Are you interested in learning how to get started at an indoor rock climbing gym? Maybe you want to work on your skill level before you start outdoor rock climbing. Maybe you want to test your own limits. Or maybe you just want to test yourself against the idea of climbing a mountain.
After all, why do you climb a mountain? Because it’s there.
To get started at a climbing gym, you need to know that it’s a great workout and that you can enjoy a fun time in a social atmosphere. Most large cities have a climbing gym or have fitness centers that feature climbing gyms. They even have classes for kids along with outdoor rock climbing courses.
You will need several weeks to work on your skills and it’s not something you are going to learn overnight. If you are not in great physical shape, you need to be prepared to invest some time in fitness and exercise as well as climbing.
To locate a climbing gym near you, ask at a local outdoor or sports activity store. They may have climbers on their staff or at least be able to recommend a good climbing gym for you to get started at.
When you have located the local gym or gyms, contact them and see if you can pay them a visit. Most gyms will offer packages for new students and returning ones. Classes offered should instruct you in how to tie in to a harness, the movement techniques you’ll need for climbing and crossing along a wall face, how to belay and more. The nice thing about classes is that you have an opportunity to get to know other climbers who are at your level of skill.
If you choose to join a climbing gym, that’ll be up to you. Most climbing gyms recommend a handful of visits before committing to membership. If you are experimenting and just wanting to take a class, many gyms will offer introductory classes that do not require a membership to take.
You will need to purchase some supplies to begin your climbing career. Some gyms provide these items for rental. But like a good pair of bowling shoes – you never know who’s been in them before you.
You may want to price the following:
- Climbing Shoes
- Chalk Bag
- Comfortable Workout Clothes
- Harness
Climbing can be physically demanding. If you have any health concerns or back issues, you should get a release from your physician before beginning any class on climbing. Many climbers enjoy the experience intensely and will climb as often as two or three times a week at an indoor gym and on outdoor climbs once or twice a month.
If you’re curious about climbing, check it out. The kid’s climbing courses also take into account age and skill level – and while accidents can still happen, the indoor climbing gym does offer a safer, more controlled atmosphere to tackle a new skill set in.