Many people buy their first pair of climbing shoes itching to get out and conquer that cliff. It’s best to take a step back and research basic information that will set you up for success the first time out on the rocks. Here are a few great tips to consider for beginners rock climbing.
1. Get the Right Climbing Gear
Brand new shoes can be torture your first time rock climbing. Just as with hiking boots, it takes some practice to get well-fitting shoes. Spend time in a gym or small local crag to break them in a bit, or better yet, borrow a friend’s shoes that are a bit worn in before buying your own. Just make sure someone experienced helps you pick the right shoe for your chosen style of climbing and your experience level. Stiffer soles with an easier fit are better for beginners and long multi-pitch climbs. Those tight slipper shoes are better for advanced climbers who are bouldering or powering up single pitch climbs.
Comfortable, close-fitting clothing is going to be a much better option than baggy jeans or other thick fabrics. Take into consideration that you will likely be in a seat harness for most the time at the climbing area. Loose, heavy fabric can bunch and bind, taking your mind away from the fun of mastering the route and building your skills.
2. Go with a Guide
Go with experienced friends, a climbing school, or a reputable guide your first time rock climbing. This will give you more information about the area, the climbs, and climbing technique in general. Fifty percent of climbing is all about safety. When climbing, you will be entrusting the safety of your life to your climbing partner(s). Invite people you know and trust to accompany you on your first adventure. Safety-conscious friends with a good sense of humor and patience are the best climbing buddies.
3. Use Your Legs
The best advice for beginners is to remember to use your legs. Muscles of the legs and glutes (butt muscles) are the strongest in the body and can act like a springboard to reach that seemingly unattainable next hold. The more you use your legs, the longer you’ll be able to climb.
4. Have a Sense of Humor
Some people may have an initial natural aptitude for the sport of rock climbing, then at some point throughout the day, they hit a wall — pun intended! Even though you may be in top shape for trail running, rock climbing uses muscles you never even knew you had. Eventually, due to a lack of technique and conditioning, you’ll be falling off the wall. Being able to laugh at yourself when you’re making mistakes or reaching exhaustion will encourage you to keep trying to get better every time you climb. Keep it light, don’t be too hard on yourself, and remember to enjoy the view from the top! The more you climb, the better you get.
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Featured Image from Hu Chen/Unsplash
