First time at the climbing gym? Tips for beginners

Szikla- és hegymászás by Varuste.net / Toimisto-Jorma, 3.10.2024

Are you planning your first visits to the climbing gym and wondering what gear you need and what happens or can be done at the gym?
Climbing is a versatile and fun activity suitable for all ages. In this article, we'll go over what equipment you should consider getting and what can be rented if needed.
Additionally, you'll find information on courses available for beginners.

Climbing gyms usually 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 since you don't need to master rope techniques. Safety is ensured with thick crash mats. Bouldering routes are short, physically challenging, and offer opportunities to develop strength, balance, and problem-solving skills. Routes are available for all skill levels - beginners should naturally start with the easiest ones.

Rope Climbing:
Rope climbing uses safety ropes and harnesses. 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 anchored at the top, and a partner belays from the ground.

In lead climbing, the climber takes the rope with them and clips it into the wall during the ascent. This requires more skill and experience.

Courses or Straight to Climbing?
Many climbing gyms offer beginner courses where you can learn the basics of the sport safely.
Popular courses include:

Bouldering Courses:
These teach proper climbing techniques 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 will learn the basics of using harnesses, tying knots, and belaying, allowing you to climb with ropes safely.

Belaying Course:
This is essential if you want to climb (and act as a belayer) with ropes independently with friends.
After the course, you may be issued a belaying card that certifies your ability to belay safely.

EQUIPMENT: SHOULD YOU BUY OR RENT?
When heading to the climbing gym for the first few times, you don’t necessarily need to buy everything immediately.
Most gyms offer basic equipment for rent, but there are a few things that may be worth getting, at least after the very beginning.
Equipment commonly available for rent:

Climbing shoes: special shoes that allow for more precise foot placement. A beginner doesn’t necessarily need to invest in their own shoes right away but can rent them initially and form an opinion on what kind of shoes would be most comfortable.

Harnesses: In rope climbing, you'll need a safe harness. As a beginner, you can rent a harness until you have a better idea of what type works best for you.

Chalk: Chalk helps keep your hands dry during climbing, preventing slippery grips from sweaty palms. Gyms usually have communal chalk available, often in large buckets you can use.

Equipment you should consider buying:

Climbing shoes:
If you catch the climbing bug, shoes are one of the first pieces of gear worth investing in: climbing shoes are personal equipment where fit is crucial. Having your own shoes will take your climbing experience to the next level.
Plus, it's nice to sweat into your own shoes.

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