Do you get scared climbing trees?

Are you a new tree climber and think that you maybe chose the wrong career? Do you think you might be too scared when you are in the tree? Hold that thought and listen to this episode of Coffee Break, you might feel a little better after this…
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[@treemeisterz7477]

After doing tree work from the ground for a few years I was eager to start climbing but once I did start climbing, every time I got into a tree my confidence was destroyed by fear. this was pretty frustrating because I truly did want to climb but I was starting to second guess that decision. 2 things changed my life. One; reminding myself that all of my gear can hold a car! Keeping that in the back of your mind does a lot! Two; I noticed that my fear would be at its worst when I first got to the top so naturally I thought it was a fear of heights. It wasn’t until I tried ascending SRT that I realized it wasn’t the heights it was my breathing! When your fatigued and up high your body knows it’s not a good combo and it triggers your fear to keep you safe. So I started taking short breaks to keep my breath rate and heart rate down and suddenly I found myself moving around with less and less fear at higher and higher heights!

[@need100k]

Bravo to you for conquering your fear. For me, climbing was easy because, from a very early age I had zero fear of heights. Once while a second story addition was being built on our house, (I was maybe 10 years old), I got up to the second story roof and walked up to the top and stood inches from the edge and waved at my father below. He yelled at me to get down of course, but I had no fear whatsoever. So in my opinion, your heavy breathing was due to that fear, which you've learned to overcome. I have a very healthy fear of falling, so I always told myself NEVER to become careless or overconfident. ALWAYS double and triple check my gear every time I made a transition, or made a cut to be sure it wouldn't somehow come back and take me out. I was never a top pro climber, but a decent climber and did well enough. More on the slow side, but I have to say I absolutely loved it and I wish I kept climbing until now, though I'm near retirement age. I was about to say climbing trees was the most enjoyable job I've ever done, but I worked on a horse ranch when I was a teenager and that was quite a lot of fun as well, so.... it's a tossup.

[@zlinky1113]

Helpful reply. Thank you. : )

[@jakejasonread980]

As a newly qualified arborist (less than one years experience) I’ve found all of your videos to be an excellent source of knowledge. However, this ongoing Coffee Break mini-series is particularly good as it leaves me feeling not only inspired, but also reminds that we all started at the same place at one point or another. Thanks for the awesome content! Jake.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Wow, thank you! I'm so glad to hear you are loving this series and style of video. If ever you have questions or things you'd like to hear an opinion on, don't hesitate to comment what you'd like to hear about.

[@enjoyyourlife2518]

Stay safe out there guys . My mate died learning to climb ,he was in his early 20s . Having someone experienced watching over you when you start n not having a boss that pushes you when your not ready , double checking ALWAYS. Please stay safe even after 25 years of climbing ,one bit of complacency can get you . And we need you here . Miss you Mick . Missed by so many.

[@1neAdam12]

I'm only afraid of ladders.

[@TorchedTv]

Ha. I hate ladders.

[@ClimbingArborist]

I'm with you there

[@tanglewood777]

yea i find that once in tree am fine

[@TonyMontgomery18]

I love ladder work. Especially for trees, I’ve got a whole system where I can attach the feet to the ground, if necessary, and then I climb carefully and attach the top of the ladder to the tree securely, then attach myself to the ladder, and I’m off to the races😁

[@1neAdam12]

@@TonyMontgomery18 Extensions aren't too bad for that reason, how they can be secured to a branch and where you can even safety lanyard to a branch to stabilize you. It was a 12' A-frame that ended my 30year career.

[@codychickadee5095]

More amazing info. It is so good to know that even the experienced arborists still have these emotions to deal with. Thank you for sharing this with us.

[@magnumtreefalling6400]

Started climbing in the 80's rigging backspars. No climbing line, hemp rope and a cats paw.and a 660 hanging from the linemans belt. once you start trusting your devices and rope the fear dissipates...never truly goes away. Use it to be safer

[@joshlower1]

So your saying you have no friends because you all were unsafe as fuck and there all dead?

[@Wack_to_wac]

I never had a fear of heights but have a fear of falling. I use that fear to keep me safe and make sure im properly tied in and everything. What gets me is dead trees have to rope out the top to itself. Now that is hard to get use too. Great video!

[@iannewman20ify]

Exactly the same for me I realised it on holiday a few years ago I was having a proper panick up on the way up a waterpark slide I couldn't do it 😂😂🤦‍♂️I'd take 100ft up in my harness all day long please 👌

[@danpowell1776]

Thanks for the video Dan it was one of your best. I know how confident you are as a climber because I've seen all of your videos. But it's really refreshing to hear a real competent climber address the emotional part of the job. It's the part that can make or break you. Good judgment and the ability to control your emotions are key elements of being a good arborist in my opinion. Thanks for admitting your fear. Addressing these subjects do more for keeping inexperienced climbers from losing their lives. The honesty in your videos have always made me gain respect for you. Thanks for caring and taking the time to help all of us.

