1. Class is in Session
Taking a beginning rock climbing class is one of the best ways to safely introduce yourself to rock climbing techniques. Rock climbing schools offer courses ranging from half a day of instruction to week-long camps. Many gyms also offer beginning rock climbing classes. These courses will teach you the terms of various rock climbing holds and the situations in which they are used. Meeting other climbers is an added benefit to taking a rock climbing class.
2. Hit the Gym
Practicing on an indoor climbing wall is a great way to perfect rock climbing hand and foot techniques. Climbing walls are studded with artificial rocks called rock climbing holds. These holds mimic the types of surfaces found in nature. Climbing walls are beneficial because they provide climbers with a good representation of various sizes and shapes of holds, so climbers can practice different hand and foot techniques. Climbing walls tend to be safer for novice climbers than outdoor climbing because the walls are a controlled environment that are typically monitored by an instructor. Experiment while you're scaling a climbing wall. Your goal is to find the best grips for your strength and body type and learn how to handle various surface types.
3. Buddy System
If you have a friend who climbs, ask for some pointers. Go out for a day of climbing with the goal of learning as much as you can from your friend. You can learn a lot just by observing more experienced climbers, so pay attention to how your friend uses his hands and feet. Ask questions, especially about how to correctly use safety gear. Tell you friend to explain what he's doing and why.
4. Give Bouldering a Chance
Bouldering is a discipline of rock climbing that doesn't require any safety gear. Climbers who boulder rarely get more than 10 feet off the ground, so the focus is on technique rather than worrying about the rope system. Find a rock face and start scaling. Look for opportunities to use different foot placements and hand grips. Try moving across the rock rather than up it. Bouldering isn't without risks, so make sure you climb with a partner. Be aware that some public parks prohibit any form of climbing. Look for posted signs before you begin.
Member Comments