How to Begin Rock Climbing

Before you invest any money in the sport of climbing, start off by testing it out at a club with a climbing wall. Though the overall experience and needed skills will be different when you hit the outdoors, indoor climbing is a great way to understand the equipment, learn the basic techniques and find out if you even like the sport.

Once you’ve decided you want to commit some time (and money) to rock climbing, get yourself geared up—rock shoes, helmet, harness, rope and other devices. Since you’ll be hanging some distance in the air, this isn’t the area to scrimp, namely when it comes to your rope. Pick out a high quality article that is specific to climbing. Your rock shoes should be well-fitted so you can feel the rocks under your feet, and your harness should be snug to your body so it can work properly and protect you in a fall.

Learn the standard knots. There are six knots you should become familiar with before climbing on your own—Clove Hitch, Double Fisherman’s Knot, Figure-8 Follow-Through, Figure-8 on a Bight, Münter Hitch and Prusik Loop. Most of your clubs will be able to instruct you on these knots and where to use them.

Learn to belay. In top-roping, the easiest way to learn to climb, one person will climb while the other acts as a belayer. The rope extends, or hangs, from the top of the wall down to the belayer, where it is attached to this person through a belay device that allows for the belayer to support the weight of the other climber. It will be your responsibility, as the belayer, to keep the rope snug during ascent, descent and in case of a fall.

Use your hands and feet. This seems pretty obvious, but, as you begin to climb, you’ll begin to find how different your holds can be. The climbing wall is great place to start in learning the different holds you’ll need to make your ascent. From your whole hands (jugs) to your fingers (pockets) to just your tips (crimps), you’ll find out what it takes to get to the top. But let’s not forget about your feet, they’re attached to two of the strongest parts of your body—the legs. Proper placement of your feet in available footholds can take a great deal of your body weight of your arms.