[@ClimbingArborist]

I really appreciate everything you said 🙏🙏🙏

[@jamestaylor338]

Excellent video! Thank you so much! I feel like this is a direct response to a comment I made on a previous video but it seems to be a topic that's never really mentioned, so it's definitely great to see someone actually addressing it.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Thanks for all of your comments James. I'm glad you liked this insight, fear isn't something that should put people off, but I bet it happens all the time

[@danvellucci5192]

Great to see someone talking about this, thanks! I’m a year into climbing rec/hunting and love it but am totally solo diy. Tree Climber’s Companion and KZbin educated. Fear is my greatest asset right now.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Fear is your friend as it is for us all. Embrace the fear

[@paysonoberly4454]

As a newbie, I find this coffee break particularly informative. I've learned from work in my past that if fear is managed appropriately, it will help propel you into comfort and competency. Being intimidated forces you to pay more attention to the task at hand. I'll definitely keep this video in mind for the next time I get psyched out. Love it.

[@JimJamJammer]

Good one Dan. Fear is a killer. I personally love to climb and get my trees sorted out. Practise is key. There is some much about tree work that you really need to stick to a method that will help you be at peace with climbing. From there you can decide what works or not. You Tube is great for seeing what is out there but I truly think that getting taught is best. Take it slow and gradually develop yourself to climb safely and with confidence. Even if it's a small tree it doesn't matter. I freak out because I haven't yet got the control of my Petzl Zigzag when descending. Two days with it and I'm good. I also think it's important to keep at it because leaving it for long will bring back lack of confidence.

[@masterallcock]

I’ve done a few climbs so far and so much of what you’ve said here completely resonates with how I feel! Thanks so much for the video, it’s so good to know that it isn’t just me

[@anthonyholloway5522]

I've been climbing for 14 yrs and I still get nervous! Idk why I get like this and it only gets to me in really tall trees that I have to rig out. Its so bad I get sick to my stomach. I can't seem to kick the anxiety!

[@CampfireKodiak]

There are not many videos on physical fear. Good insights! Thank you.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@liamkent8305]

I'm 6 months in to the Industry and did my biggest removal literally yesterday. I haven't done alot of removals mainly pruning, crown lifts & height reductions. And there's just something about being on spurs and nothing underneath you puts the fear on. Like many comments on here I thought "why the f**k am I doing this, if I can't do this then how are you going to be any good if you can't do this size of removal". But when 'The Boss' says 'you got this, If I didn't think you could do it, I wouldn't of put you in the tree.' Having a sick boss massively helps too 🤘

[@kalebdeese3192]

You’ve got this man, just stick with it. Grats on the big removal 🤙

[@ClimbingArborist]

Your boss sounds awesome, stick with him and take every opportunity he gives you

[@liamkent8305]

@@kalebdeese3192 oh Kaleb it wasn't a big removal I'll be honest lol. Just my biggest so far!

[@kalebdeese3192]

@@liamkent8305 man they’ll get bigger and bigger. Sounds like you do have a pretty great boss. I try to encourage all the newer guys in my crew too, it seems to really help. Stay safe out there 🤙

[@livingtreellc8173]

I'll never forget the first time I was in a tree above a two story house and the wind blew through... was something else haha. I'm really new to all of this but love it. Started off as a way to make money during the summer and is now its own LLC. Still in college but love doing this stuff. You do a great job with this channel man thanks for being real.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Great stuff buddy, I appreciate your comment!!👍

[@tonibueltemann5516]

Thank you for making this video, it is really important for people to know that this is absolutely normal. I have been there, and occasionally return there, and I have worked through it. Great video and be safe.

[@alicat3048]

I was trying to find answers about how to get over my fear with my job. I've been a groundie for 3 years, and had the opportunity to start climbing. I'm trying with everything I've got, but each time my confidence gets hit by how scared I am. Each of the things you pointed out about what I'm fearing, is so true! Thank you for this conversation

[@groundpounder24365]

Greetings from Michigan, Im 41 and am a tree business owner. I have taken up climbing this yr after watching tons of videos and getting all the necessary gear. Iv been quite enjoying it actually, sure is much different then my bucket truck. Iv done 9 jobs this yr climbing but have only went up about 40ft. Certainly takes some getting used to

[@lukewilcock428]

Been climbing for a year mainly doing reasonably big removals as I work for my local council, I love it so much an it’s nice to here you’re not alone feeling fear every new climber should here this. I am so much more confident and relaxed up there now 😁

[@ClimbingArborist]

Thanks for your comment dude. Please share this video with any new guys and girls that might appreciate to hear that it isn't just them that get scared

[@88foldpath]

When I was 5 my big bro taught me how to hang out the 2nd story window for fun. I'd do it with one hand sometimes even. Love climbing stuff! Been wired differently from a young age lol. Idk it's kind of like, I just REALLY trust my grip and instincts. Spent high school climbing buildings lol and when I found out I can make money climbing trees it was game over.

