapped participants on our ropes courses.
Firstly, held on a very tight belay most people can have some sort of experience of climbing on their own power and be lowered in a very tight, controlled manner. This tight belay can be augmented with a two-to-one pulley system than can actually boost a climber as high as they want to go.
Secondly, there is an event called a flying squirrel where the entire team lifts the participant into the air as high as they wish. This is very empowering to the participant and the team. |
