Rock climbing is an excellent and diverse sport that offers countless benefits. From being an enjoyable activity to staying fit, it also has an amazing community. But for those new to the sport, it can be daunting to know where to begin as a rock climber. That’s why I’m here to help you feel more comfortable and confident in your gym, so you know you’re in the right place.
In this guide, we’ll cover some common terms that you may encounter in bouldering or rope climbing. Be sure to check out my post on climbing terminology for a more in-depth understanding. We’ll also explore what you’ll need to get started and share some tips and tricks to kickstart your climbing career.
Whether you’re a beginner in bouldering or rope climbing, these tips are designed to help you ease into the sport, providing you with the necessary advice to confidently begin your climbing journey.
What you’ll need
To get started and become a rock climber, you’ll first need to get some shoes (you can usually rent these as well, but they are horrible) I recommend the Scarpa Tarantula for beginners. Also, forget the ‘climbing shoes have to be un-comfy. Now this does have merit as you get better as tighter shoes help get on smaller foot holds, but as a beginner, you want something that fits snugly and is still comfy. Otherwise, you’ll be in pain the whole time.
As you progress a tighter more aggressive shoe will help, but as a beginner none of this is necessary. So just find something snug, comfy and affordable.
Secondly, you’ll need a chalk bag and some chalk. These can be bought at your gym, or an outdoor shop and can be picked up pretty cheaply. You don’t need anything special just some chalk and something to hold it in. If you want to get a cool one check out 8B Plus as they have interesting bags, but they aren’t needed.
Other than these two things, as a rock climber you may need a harness and a belay device if you are doing sport climbing so make sure to get a comfy harness that doesn’t rub anywhere and that you can comfortably wear for a few hours while you climb and belay. However, speak to someone at your gym to learn how to use these properly, most centres will offer training. As for bouldering no training is needed and you can head straight out to climb. Some gyms offer coaching for beginners I recommend this as it will help solidify all the basics.
Basic terminology
- Slab: A slab is a section of rock or wall that is on an angle usually less than 90 degrees.
- Overhang: An overhang is a section of rock or wall that leans outwards from the vertical.
- Dyno: A dyno is a dynamic move where a climber jumps or lunges for a hold that is out of reach.
- Static: A static move is the opposite of a dyno, where a climber moves slowly and precisely from one hold to the next without jumping or lunging.
- Arête: An arête is a sharp ridge of rock or wall that separates two faces.
- Cut/Cutting Cut lose/cutting lose: Cutting or cutting loose refers to releasing tension from a hold, usually to move to another hold.
- Flag: A flag is a technique used to maintain balance while climbing, where a climber pushes one leg out to the side while the other leg remains on the wall.
- Sandbag: Sandbagging is a term used to describe when a climb is graded lower than it actually is, making it more difficult than expected.
- Flash: A flash is a successful ascent of a climb on the first try.
- Beta: Beta refers to information about a climb such as the sequence of moves or the best way to tackle a particular section.
That’s just some basic terminology you may hear people say. For more, we have written a dedicated post on all climbing terms you may hear at the gym. Be sure to check it out if you can find what you want here.
Tips and Tricks to Become a rock climber
Push with your legs – your legs are a lot stronger than your arms are. Using your legs to push instead of pulling will make reaching the next hold easier and use less energy.
Use your toe – Most beginners will use the middle of their foot when climbing which can make you stuck. Using your toe on the hold instead will allow you to pivot on the hold to get into a better position.
Talk to other climbers and staff – All climbers are very helpful and willing to help. So make sure to ask them if you are struggling. This is the same for the staff at the climbing gym. They may be able to teach you things you didn’t know or give you a different way to look at the climb. This will also help you build up some climbing friends… oooh climbing friends.
Practice falling – It may seem a bit controversial because you don’t want to fall, but it is inevitable. This will increase confidence when pushing for harder climbs as you may be less afraid to fall.
Finally, have fun and don’t overthink it. To get better and more used to climbing, you just need to climb more, it’s that simple.
Conclusion
Enjoy the community feel of climbing. Climbing is a sport that has a great sense of dynamic and support. Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with fellow climbers and make some new friends along the way.
With these tips and tricks in mind, you’re now ready to take on the world of rock climbing and become a rock climber. So grab your gear, head to the gym, and start climbing!
Now you are a rock climber, if you are looking to transition into outdoor climbing, I have the post for you. Check out our guide on transitioning to outdoor climbing.