[@AndyGustavsson]

Great stuff, I´ve been thinking about getting into the arb culture for a few years and I´ve finally made the decision to pursue it before I get to old and regretting not doing it. (I´ve applied to one of those courses you´re talking about in the video) your videos are a great source of knowledge and inspiration, thank you!

[@richardgaskill2138]

I’m in the same boat man! I have a drive to do this and don’t want my age of 40 to stop me. Stay safe!

[@carlroeleveld9856]

Great topic today! A lot of mentors told me that the fear helps keep you safe

[@ClimbingArborist]

So true!

[@kcsanson4216]

Bro this coffee break is great ! Love it

[@JadensRedemption]

Thank you from my heart. I gave up on climbing earlier in my life, and am taking a second shot at it. We took on an elm in a backyard. The house, the shed, the pool, the fence. Just zero cut and drop. Almost through it. I felt super overwhelmed with the project. I said that we could do it, and am glad my boss is so patient with it. The local tree service wouldnt touch it without a crane. Heck of a challenge for getting back into the industry. I have definately been feeling the fear. I tried a tip tie with a green groundie, and took a log to the face. Than training 3 other groundies after that. Having a green groundie for a critical cut on a top, after slapping the eaves. The feeling of forcing myself to get somewhere in a tree, and than waking up the next day, and knowing that I have to force myself to that place. Building that trust in the gear, and my abilities and knowledge gained by time on the ground, and minimal ground time. Idk. Been up and down the tree a lot. Having a position rope has helped a lot! Even two prs at times has helped. Today, I was in a spot, where I wished there was a branch to grab. Than the chain came loose, so I came down. Which is when I thought, I know that I can get there. The second time getting up there, I put a wrap around the tree with my flip line, and got to enjoy the view a bit. Thanks for talking about it and encouraging me no to give up on a dream

[@AssafLevyIL]

This is coming to me at such a perfect time. I'm starting climbing and I'm terrified, but I'm keeping at it. thank you for this vid

[@Bellzeebub666]

Excellent video, put a lot of thing in perspective for me, I'm not qualified yet and always had issues with heights. Everything said makes perfect sense and I've taken all on board. Thank you.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Glad it was helpful!

[@claytonw188]

Climbed a 170 foot redwood in California. Always pretty scary but trust your gear and your abilities and make sure to enjoy the view up there.

[@DavidOsborne_sprdave]

I learned to climb trees out of necessity. I have a lot of trees and not a lot of money. Since I don't do it every day, every time I get in a tree, I have to learn again and build my fitness. I find that I can deal with my fear by going SLOW. I tell myself, "I have a job, and I can make the next cut next week." Also, I secure myself with a steel core flipline, a CE lanyard, and my climbing line in a lot of scenarios. I pay a lot of attention to work positioning. I call it "fixing up my office". That really makes the fear go away. Also I think about worst case scenario before the cut.

[@tymesho]

David, positioning is everything! Only cut when you feel comfortable, and never above your head.

[@treemands]

@@tymesho Cutting above your head is a positive sometimes when a crane pick is being made. If the piece flips then you don't get gutted with the butt in your stomach and lanyard not letting you release from the stem or get knocked in the head. Everyone is gonna flip a pick sometime. You haven't been at this very long have you Michigan Mister.?

[@davidfish7901]

Thank you for this video . I have been a groundy for years and decided to buy gear and show my boss I was committed. But when up in the tree my fear starts telling me I'm a failure and can never claim the title of climber . While my ego told me I shouldn't be afraid . I know the book I read tells me to start low and slow . Have an awesome day , y'all covers are the men I look up to

[@hosocat1410]

Good thoughts. Thanks for sharing.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Thanks for watching! we appreciate your comment

[@zigzagzimmy3941]

Newish climber here been climbing and working for about a year. I really appreciated this video because I'm just now getting over the fear, but it's still in the back of my head some days when I'm in a bigger tree with a wide canopy. For a video suggestion in the future, what would do you think about talking about off the job diets, exercise routines, and body self care throughout the week? Especially on days when work isn't so rough... thanks!

[@dragan3290]

Exactly what I needed! When I went into highrise construction. Damn I was petrified! And that was in the Alimak. First time in an EWP? Same. After a while I loved going up in the highest boom lift!( the biggest 4wd versions) 103 foot. If I'm correct? Once I got used to the height, I would go straight up and look down just to get the vertigo effect to go away. It went away like you say after about a year. Now I'm obsessed with Arborist work! Love rock climbing as well. Exhilarating feeling especially in nature. I wanna overcome the fear from childhood! Thanks for all your vids! Extremely informative. Cheers from Australia just subbed.nice work 🙂👍👍👍

[@I-am-sparticus]

Scared myself silly the other day. My foot ascender got jammed. Ended up in a bad position with my leg up past my waist slipping off the trunk. Managed to unbuckle the ascender and started to come back down when my Blake's hitch jammed up. Took me ages to get it free. Since then I'm worrying all the time about getting stuck up top again. Important lessons learned that day though.

