Rock climbing is a challenging exercise that works all major muscle groups in the body and burns a lot of calories. According to RockClimbing.com, more than 102,000 outdoor rock climbing sites can be found around the world. Many gyms and fitness centers offer indoor rock climbing as well. With some training and equipment, kids and adults alike can enjoy this form of fitness.
Health Benefits
Rock climbing involves the help of a harness, pulleys and ropes to help you climb a rock wall. Rock climbing is a lot like solving a puzzle, giving your brain a mental workout as you figure out the best way to reach the top. Rock climbing also involves the use of all major muscle groups including those found in your hands, arms, legs, shoulders, back and abdomen. Whether for fun or fitness, rock climbing improves your strength, agility, flexibility and endurance.
Calories Burned
The amount of calories you burn during rock climbing depends on several factors, including age, weight, sex, the intensity level of your climb as well as how long you spend rock climbing. According to Harvard Health Publications, climbing a rock wall burns between 660 and 976 calories an hour, depending on your weight. Furthermore, rappelling down a rock wall burns between 480 and 710 calories an hour, also depending on your weight.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Many gyms and fitness centers feature an indoor rock climbing wall. The wall might contain widely dispersed, multicolored hand and foot grips for you to use while you climb up the wall. If you are inexperienced, before you are allowed to climb the wall you must take a beginner course that teaches you how to put on the safety harness as well as tie knots. Once you have passed the test, you can start climbing on the wall.
Outdoor Rock Climbing
Many gyms and fitness centers feature classes that teach how to climb outdoors. These courses are more intense and require having more knowledge regarding outdoor rock climbing equipment, rappelling, climbing techniques and outdoor safety. For the first outdoor excursion, many first-time rock climbers are paired up with a trained rock climbing professional and start off on an easier rock climbing location. As your fitness and rock climbing skills improve, you can start climbing without guidance.
References
- RockClimbing: The Largest Interactive Rock Climbing Destination Site for Climbers and Enthusiasts
- Alive; Rock Climbing; Tanya Tiessen; May 2006
- The Restored Church of God Ambassador Youth; Rock Climbing A Different Form of Exercise; Bradford G. Schleifer; September 2007
- Harvard Health Publications; Calories Burned in 30 Minutes for People of Three Different Weights; July 2004
- SportRock: Classes and Programs
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