Introducing NICAS Speed: Our Fastest Ever Scheme….. April Fools!

As the sport of climbing continues its rapid rise in popularity, we’re excited to unveil NICAS Speed – a brand new scheme launching in summer 2025, in partnership with EP Climbing

NICAS Speed is dedicated to one of climbing’s most exhilarating and high-energy disciplines: Speed Climbing. Whether you’re just learning the ropes or dreaming of stepping onto an international podium, this scheme is designed to take climbers from their first timed ascent to world-class performance.

Why Speed Climbing?

Speed Climbing is all about explosive movement, precision, and yes — speed! But it’s also about discipline, technique, and mastering the mental game of high-pressure performance. NICAS Speed blends all of that into a structured, progressive journey.

And yes… it’s seriously fun.

🧩 The Structure: Three Levels of Progression

NICAS Speed is broken down into three progressive levels, each tailored to help climbers build confidence, refine technique, and push their limits – at their own pace.

⚙️ Level 1 – Foundation Speed Climber

For new climbers or first-time speedsters

This level introduces climbers to the fundamentals of Speed Climbing in a safe, structured and super fun way. Perfect for younger climbers or those new to the discipline.

What’s covered:

• Safe use of auto-belays or top ropes
• Climbing movement and body positioning
• Basic timing and understanding personal pace
• Intro to route reading and pre-climb rituals
• Teamwork and peer encouragement

By the end of Level 1, climbers will have completed their first timed routes and learned how to move with purpose and confidence on the wall.

🧠 Level 2 – Technical Speed Climber

For those ready to refine and get faster

Level 2 turns up the intensity. Climbers begin developing explosive power, efficient footwork, and advanced movement techniques while learning to track and improve their times.

Focus areas:

• Dynamic movement and powerful starts
• Route segmentation and planning
• Video review and performance feedback
• Competition-style starts and timings
• Foot placement, accuracy, and… optimal shoe-lacing techniques (every second counts!) 👟⏱️

This level is all about training smart and building the engine for speed performance.

🥇 Level 3 – Competition Speed Climber

For climbers who want to push boundaries

Level 3 prepares climbers for competitive environments — whether that’s local youth comps, regional events, or looking toward the GB Climbing pathway.

What’s included:

• Full-speed route execution under pressure
• Mental strategies for comps
• Strength and conditioning for speed
• Time goals and benchmark achievements
• Competition simulations and mini-events

Climbers finishing this level will have the tools, mindset, and speed-focused foundation to continue toward elite-level performance — or just enjoy being the fastest climber at the wall!

🛠️ Who Can Take Part?

NICAS Speed is designed for climbers of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re starting out or already a NICAS veteran, it’s a thrilling new way to train, grow, and challenge yourself.

Instructors across the UK will be trained and equipped to deliver the scheme, with resources rolling out summer 2025. Centres will be able to integrate NICAS Speed alongside existing NICAS Clip and Climb, Bouldering, and Ropes pathways.

🧱 Ready to Join the Race?

NICAS Speed brings together fun, focus, and future opportunities in a single fast-paced format. Whether you’re 7 or 17, if you’ve got a need for speed, this is the scheme for you.

⏳ Let the countdown begin…

🏁 See you on the speed wall!

…. or maybe not. Happy April Fool’s Day! While NICAS Speed isn’t real (yet), we’re always exploring new ways to inspire the next generation of climbers. If you are interested please let us know by contacting us!