Ladder Climb — Confidence At Height

What Is The Ladder Climb?

The ladder climb requires you to ascend a 13.5-metre ladder, perform a leg lock at the top, remove both hands from the ladder, and look down. It tests your confidence at height and your physical ability to perform an operational task in exposed conditions.

This is a pass/fail test — there is no timed element. You either complete the climb and the leg lock, or you don't.

The Leg Lock Technique

At the top of the ladder, you will be required to perform a leg lock — a technique that secures you to the ladder without using your hands. The process: step one rung higher than your hands, hook your leg around the outside of the vertical rail and back across the rung, and shift your weight back to allow your hands to release.

Practice this on a lower rung first until the movement feels automatic. Height amplifies your focus on the technique, so the technique must already be muscle memory before you're 13 metres up.

How To Prepare

Gradual Exposure to Height

If you're nervous about heights, gradual exposure is the most effective preparation. Start at low heights and work upwards progressively. Each successful experience at height builds confidence for the next.

Physical Preparation

Pull-up strength helps with ladder climbing. Grip endurance is important — your hands will be holding your weight throughout the climb. Include dead hangs and pull-ups in your preparation.

Practice The Leg Lock

If you have access to a ladder, practice the leg lock at a safe low height until the technique is completely automatic. The mechanics need to be second nature before test day.