I would say start leading at the gym to get a handle on clipping, belaying etc. Get a book for sure and learn as much as you can, I did a 2 day course focussed solely on gear placement and building belays and anchors, Even after I'd read the books and thought I knew it, I learnt alot. I'd definately suggest a course... You can always learn alot from seconding with an experienced leader too, You can see what they have placed, where and how. When I first started I'd plug gear into the walls at ground level, take time wiggling them round and finding the best possible placement.
Good luck, be safe.. |