[@eliseo3500]

Thanks mate, fear can be used but certainly impact our senses up on a tree, we just use that fear differently I guess, great vid

[@leeveler7729]

Good show I'm 52 with 25+ years in. I've been in some crazy ones. A 140ft white pine the woodpeckers used as a drumming log about 40ft up. The cavity was so big I crawled in it and tucked my gear and started screaming haha. All the ground guys were looking everywhere on the ground in the tree. When I poked my head out they freaked. They asked me how I was going to get it down because we had to rope ALL of it. I said tiny pieces haha. I didnt have to worry about falling because by the time I got to my tie-in I was so covered in pitch I stuck to the tree Good Times

[@brettblack7049]

What state are you in/where was the white pine. Here in Michigan we have some good sized ones.

[@leeveler7729]

Yeah man in Brimley in an old indian cemetery with above ground graves from the 1650's on top of mission hill. We couldn't disturb nothing. It had so many holes in it I took the top at 3in diameter and my guys let her run. Couldn't have done it without em

[@leeveler7729]

I'm from da Soo eh

[@raytyre750]

Haha, I know the feeling. Big longleafs in the summer are the sappiest things on earth. Sometimes I feel like a bug on flypaper. My wife buys GoJo by the gallon.

[@ricardoarrais6910]

you nailed it. this is the problem because if we are 100% sure of our safety, it does not make sense to be afraid, even if you are afraid of the altitude. But how much we should trust our gears we don't know, so I think we should always be prepared for everything

[@ClimbingArborist]

Great stuff buddy, I appreciate your comment!!

[@jackshort2033]

Sometimes I have to remind myself not to get too far from my fear. After several years of doing it I find myself taking more chances -- climbing up and out onto smaller diameter limbs than I would have when I started. Last week I did a drone rescue, about 60 foot up at the very top of an Australian pine that had already dropped some large limbs on its own. I had no high tie in point because the drone was at the very top, and I found myself on 3 to 4 inch branches. It was great to have pulled it off, but I had to have a moment of reflection after.

[@FT4Freedom]

Climbed my first 20 feet up a Ponderosa. Love the Ponderosa. It's just humble personal enjoyment and relatively safe mental challenge. I set simple goals and visualize my climb. I believe that climbing should be done with responsibility. I loved my first climb to 20 feet. Seems like nothing but I feel reborn because I am leaving some small increment of fear behind. Safety, humility, responsibility, preparation. I learn so much about myself during the process. I learn about the process as well. I do remember feeling that I had enough that day. I remember being motivated for the ground. And I have new goals for the next climb. I'm a Groundie at work but I am climbing for myself on my time.

[@bwrightaway2877]

Good stuff

[@fatuglybiker]

Thank you for this man.

[@ClimbingArborist]

You're welcome!

[@jonh9561]

Knowledge and experience will overcome fear (for most, although not all), but always be cautious and listen to your instincts. Back when I was contracting and we had something difficult to deal with on the next workday, we used to get prepare for it by what I use to refer to as 'taking the edge off' the day by getting fully prepared e.g. doing all the daily vehicle, machinery and equipment maintenance and refuelling done etc the night before so that come the big day, all we had to do was load up and drive to site. This allowed us to be fully focused on the job in the knowledge that everything else was taken care of. Take care of yourselves and when things are about to get difficult, 'take the edge off' it by being as fully prepared as you can be.

[@ClimbingArborist]

👍

[@garyj6223]

@@ClimbingArborist I'm in a bit of a predicament with my current situation I started climbing around 2017 and fell in love with it and progressed quickly into a proficient climber and had no major anxiety or overthinking, but sometime around 2021 I was running my own business at the time I started getting really stressed out out and depressed, eventually i started e getting anxiety while climbing and decided to close my business. I quit tree work for about 2 years and I just started a new job, And my worst fear is a reality, I thought I could hop right back into it with no problem, But I'm having major anxiety and second guessing everything, It's like I lost my instinct for rigging and overthink everything I do. I find it it difficult to get comfortable work positioning. It's really getting me down and effecting my job performance, And i'm actually far more scared in a tree than I was when i first started. I'm not planning on giving up. I just really hope it's something I can learn to cope with.

[@michaelsukut6101]

Been doing this a good little while and there's times I still get that fear or the butterflies. Stay safe up there guys.

