Want to learn climbing but don’t know how to go about it? The experts from La Sportiva bring you everything that you need to know about climbing:

The Association of British Climbing Walls estimates that there are around one million people in the UK who climb regularly. Climbing has proven to be a fantastic sport that helps with mental and physical well-being. There are various benefits of rock climbing as well. It includes improved muscles, improved self-confidence, as well as a sense of belonging to the community. There are also communities that support and help each other while they learn climbing.

Different Disciplines to Start With

There are over 20 types of disciplines under climbing that has their own set of combinations. The following are the type of disciplines to try out before you choose one:

Trad Climbing

Trad climbing is the type of outdoor climbing where the player places their own protection as they climb. As difficult as it seems, it gets easy once you get the hang of it. Understanding ropes and assessment of risk is important to know before you start with your climbing process. There are also kits that are readily available once you learn what goes where.

Bouldering

One of the best disciplines to start with if you haven’t learned how to climb yet. It is a type of un-roped climbing that allows you to use your full body’s potential once you start climbing. You might also be thinking, ‘how is it possible to climb without ropes?’ Well, the answer is, bouldering is enjoyed without the use of ropes and at a low height over crash matting. It also does not require prior experience and helps you learn the basics very easily.

Sport Climbing

It is another type of rope climbing that requires the climber to scale tall walls. It is also important to take a look at the quickdraws before you start climbing. It is usually done with a partner or a belayer who will help pay out the rope while your start climbing. The partner or belayer also helps catch you if you fall.

 Where to Start?

For beginners, it is better to start indoors. It helps you learn more quickly and with proper guidance and assistance. There are various climbing walls popping all over the country.

The Association of British Climbing Walls can be very useful in finding the best place nearby where you can start. A simple search on Google will lead you to the page where you would be able to easily find the nearest climbing wall place.

A minimum of £10 can be expected to pay once you have chosen the place. Save up on rental costs and invest in a good pair of climbing shoes to keep your feet comfortable throughout the practice session. The La Sportiva Tarantula is a great pair of shoes to invest in if you are starting for the first time.

Hit the mats after you are done with the basics. It will allow you to get more experienced and open up to real-life challenges and adventures.

Transition From Indoors to Outdoors

Indoor climbing can be very fruitful for you to transition from indoor climbing to the outdoor climbing. It is also a good idea to see if there is a local guide that is available for you to practice. If your local indoor climbing classes offer outdoor classes as well, it will be helpful for you to transition easily.