The American Mountain Guides Association (AMGA) Single-Pitch Instructor (SPI) Exam is the first in the AMGA sequence of climbing instructor and guide training assessments. The SPI exam is designed to help recreational climbers transition into capable and effective climbing instructors. The exam certifies that the instructor has the technical and teaching skills required to instruct rock climbing in a single-pitch setting.
For the purpose of the SPI Program a single-pitch climb is: climbed without intermediate belays and presents no difficulties on approach or retreat. This includes skills such as route finding, scrambling or navigating.
Certified Single-Pitch Instructors are expected to demonstrate the technical and educational proficiencies necessary to instruct a variety of single pitch rock climbing skills in a safe and effective manner in all settings.
Check out these resources and the tabs below to learn more.
AMGA SPI Course and Exam
2024 AMGA SPI Program Handbook
Need climbing instructor training but don’t meet the AMGA SPI Assessment prerequisites? Kaf Adventures also offers a variety of instructional courses in many disciplines. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us for more details.
6:1
3
This course will run 8am-5pm both days, rain or shine. You are responsible for your own lodging and food. Campsites are available nearby the climbing area.
Day 1 – Plan on demonstrating your technical skills right away. Most of the day is focused on leading, instructing, building anchors and systems, managing your peers, and performing a rescue. Come prepared to guide/instruct on Day 1 and show up ready to take anyone climbing on any style route. Act like it is a day you are working for your organization. You will need to communicate and work with your peers on the first night of the exam so be prepared for a long evening on Day 1 and an early morning on Day 2.
Day 2 – This day will be focused more on soft skills and group management. You will be leading a group through a top roping day, and demonstrating your ability to work with others. The examiner may arrange for volunteer novice clients (non-paying) for the candidates to instruct in a group setting. This is not required but is a great benefit to the assessment process.
Please see the AMGA SPI Program Manual for a more detailed curriculm flow and assessment criteria.
AMGA Requirements for this Exam: