A Beginner’s Guide To Indoor Rock Climbing

Rock climbing can seem pretty intimidating — it has a reputation for being dangerous and extreme.

However, the sport is becoming increasingly popular and it’s not just for the risk-takers among us.

What Does Indoor Rock Climbing Look Like?

Indoor climbing gyms look kind of like big playgrounds. There are plastic “holds” drilled into the walls and the objective is to climb up a route that someone has created, or “set.”

Photo : Sabrina de Silva

Types of Indoor Rock Climbing

Take a minute to figure out what style of climbing sounds fun to you: - Bouldering - Top-roping - Auto-Belays - Lead climbing

What To Wear Indoor Rock Climbing

You should wear clothes that are athletic and comfortable. For your very first time at a gym, a good choice would be a pair of comfy pants that don’t restrict your movement.

Photo : Sabrina de Silva

Indoor Rock Climbing Gear

Typical indoor climbing gear includes a pair of climbing shoes, a harness (for rope climbing), and a chalk bag. Usually, gyms will have rental gear available.

Photo : Sabrina de Silva

Tips for Indoor Rock Climbing

Here are a few of my best tips for having a strong day at the climbing gym: - Technique & footwork - Keep “long arms” - Learn how to fall - Stretching with prayer hands

Indoor Rock Climbing Etiquette

There are a few rules you should keep in mind when climbing: - Don’t climb/walk in the fall zone - Don’t climb right next to someone - Watch your kids - Don’t hog a route

Photo : Sabrina de Silva

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