If you’ve ever watched someone scale a climbing wall and thought, I’d love to give that a go, there’s no reason not to. You don’t need to be super strong, fearless or an experienced adventurer to get started.
Climbing can be challenging, of course, but it’s also great fun and something you can build up at your own pace. Whether you’re looking for a new way to get active, want to challenge yourself or simply fancy trying something completely different, this beginner climbing guide will help you get started.
Find your way up at The XC
There’s no single way to get started with climbing, which is good news if the thought of immediately tackling a huge wall sounds a little intimidating. If you’re new to climbing, we offer a range of experiences designed to make climbing for beginners fun, accessible and easy to get into.
Rock climbing taster session
This is a great introduction for anyone who wants to experience climbing for the first time. Available for adults, children and families, these sessions give you the chance to try climbing with an instructor on hand to guide you. You don’t need previous experience, and it will give you a chance to see if climbing is for you before committing to something more regular.
1-2-1 climbing session
If you’re feeling a little nervous or would prefer more individual support, you can also book a 1-2-1 climbing session. With an instructor focused on helping you, you can learn at your own pace and build confidence as you go.
Bouldering
Bouldering is climbing without ropes on shorter walls, with large safety mats below. It’s a different kind of challenge that combines climbing with a bit of problem-solving. The routes might be shorter, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re easier. Bouldering is all about working out how to move from one hold to the next, testing your balance and finding a route that works for you. It can also be a great option if you like the idea of climbing but aren’t particularly keen on heights.
Fun Climb
Fun Climb offers another exciting and accessible way to try out climbing, and is suitable for anyone aged seven and over. You’ll take on a range of climbing challenges while connected to an automatic safety device. As you make your way up the wall, the system reels in the safety line, helping to keep it secure. When you’re ready to come back down, it lowers you gently, so you can focus on the fun of climbing rather than worrying about ropes.
Whichever option you choose, our instructors will be on hand to guide you through your experience. As your confidence grows, there’ll also be plenty of new challenges to take on. The climbing routes are updated regularly, so there’s always a reason to come back and try something different.
What should you wear
One of the best things about indoor climbing is that you don’t need to spend a fortune on specialist gear before you’ve decided whether you enjoy it. Here’s what to do – and what to avoid – before you arrive:
Do:
- Wear comfortable clothes that let you move freely. Leggings, shorts, joggers and a T-shirt or lightweight top are all good options.
- Choose something breathable. You’ll probably work up a bit of a sweat as you climb.
- Tie back long hair so it doesn’t get in the way while you’re climbing.
- Check what equipment you need before your session. Depending on the experience you book, climbing shoes and harnesses may be provided or available to hire.
Don’t:
- Wear anything restrictive that could make it harder to move comfortably.
- Leave jewellery on. Remove rings, bracelets, necklaces and other jewellery before you start.
- Worry about buying lots of specialist kit. You can try climbing first and invest in your own equipment later if you decide it’s for you.
Indoor climbing tips for beginners
You don’t need to overthink your first climb, but a few indoor climbing tips will help you feel more comfortable:
- Start with an easier route. There’s no prize for choosing the hardest wall on your first visit.
- Take your time. Climbing isn’t about rushing to the top. Pause, look around and work out where you’re going next.
- Use your legs. You don’t have to pull yourself up with your arms alone. Your legs can do a lot of the work.
- Listen to your instructor. They’ll explain what you need to know and help you get the most from the session.
- Don’t compare yourself to everyone else. Everyone starts somewhere, and the person flying up the wall will have had a first day too.
Climbing etiquette: keeping it fun for everyone
Like any shared activity space, climbing comes with a few simple rules of etiquette. Knowing these climbing basics will help you feel more comfortable and make sure everyone can enjoy their session.
- Give other climbers plenty of room.
- Avoid walking or standing underneath someone who’s climbing.
- If you’re bouldering, make sure the landing area is clear before you start, and don’t climb directly beneath or across another person’s route.
- Everyone progresses differently. Cheer people on, be patient and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re unsure about something. The climbing community is a friendly one, and a little encouragement can go a long way when someone is attempting their first climb.
- Most importantly, follow the safety guidance given by our experienced team.
Whether you’re climbing with an instructor or taking part in another session, guidelines are there to help everyone enjoy the experience safely.
The health benefits of climbing
Climbing can give you a surprisingly good all-round workout. It gets your body moving, challenges your muscles and can help improve balance, coordination and flexibility.
But the benefits aren’t just physical. Climbing also makes you think. Every route is a bit like a puzzle, encouraging you to work out where to put your hands and feet and how to reach the next hold. That combination of movement and problem-solving can make a climbing session feel very different from a traditional workout.
Then there’s the confidence boost. Reaching the top of a wall that looked intimidating from the ground is a pretty satisfying feeling. And the next time you climb, you might find yourself going a little higher, trying a different route or tackling something you wouldn’t have considered before.
Ready to give climbing a go?
If you’ve been thinking about trying something new, climbing could be the adventure you’re looking for. You don’t need experience, expensive equipment or superhero upper-body strength, just a willingness to have a go.
So, pick your challenge, take a deep breath and book your first climb. You might surprise yourself with how far you get.
