Search Example

You Need To Know This If You Want To Master Bouldering

Are you ready to take on the exciting sport of bouldering? Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, these five essential tips will help you conquer any wall. Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that doesn’t require ropes or harnesses. Instead, climbers rely on their strength, agility, and problem-solving skills to navigate short, challenging routes known as problems. With the right mindset and approach, you can tackle even the toughest bouldering walls.

Another important aspect of bouldering is learning how to read the routes. Take some time to study the holds and plan your moves before starting your climb. Look for the most efficient path and try to anticipate any challenging sections. This will help you conserve energy and make progress on the wall.

Take it one step at a time and celebrate every small achievement along the way. With practice and dedication, you’ll soon find yourself tackling more challenging climbs and experiencing the thrill of bouldering to its fullest. So start with the basics, build a solid foundation, and enjoy the journey!

Group of climbers mapping out climbing beta for top rope climbing and bouldering

Asking for advice can save you a lot of time and frustration. Experienced climbers have likely encountered similar challenges and can provide valuable insights on how to overcome them. They may recommend specific techniques or give you pointers on foot placement, body positioning, or grip strength. By learning from others, you can progress faster and avoid common mistakes that beginners often make.

Remember that even the most skilled climbers were once beginners themselves. They understand the struggles and challenges you may face as you start your bouldering journey. Instead of feeling embarrassed or shy about asking for advice, embrace the opportunity to learn from those who have already mastered the sport. Bouldering is not just about physical strength; it’s also about mental agility and problem-solving skills. By seeking advice from others, you can develop a well-rounded approach to bouldering and improve your abilities in all aspects of the sport.

Taking a lighthearted approach to bouldering can also help to alleviate any fears or insecurities that may arise. It’s natural to feel nervous when trying something new, especially when it involves heights and physical exertion. However, if you allow yourself to become too serious, these fears can become overwhelming and hinder your progress. By embracing a more relaxed mindset, you can approach each climb with a sense of curiosity and excitement rather than anxiety. 

Remember that bouldering is a personal journey and that everyone has their own pace. What matters most is that you are enjoying yourself and challenging yourself in a way that feels right for you.

male and female climbers fist bumping after sending a bouldering route

Bouldering shoes need to be snug-fitting with a stiff sole to provide maximum support and grip on the wall. All our members of staff are extremely knowledgeable on climbing and will ensure that you get the right pair of shoes that meet these requirements. Furthermore, we can provide valuable advice on shoe maintenance and care. Climbing shoes are subject to wear and tear, and knowing how to properly clean and maintain them will extend their lifespan.

When it comes to bouldering, it’s easy to get caught up in the thrill of conquering difficult routes and reaching new heights. However, if you continuously avoid working on your weaknesses, you’ll find yourself plateauing and unable to progress further. It’s important to challenge yourself and push beyond your comfort zone. 

This may mean spending extra time practising specific moves or exercises that target your weaknesses. By doing so, you’ll not only improve in those areas but also gain a better understanding of your body and how it moves on the wall.

Working on your weaknesses in bouldering can be a humbling experience, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. As you see yourself making progress in once-challenging areas, you’ll gain a renewed sense of confidence and motivation. Additionally, by focusing on your weaknesses, you’ll be able to identify any imbalances in your body and work towards correcting them. This will not only make you a better boulderer but also help prevent injuries in the long run.

Remember, bouldering is a journey that requires dedication and perseverance. Don’t be discouraged if you initially struggle with certain aspects of the sport. Embrace your weaknesses as opportunities for growth and improvement. With time and practice, you’ll be amazed at how far you can progress. So, lace up your climbing shoes, grab your chalk bag, and join us at Awesome Walls – the sky’s the limit!

Ready to book your next climb? Click here for our UK walls | Click here for our Irish Walls

Eight weeks ago I was idly checking my social media when a friends post in our running group caught my eye.
‘I’m injured, does anyone want my Race Across Scotland place?’ As expected no one snatched up his offer as running 225 miles over Scotlands Southern Upland Way in under 100 hours appealed!
Funnily enough though a few people mentioned my name…
Whilst big epic running challenges are my thing, I felt with only six weeks notice and a lack of big training days, I wasn’t quite ready for such suffer fest.
I also had the slight complication that I had a 100 mile race two weeks before that one!

To cut a long story short I accepted the place, I only ran 40 miles of the 100 and arrived at Portpatrick on Friday the evening before the big race.

On Saturday 6am 163 of us set off heading East to push our bodies and minds to their limits.
As the miles clicked away we ate plenty and slept little but pushed on regardless.
Day 1, day 2, day 3 were a blur and eventually day 4 arrived.
Everyone was totally spent but with the finish line close (40+ miles) we needed to crack on and complete this epic journey.
Unfortunately many people had had to drop out along the course but 63 competitors pushed on.
After running for 85 hours and sleeping for less than 5 hours I eventually hit a pain barrier that tried to thwart my progress.
Blisters on four toes, the base of one foot and around both ankles brought me to a hobble/wobble!
I had a final nine miles to the finish and NOTHING was going to stop me. While I walked, hobbled, tripped and jogged, a few hardier runners passed me but we all had the same goal in mind.

I’m pleased to say that I crossed the finish line after 227 miles and 89 hours and raised an awesome £2100+ for Mind Charity (the JustGiving page is still open for donations https://bit.ly/DavesRAS24)

I had a good friend Dave Jones help me along the way with nutrition (pot noodles), kit (sweaty clothes) and encouragement (move it…). Without his tremendous support the outcome would not have been the same.

I’ve received so much positive support via emails, social media and personally that I can’t thank my supporters enough.

My years of climbing have taught me many things, but one of the most important things is ‘Stay Positive’.

Hope to see you at the climbing wall soon,

Dave Douglas