First time at the climbing gym? Tips for beginners

Klatring by Varuste.net / Toimisto-Jorma, 3.10.2024

Are you planning your first climbing sessions at the gym and wondering what gear you need and what activities you can do at the climbing gym?
Climbing is a versatile and fun sport suitable for all ages. In this article, we will go through what equipment you should consider buying and what you can rent if needed.
Additionally, you'll find information about courses available for beginners.
Climbing gyms generally offer two main activities:
Bouldering and rope climbing.
Bouldering:
Bouldering is climbing on low walls without a rope. It's a great way to start climbing because you don't need to master rope techniques. Safety is ensured with thick crash mats. Bouldering routes are short, physically challenging, and offer the opportunity to develop strength, balance, and problem-solving skills. There are routes of various levels available - beginners should obviously start with the easiest ones.

Rope Climbing:
Rope climbing uses a safety rope and harness. This type of climbing offers longer routes and requires belaying. Top-rope climbing is the most common method offered to beginners. The rope is already attached at the top, and a partner belays from below.

Lead climbing involves the climber taking the rope with them and attaching it to the wall during the ascent. This requires a bit more skill and experience.

Courses or Climbing Directly?
Many climbing gyms offer beginner courses where you can learn the basics of the sport safely.
Popular courses include:
Bouldering Courses:
These teach you the correct climbing technique and safety practices for bouldering. Bouldering is a convenient way to start climbing without worrying about ropes.

Top-Rope Climbing Courses:
In these courses, you learn the basics of using harnesses, tying knots, and belaying so you can climb with ropes safely.

Belaying Course:
This is essential if you want to climb (and belay) with ropes independently with friends. After the course, you may be granted a belay card, which certifies that you can belay safely.

EQUIPMENT: SHOULD YOU BUY OR RENT?
When heading to the climbing gym for the first time, you don't necessarily need to buy everything right away. Most gyms offer basic equipment rentals, but there are some items you might want to consider purchasing, at least after the very beginning.
Equipment commonly available for rent:
Climbing Shoes: Special shoes that allow for more precise footwork. Beginners may not want to invest in their own shoes right away, but can rent them initially to form an idea of what type of shoes might be most comfortable for them.