About Rock Climbing

Rock climbing can take place both indoors and outdoors. Outdoor rock climbing usually takes place on natural rock formations on mountains, cliffs, or boulders. Many climbers use various equipment such as helmets, harnesses, and gloves to protect themselves from harsh conditions and rocks. Indoor rock climbing includes an artificial climbing wall made up of handholds and footholds that are similar to outdoor rock climbing formations. For many, it’s up to their preference and what they enjoy more when it comes to choosing a rock climbing type.

1. It’s Not Only Physical

Although climbing is a physically demanding sport, mental focus and concentration are big factors. Climbers have to think about the way they plan their movements and the most efficient route. With rock climbing walls, there are many different routes and difficulty levels. Climbers must figure out ways to efficiently climb, thinking about placements and body movements. This requires a lot of mental focus, strategic thinking, and analyzing.

2. Climbing Lingo

In climbing, there are many lingos and phrases used by fellow climbers. Here are some commonly used words that you might hear as a beginner climber. 

Beta – Refers to the method or techniques a climber uses for a climb. Often, each person’s beta will be slightly different based on their strengths, weaknesses, and preferences.

Belay – To keep a climber from falling too far. It usually includes the rope, anchors, belay device, and the belayer (person who helps stop the fall). Used in rope climbing such as top-rope and lead climbing. 

Crux – Refers to the most difficult move or sequence in a climb. 

Dyno – Used as an abbreviation of “dynamic”.  These are dynamic movements where you use momentum to lunge or leap for holds that are far apart.  

Flash – To complete a climb or problem on the first try.

3. Benefits of Rock Climbing

If you’re interested in rock climbing or are just starting out your journey, you should definitely consider all the benefits it has for your body and wellness!

Increase Physical Fitness: Rock climbing is an exhilarating activity that helps to increase your physical fitness by requiring physicality and mobility in doing challenging routes. It’s known to improve strength in your arms, core, and back as well as your lower body.

Balance and Coordination: Climbing can improve your balance and coordination while challenging your ability to navigate and maintain stability on uneven rocks and holds. It tests your skills by various routes with different difficulty levels.

Mental Focus: Mental focus is a skill that you gain as you start climbing regularly. It’s an important factor especially while you’re climbing, and it brings out your problem-solving and strategic thinking skills. You learn how to face and analyze different routes using your body movements. 

Overall, rock climbing is a great sport with many beneficial factors that can significantly improve your overall physical well-being. If you are considering starting a climbing journey, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the sport to fully take on that climb and most importantly, have fun doing it!