[@matthogue1386]

This video really speaks to me. I'm a P/T wildland firefighter, also a volunteer EMT, nothing ever bugs me. I started a tree service as I've always dreamed of having a tree co! I did a lot of things on the ground for a long time, until an elm was caught by the wind and ripped a powerline off (incredibly loud, and utterly terrifying, would NOT recommend) so I decided it was time to learn to climb with help from a local community college program. To this very day, I still get utterly terrified to do anything with maples or anything with a large spread, and I have a lot of trouble getting higher than 25 feet. I feel better knowing that I'm not defective, but it's rather just part of the learning experience. Thank you. If I'm ever in your area on a deployment, I'd love to shake your hand.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Thanks you brother, reach out if ever you are in the area

[@ripoffrecords]

Mostly fear comes from the unknown which is natural and levels up your awareness / caution. tbh the equipment I can trust, especially if a simple climbing system because it's rated and tested, maintained and checked. Complex climbing system to me means I have to think more about more links in the chain therefore I prefer less being more and then I can concentrate more on what I am doing and a tree species structure / integrity. I think the more you learn about different tree species, habit and structure and weaknesses the the less unknowns and you make better decisions. I like arboriculture because you assess every movement you make every second your mind is really working overtime and constantly learning. There is no sleeping at the wheel in arboriculture. Every job presents a different challenge and requires you to be wide awake. When I 1st started training I had a fear of heights, I still have a fear of heights especially on a ladder being that its the most dangerous tool there is but I've LEARNT to control fear on a rope because its more about trusting your abilities and what you know and the more you know the less unknowns. Climbing really challenges you to trust in yourself. Professional fishermen say similar "you'd be mad to go out there without some sense of fear" because fear is recognizing the dangers and then applying caution / hazard management.

[@TonyMontgomery18]

My very first proper tree climb I used a fishing pole to cast over a canary pine branch 50 feet up the bare trunk (I measured, I don’t exaggerate), used the fishing line to pull a throwline over, and then my rope. Completely self-taught, working on my family’s property, had never even spoke with anyone who knew tree climbing. Had studied my gear well and practiced a couple times on a little tree where my feet were maybe 10-12 feet above ground. That’s it. Drank on a Friday night, woke up Saturday and lying in bed had the idea to try the fishing pole (no BigShot or other fancy gear), and just got up and started doing it. Within a couple hours I had my rope in place and just started climbing. I brought a zipline up, my little Echo chainsaw, and started cutting good-size dead branches ~2-4” diameter. From there I got a line over another branch 15ft above me (65ft high), transferred to 2nd rope, climbed higher and got the rest of the dead branches out. Of course it was a little crazy going up that high my first real climb, and trusting myself and my gear and the branches, but mostly I thought it was fucking awesome!! I took my time, had proper arborist equipment, paid 100% attention to everything, and everything went pretty perfect ….as have my other occasional tree projects since then, including cleaning a big, wide 100ft pine tree, using redirects and zigzag to walk out on branches, and removing a 65ft eucalyptus (20” trunk at chest height), a bad leaner with a long bare smooth trunk at such a crazy angle that I couldn’t use spikes (not that I really know how to use them anyway), long story. Oh….and these trees and most others all had stuff below so I couldn’t just cut & let the pieces drop. To be honest, I did a cleaner job than the expensive tree services ever did when my family had to pay before I learned. So anyway, nothing wrong with fear, but also imo nothing wrong with having spunk and spirit and guts and smarts and having a great time with this stuff, loving every minute of it 😁

[@ClimbingArborist]

Awesome buddy, thanks for sharing your story

[@TonyMontgomery18]

@@ClimbingArborist ....and the reason I'm able to do this stuff is thanks to the internet, youtube, and in particular a few choice, top-quality (imo) channels like yours. I really appreciate you having the integrity to thoroughly learn your craft, and creating such great videos and sharing with everyone. I think you have great calm, intelligent energy, and your chill, practical vibe helps me absorb the information. Thank you!!!

[@MrEvanb93]

I learned using 2 lanyards. I still climb with 2 lanyards. It gives me piece of mind an better work position sometimes.

[@logger-ke5tx]

We've all been there, as a new climber i was Sometimes really afraid and the first times i climbed in spurs i wanted to quit my Job :D

[@jackshort2033]

I still hate them, five years in. I will do just about anything to avoid using them.

[@logger-ke5tx]

@@jackshort2033 for me there was the point where i really learned to Climb them..The geometry so you dont spur out as quickly and to get comfortable..from this point i really like them as much you can Love spurs ..thats because you have so much possibilities to position yourself and have a nice secure stand..

[@tymesho]

on any take down, they are a MUST!

[@scotttam7491]

Oh man il never forget taking my first large top in a white pine im on the east coast USA may not be as high as west coast but still it was 120ft an took prob 40 ft top omg the sway back the height just everything wow it never gets old

[@ClimbingArborist]

I feel you, I can't imagine there is a single climber out there that doesn't get an increase in adrenaline when they are about to take the top out

[@michalridzon2794]

Hi. I started in tree care this april. I am coming from sport climbing, so the movement on its own in height and 3D is not scary. What I am always concerned about is the anchor quality. If you do proper bolted sportclimb you have very likely som quickdraws as „back up“. On the tree, you got your anchor and that‘s it. No matter how good your gear is, your anchor needs to be better😁.

[@joshlower1]

Then you don't know how strong trees are.

[@joshlower1]

They are much stronger then any rock climbing anchor you can show me.

