Starting rock climbing has never been easier! Climbing gyms are scattered worldwide, with multiple locations in major cities. But how do you actually start climbing? That’s easy!
Rock climbing is an adventurous activity that has grown so popular that it debuted in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Now that climbers have competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, it’s the perfect time to start rock climbing. Follow these three easy steps and see what it took for those Olympians!
Step 1.
Find a climbing gym!
The most accessible way to start rock climbing is in a climbing gym. It’s not impossible without it, but it’ll take a little more work. More on that below.
To find a rock climbing gym near you, type “rock climbing gym near me” into your preferred search engine. When choosing, note which gyms have ropes and which are strictly for bouldering.
(Bouldering is a style of climbing that does not require a rope and uses big foam mats as protection. A climber will reach around 10-12 feet and land on the mats if they fall.)
Bouldering gyms are great for beginner climbers because you only need shoes and some chalk to get started. If climbing that high scares you, don’t worry; you only have to climb as high as you want!
A rope gym will likely also feature a bouldering area but will include taller walls where climbers tie into a rope to keep them safe while they climb. Ropes require more gear and knowledge to do safely; therefore, bouldering is recommended for beginners!
If you don’t have a rock climbing gym near you, you can start climbing alone, but it can be dangerous. Look online for a local climbing community. Climbing is not just a sport. It’s a community. See if they’re open to letting you join during their next session!
Step 2.
Learn techniques!
While climbing can be intuitive, it’s different from climbing a tree. There are many nuances to learn about climbing, such as how to grip specific holds, counterbalance yourself, or even fall!
Learning these techniques is not just about mastering the sport but also about ensuring your safety and enjoyment.
Check out an Introduction to Bouldering class at your local climbing gym! Gyms are well-versed in teaching climbers basic movements, so they cater to beginners.
Another way to learn climbing techniques is to watch other climbers at the gym. Notice how they move their bodies when performing certain moves, how they move their feet and hands, and how they maintain body tension to stay on the wall.
YouTube will be your most outstanding teacher if you want to learn climbing techniques while lying in bed. While thousands of videos are online geared to teach climbing movements, check out the following popular climbing channels: Lattice Training – YouTube, Catalyst Climbing – YouTube, or Hannah Morris Bouldering – YouTube.
Step 3.
Get Some Climbing Shoes!
Rock climbing gyms typically offer rental gear such as shoes, chalk, and harnesses. Use rental gear until you decide that climbing is something you want to pursue! Not only will you save money on rentals in the long run, but you’ll also notice a difference between your personal pair and the shoes used by everybody else.
Once broken in, climbing shoes mold to your feet, so you’ll have a customized fit in your own pair compared to any rental shoe in the world. This personalization is part of what makes climbing such a unique and rewarding experience. Once you get your shoes, you’ll understand why you never return to rentals.
You will have a pair that fits your feet perfectly, and you won’t have to worry about hoping your size is available when you get to the gym. You won’t have to wear a pair that is too big and has holes in the toes!
Another advantage to getting your own pair of climbing shoes is choosing the style that suits you. Do you want some that are soft so you can feel the holds more? Something more stiff to give you a little extra support? You may wish for a moderate shoe designed to work well on various types of terrain! Understanding these features will help you decide when choosing your climbing shoes.
You’ll also notice how your footwork will improve because a fresh pair of shoes will have a significant edge to help you stand on smaller footholds. So, pick up a pair of climbing shoes after you’ve found your gym and learned some techniques!