1. Know the Different Forms
Climbing is a sport that can take many different forms. You can go all out with all the rappelling gear, ropes, pegs and harnesses. Alternatively, you can go barehanded, using your hands, feet and know-how. You can climb a simple hill with friends and go for a picnic on top of gently rolling hills, or take on a sheer cliff, making a stand with your flag on top of a mountain. Before joining a climbing expedition, find out what kind of trip you'll be taking. Obviously you find quite different requirements for each kind of climbing experience. However, basic physical requirements are similar for vertically moving up nature's slopes.
2. Climbing Just for Sport
Spot climbing best serves climbers who like to tackle the high trails that already have been traversed. On these trails, the climbing pegs are permanently in place for the climbers to hook their lines. Sport climbers typically climb with other climbers who can help with lines and be there for emergencies. Solo climbers, on the other hand, climb alone and take all the risks inherent in being alone. Be aware that many more accidents are recorded by solo climbers than any other kind of climbing technique. Speed climbing offers climbing techniques for the extreme athletes, who are always looking for the next big challenge. Speed climbers sometimes climb in competition against other climbers or just to beat their previous time.
3. Bare Bones
Climbing without any ropes or pegs, using just your bare body against the rock surface, is called bouldering. Boulderers typically climb no more than 15 or 20 feet and keep a spotter on the ground below in case they get into trouble. Bouldering involves finding a short route, maybe with unusual or challenging characteristics and finding a way to get up and around the obstacles. It's not about endurance, so much as it is about technique.
4. Prepare With Training
No matter what kind of climbing you do, you will have to have well-developed and healthy arms, shoulders and hands. While your feet and legs are involved in the sport, they are merely along to keep you steady and balanced. Your upper body strength and fitness will be put into action. Develop lean upper body muscles and strong abs so you will be prepared for the climb.
5. Learn the Ropes
While climbing can be a fun and strenuous sport, it also can be very dangerous. New climbers are encouraged to take lessons and to begin climbing with guides and in groups. Indoor climbing walls can be found everywhere and are a good place to begin. Try climbing using someone else's gear to see if you even want to pursue some loftier goals.
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