[@jimyuill6345]

Very similar for me. No fear of heights if I'm tied in to something I trust. I'm fairly new, so I don't have a good understanding of how small a stem is safe to climb on. I can get scared climbing small stems. I recently climbed a dying ash, and that made me nervous, as they are famous for breaking. Many guys won't climb them. kzbin.info/door/GzW2colx_5ISb11J6dYbcA

[@michalridzon2794]

@@joshlower1 that is quite an overstatement or oversimplification, i would say. Sure, take a healthy 150 years old quercus robur (we did some minor work on one of those on tuesday) with a clearly defined middle where you can place your anchor in the decent sized limb union…one could do some comparisons to glued titanium bolts with 30kn MBS. If you consider on the other hand betula pendula or aesculus hippocastanum and you want to place your anchor somewhat higher in the tree…it ist not Quercus anymore. The tree choice was due to my location in central europe. Thanks

[@davidvanleeuwen3274]

Thanks a lot. That's helpful. Brilliant to add the the carabiner that is allowed to fail in an emergency

[@ClimbingArborist]

Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for the comment

[@markprzekurat]

I was hoping to hear more about that cottonwood tree..... quite an experience!

[@ClimbingArborist]

The video of the Cottonwood job will be up on Sunday, and hopefully me and the guys will do a podcast about it because it was a crazy one, that's for sure

[@jonnyhaha7392]

Honestly I never even thought about it, I was just so excited to finally put a belt on, tie in and go for it. Then again I’ve always been comfortable with heights and loved climbing things throughout my childhood and teenage years. I can understand how people would be afraid at first,It was super awkward and weird, especially as you mentioned, getting used to positioning for a cut. It’s all about putting trust in your gear. The only time I felt fear was when my Blake’s hitch started slipping a little after retying it to advance my position. I had my flip line luckily.. regardless, it was scary.

[@brotherlove100]

"Give it a year", excellent advice for this career. And that's a year of climbing, not just being around it.

[@billthebushman551]

Good insight 👍

[@ClimbingArborist]

Glad you think so! Much appreciated

[@forzajuve4845]

awesome video ..not everyone in the industry is concerned with helping others Improve..too much importance can be placed on getting the job done quickly

[@theoutdoorangler1173]

I seem to always get scared right when I reach my tie in point

[@golopeters1152]

Same with me :-D

[@need100k]

Are you free climbing up to that point?

[@650GSF]

i have been experiencing some fear, back here in the UK, I am doing some DIY tree work, I had elven bloody tree's in my garden, the experts have done a lot of the work, but I am trying to save a few quid now, I have a massive Beech tree to tackle, and a second beech that's not so wide, and a birch tree, that has had better days, attempting the birch at the moment, got a few branches off, probably about 25 feet up, it has some tricky branches with the way it's grown, I think the professional would probably even say its a tricky one. got a climbing rope and a cheap harness, and Lanyard and just got a ISC rope wrench, and trying to learn how to use it, that's going to come into play for the big Beech tree, kind of fun and exciting learning how to do it, but definitely scary at times.

[@stephenmidkiff]

After all these years when training I'm often asked how to stay comfortable up high under pressure. I think the best way to work through fear without complacency is by keeping your mind three tasks ahead of what you're doing while you focus on the moment. It may seem distracting but what is fear? Our brains perform this task seamlessly with second nature while walking...

[@playablancapalmsnpines6791]

I climb skinny palm trees. There great to climb there like elastic bands. But in high winds you get a 10ft sway which can b scary 😨

[@1neAdam12]

I hated pruning palms. Especially the giant canary date or queen.

[@playablancapalmsnpines6791]

@@1neAdam12 They certainly hurt if you get spiked I prefer the tall Washingtons but even they have branches like rip saw blades have had a fair few hanging out my arms

[@1neAdam12]

@@playablancapalmsnpines6791 My biggest complaint is all the filth that comes from them. 90° weather + 90% humidity Florida summers make for a really dirty prune, everything sticks to your sweaty clothing. Did I mention the 1000 Palmetto bugs crawling across your face and down your clothing? You know, stuff like that.

[@playablancapalmsnpines6791]

@@1neAdam12 Got 4 Washingtonslined up for Friday and forecast is rain 🌧 n hight wind but there unshaven so easy climbing the bark is so rough and tough you can literally climb them without spikes but will be rock and roll at the top

[@1neAdam12]

@@playablancapalmsnpines6791 Here, check this dude from Mexico. He uses all the most efficient techniques for palm work. kzbin.info/www/bejne/sJavgoeMq754lZo

[@chris4charity191]

Dude how do you look younger now than your vids from 9 years ago 😆 🤣....no seriously, thank you for taking the time and effort into these informative videos. Massive appreciation for you! Getting into tree work for fun, don't need the money but I've got to conquer my height issues

[@ClimbingArborist]

🤣🤣 I’ll take that kind compliment. Conquering the fear comes with time in the harness and getting used to the trees and the movement

[@Manropesaw]

So true

[@AverageHouseHusband]

Important thing to be aware of fear can cause mistakes.

