CLICK HERE to download the chapter on "Lead Climbing" from Gym Climbing * Explains how to get started and advance your skills at the local climbing gym * Author is a pioneering instructor and gym climbing course developer * Key exercises reinforce fundamental skills, illustrated in sequential photos Gym climbing has evolved into a sport in its own right and Matt Burbach has been there to spur it on. He established, developed, and directed the Indoor Climbing School of Earth Treks Climbing Center in Maryland, at the time the largest climbing gym on the east coast. Now he presents the same techniques and training exercises honed by coaching hundreds of climbers. Burbach covers all aspects of indoor rock climbing in detail, including what to look for in a gym, analysis of equipment and how it works, proper top-rope systems management, and movement technique. More advanced indoor climbers will appreciate chapters on topics such as indoor leading, performance, competition climbing, and bouldering. For outdoor rock climbers now training in gyms, this guide aids the "reverse" transition from climbing on real rock to pulling on plastic. Throughout, Burbach not only demonstrates the proper techniques and skills, but goes one step further to explain why those practices are better. For outdoor rock climbers now training in gyms, the book helps reverse the transition from climbing on real rock to pulling on plastic. ( Fitness Business Pro ) A comprehensive handbook. ( Los Angeles Times ) Adds a layer to the convenience: getting the most out of your workout. ( Everett Herald ) Burbach gives in-depth instruction for indoor rock climbing techniques to exercises to get [you] in shape for the sport. ( Tacoma News Tribune ) Techniques are clearly illustrated in sequential, easy-to-follow photos. ( Outdoors Unlimited ) MATT BURBACH has been a climbing instructor since 1995. He was the founding editor of Urban Climber Magazine , and his writings have been published in Gripped and Climbing . He established, developed, and directed the indoor climbing school at Earth Treks' Climbing Centers in Maryland, the largest climbing gyms on the east coast. Matt has worked in the climbing industry as an instructor, competitor, tech rep, visual merchandiser, and lead organizer of the Petzl, Roc Comp and Smackdown competitions. He is a graduate University of Maryland's College of Health and Human Performance and continues to coach climbers on an individual basis. Matt currently lives in New York City. GYM CLIMBING (MOE)