How To Rock Climb

Learning how to rock climb can be difficult, but it is also fun. Rock climbing is a great way to get exercise and to strength train. There are different types of rock climbing, but they all have the same goal, to get to the top. Rock climbing can be done indoors or outdoors. Outdoor climbing offers climbers the chance to change scenery, find new or different routes and to just be outside. Indoor climbing is a more controlled environment. Indoor climbing gyms have all of the ropes ready for the climber, so the only gear needed is a harness, shoes and chalk bag.  Outdoor climbing can require much more gear depending on the type of climbing, how long it will take and what route is being used. These are most of the styles of climbing used:

• Aide Climbing
• Sport Climbing
• Traditional Climbing
• Top Rope Climbing
• Bouldering
• Freestyle
• Lead Climbing
• Solo Climbing
• Mixed Climbing
• Simul Climbing
• Solo Aide
• Scrambling
• Free Soloing

Traditional, bouldering and sport climbing are the easiest ones to learn at when learning how to rock climb. There are also many types of gear to learn about.  When a person is serious about learning how to rock climb there are a few things they should first do.

1. Take a Climbing Class. Climbing courses are offered by professionals through outdoor companies and mountaineering shops. A course will familiarize the climber with safety, gear, proper climbing techniques and a safe practice route.
2. Get Climbing Shoes. To do any kind of climbing, a good pair of comfortable climbing shoes are needed. The shoes make all of the difference in the way the climber is able to stick to the rock.
3. Get a Harness. Bouldering and any kind of free-soloing climbing do not require a harness. Any other kind of climbing will need one in order to be able to tie up to a rope. The harness should be comfortable while fitting snugly around the mid section and the thighs, it should not cut off all circulation.
4. Buy a Chalk Bag. A chalk bag and climbing chalk are often used in climbing, not a necessity but highly recommended. The chalk will help to keep the hand from sweating and slipping of off the rock face.
5. Find a Climbing Partner. A climbing partner is needed for most types of climbing. They can be found over the internet, on postings at outdoor shops or through other friends. A partner is good for a beginning climber to help them perfect their technique and learn about the climbing world in general.
6. Climb Often. Like any sport, climbing a lot is needed to learn how to climb well. Going once in a while will not help to excel at the sport. It requires a certain amount of dedication and ambition to become a good climber.