[@brendanclough3820]

I can across from a long background in rope access so harness, rope, height etc was second nature to me....working for the first time in a 60m poplar, rigging out big pieces was both utterly terrifying and truly exhilarating

[@LTawesomesauce]

Definitely been in some cottonwoods well over 100ft as well. I think it's more common in the northwest than most people think

[@tymesho]

Fear when first starting tree work is normal, FEAR, after being expierienced is even better, because you know why to be afraid. You've seen enough to know when, and all of that knowledge is lived. A heathy dose will keep you alive. NEVER second guess yourself! We all know what it takes to do things safely, (those with enough training) Be you. Know your limitations. Eventually there's going to be a tree(s) that will test that, It's up to you to concur that challenge. Finally, how you accept that challenge will define you as a professional.

[@treemands]

Yawn...always second guess yourself. Play out every worse case scenario.

[@vincentmilka2924]

This helped me a lot thank you, ive been climbing for about 6 months, and im still scared to death of slipping off a branch lol

[@woodystreeservicePNW]

I finished my first rigging job today 4th job ever and I was honestly so scared on my first couple climbs but it is something you get used to

[@forzajuve4845]

for me, limb walking was tough on some limbs ,as a rookie...it was all because I didn't keep in mind how important it is to keep my climbing line taut at all times

[@joshlower1]

I know they are hard for me too

[@kauairootsohana]

The discovery of slowness

[@jeromelouis6339]

I was fine with my climbing course in college, it wasn't until I spar polled a skinny spruce and I started to feel the sway, that was a little unnerving haha.

[@ClimbingArborist]

That happens to us all 😃

[@raytyre750]

I started as a grunt on the line crew and climbed my 1st pole with a couple of days on the job. It was a 65 footer and in those days we free climbed everything. I was scared to death. After over 40 years of climbing poles and trees about the only thing I'm scared of is getting shark bit in the Gulf of Mexico.

[@PeterDrinnan]

It is funny that I never feel afraid until I hear other climbers talk about their own fear. I operate a lot safer than I did a long time ago so that gives me confidence. If the primary focus is safety and forming good habits, the danger decreases over time.

[@mikemcclane2440]

Yes.

[@garden4wildlife781]

Was using a MEWP an option for the cotton woods? Or was it too high?

[@ClimbingArborist]

Not an option in this case unfortunately

[@Derek-qd3lx]

My first climb was mandatory for a paycheck😄. The climber quit 2 hours prior, so the boss said, "If you want to get paid today, get your ass up the that tree." I picked up the old Buckingham saddle (that was many sizes to big) and went at it. It was a long leaf pine with a crazy dog leg. About 30ft up it dog legged which seemed at the time like a full 90 degree. By the end of the 6 hour endeavor that now would be maybe 2 hours, I experience uncontrollable legs spasms, cramps, anxiety, and the thought of giving up. But, even when I slipped and hung under the dog leg like a monkeg;Breathing uncontrollably, and close to panic,I never gave up. I climb for that reason and that reason alone. The challenge of overcoming obstacles, having somewhat control of the situation, and pushing myself to a level that many would surrender to is why I do it. Climbing is the one thing in life where I can rise above the fear and grow mentally strong for what life throws. 💪

[@MartinHansefiction]

Where can I buy the little arborist hanging in the background?

[@TheTreeGuy877]

I finally trust my gear, now i dont trust the trees. I know you can climb wood as big as your wrist or preferably 4 inch diameter but i get real worried the tree is going to fail when im at the top. Madrones and cedars get me the worst

[@danielbargas3377]

I’ve been climbing for 5 years and I still get nervous when ever it’s a sketchy predicament or you’re on dead/dying tree. This old guy I contract climb for who has been doing it 30 years said when you’re no longer phased doing this job it’s time to quit

[@dprevish100]

I am only in my 2nd year, so pretty new. I hate climbing populus trees in general, cottonwood especially. The strength of the limbs is so weak by nature, just adds to my concern

[@nathanskelton1401]

Im a cert 3 arborist in Australia been a working full time for 4 years and customers always ask me if I get scared climbing i always say yes because the day were im not scared is the day something will go wrong

[@AshInTrees]

Hey Dan, I don't have fear of climbing most of the time, but I do have some anxiety around my first climbing comp coming up in about a month. I'm climbing on my free time (and at work) to try to prepare, but I'm somewhat concerned I'll be dead last and look like an idiot in front of a crowd. How experienced should a person be before they consider a competition? I've only climbed a few dozen times total.

[@ClimbingArborist]

The best thing to do is not have any expectations for the comp. Be ok with the thought of coming last. Set the ego to one side. Compete at the comp, and then whatever the result, I promise that you will leave having learned so much more than you ever could at a 2 or 3 day climbing course. Just watch others, ask questions, ask for advice, and soak it all up. Just don't let the thought of embarrassing yourself hold you back, there is so much to be gained.

[@iannewman20ify]

How'd u get on 🤔

[@jirajira2872]

I'm more scare of cutting big trunk and in all sort of weird forms. Took me months to build up a courage 😅

[@rrssmooth6643]

Not the climbing part, just the falling part. As long as I feel I am doing the right things, I feel fine.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Great stuff

[@IanBenedict]

Moderate-strong winds still freak me out, but I trust all my gear even if I fall a little bit

[@need100k]

I was 60' (measured) up in a coconut tree that had several hundred pounds of coconuts on it and was leaning, and just as I got into position to start cutting a sudden strong wind hit and kept blowing for a few minutes. Loved it.

[@XxtwichedxX]

This may sound crazy but, at least for me; rec. Climbing gives me really bad anxiety but when I climb for work it's awesome for me. Money makes me extra bold I suppose.

[@jrgenrasmussen8840]

I say .dont be fast be alive. Great video

[@robertalger6407]

Gotta ask how you got the miniature Dave

[@vangoing]

It's a given..Fear keeps you sharp in important situations imo. Most likely why the majority of accidents happen when some mundane task is being employed. DONT BE COMPLACENT. That's a general comment, not personal....

[@chrisconner6446]

It was never really the gear that concerned me. It's the unknown variables hidden in what ever medium your climbing. It's the same deal on rock . Calculated risk management , and redundancy systems are key.

[@matthewarena749]

I’m still a fairly new climber. Been climbing for about a year. I think my fear comes from not knowing what to do when I’m up in the tree. Like I can climb and move around but the cutting and the rigging and what will happen. I was hardly trained, just some friends hollering at me. Other wise self taught so I’m still trying to figure out the proper methods and how to actually work.

[@tymesho]

Mat, you need a mentor right away. 'self taught' is no way to learn tree work, look for a better company.

[@matthewarena749]

@@tymesho that’s what I’m trying to find. A lot of companies don’t want to pay for the training bc it’s too slow and not enough work getting done. That’s what they told me on an Interview last week

[@tymesho]

Matthew, I strongly suggest you stay as a groundie until you gain confidence with a power saw and learn techniques needed to be safe/precise. Any company that wants you to climb right away is not worth working for! More than likely they don't carry proper insurance. Trust me, from what you are saying, eventually you will get injured! Without proper training, there's no way you will EVER acquire the confidence needed to perform the job, and keep your behind safe. I wish you well~

[@matthewarena749]

@@tymesho thank you for the advice. I’m going to keep practicing and familiarizing myself. I know a couple retired climbers that might be willing to help me. But seriously thank you for the advice it means a lot brotha.

[@tymesho]

Matthew, I seriously wish I could be the one to bring you along.... Best advice, learn your power saws inside and out, KNOW all of your knots, and understand the weight of the wood you're dealing with. If you are serious, you're going to find an old timer willing to help, most tree guys are. Tips: use quality equipment/always be comfortable before you make a cut/treat your groundies with respect, they are the folks that will keep you safe! Theres not a tougher, more satisfying job than being an arborist. The very best thing? You're outside ALL DAY, and for myself, that's what I loved most! Matthew/BEST!

[@theronwinsby]

16 years old, my dad said climb that tree and top it. I was frozen about 25 feet up. I thought NO WAY! The other climbers were watching. But after a few more trees I became used to it.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Great to hear buddy, most of us go through those exact same experiences

[@theronwinsby]

Trust your gear. Know your gear.

[@Juliana-xb7lq]

i just have absolutely no fear of heights and my father finds it really funny update: did a shit ton of limb walking today and zipped out while barely missing the buckthorn below, had way too much fun and want to climb again already, even though it's only been 4 hours

[@need100k]

Don't ever become overconfident or cocky. Never think you're too good to make a fatal mistake.

[@forzajuve4845]

little mishaps in the tree can make your day horrible..like your friction knot drifting towards your tie in at the harness causing you to lose that important space on the rope between your climbing line tie in point and your harness tie in point...very difficult to undo that friction knot if you don't have a comfortable part of the tree to be able to get your weight off the rope to retie the knot

[@tymesho]

TRUST YOUR GEAR.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Yep, that is the key

[@TimberTrainer]

Defects in the tree is probably the worst thing to have to deal with. You never know how strong it is, how the hinge will work, or how much it weighs.

[@earthsskin]

Good

[@derpherpp]

i remember i got scared after i haven't climbed for months.

[@gewizz2]

Is there a way of climbing a tree with a basic thing? Rather than all the gear.

[@ClimbingArborist]

Yes, just use the most basic hitches on your rope and lanyard. We have videos of a simple tree ascent, body thrusting with basic equipment etc, go and look at those in our video library

[@gewizz2]

@@ClimbingArborist i can not find the video, i live around many tall trees, and often would like to be able to get up into the canopy, and also haul my bicycle up into the tree so its not just on the ground, im not going to do this, but i dream of being able to have just a sement of rope, and minimal stuff, and be able to dwell in the canopy.