Trying climbing for the first time may feel intimidating. Don’t worry! We’re here to share our climbing tips for beginners, giving you all the basic information you need to conquer any climbing challenge. For all newcomers to this amazing sport, it is essential to learn the basics of climbing, prioritise safety, and set yourself up with the right gear.
Whether you’re seeking an exciting new workout or a unique social activity, indoor climbing offers an adrenaline-pumping activity that we are almost certain you will love. So where should we start?
A Beginner’s Overview: Let the Fun Begin!
Climbing is as much about technique as it is about physical ability. So don’t worry if you haven’t quite got your first pull-up yet! You don’t need to be super physically strong to get started. The best way to kickstart your new climbing hobby is to go for a session at your local Awesome Walls Centre.
As a newbie, focus on enjoying learning the climbing lingo, mastering beginner-friendly routes, and discovering your favourite style, be it top rope, lead climbing, or bouldering. You could also go along to a social night and make new friends. Why not check out our women’s bouldering nights?
Safety First: We’ve Got Your Back!
If you’re not exactly best friends with heights but you are still keen to give climbing a go, that’s awesome!
Making sure that you are safe while climbing is our top priority. So pay attention during the induction session and soak up the knowledge from our friendly instructors and team members. They are there to keep you safe and ready to reach the tops of our walls.
Falling is part of everyone’s climbing journey. To get over your fear of falling, the best thing you can do is to practice deliberately falling. It sounds silly, but learning how to fall will help you to minimise injuries and help you to become a better climber.
At every Awesome Walls location, the whole floor is covered with soft and padded mats, ensuring a controlled and secure experience. You have complete control over how high and far you climb, so you can take it at your own pace and comfort level. If you’re new to climbing, it’s a great idea to stick to easier grades with lower walls and finishes, so you can comfortably work your way up the wall. And don’t hesitate to seek assistance from the friendly staff, they’re there to guide and support you every step of the way!
On the wall: Get a grip
Our climbing walls are covered in various colourful holds. You will notice that each colour represents a pattern, this is called a route. When you are climbing, you will navigate the route by climbing the holds that make up the pattern. You’ll encounter jugs (big, comfy holds for your hands), crimps (tiny, sneaky holds that require finger finesse), slopers (smooth, sloping holds that demand trust and balance), and so much more! Once you become more comfortable and familiar with grips and holds you can start exploring and embracing the art of shifting your weight, finding sweet spots, and experimenting with different hand positions. It’s like solving a giant, three-dimensional puzzle while doing a full-body workout.
Choose your outfit: Comfort comes first
For your first session at Awesome Walls, wear some comfortable workout attire. Once you arrive at the centre, you can rent a pair of climbing shoes and grab a chalk bag to level up your grip game. And if you are planning on trying out rope climbing, make sure to book a private session as this also includes harness hire. Oh, and don’t forget your water bottle. Climbing is a full-body workout so you need to stay hydrated.
Progress is a journey: Improve your skills
Improving your climbing skills is all about one thing: practice. The more time you spend on the walls, the more progress you’ll make. If you’re looking for an extra boost, take a class to refine your technique, observe experienced climbers in action, and don’t be shy to seek advice from fellow climbers. Regardless of your skill level, there’s always something to learn from others in the climbing community.
Now it’s time to hit the wall!
Ready to start climbing? Check our state-of-the-art climbing centres and try our routes to suit all abilities set by our world-class route setters. It’s time to strap up those climbing shoes, chalk up those hands, and get ready to conquer new heights.
What are you waiting for? Book your first session at Awesome Walls UK or Awesome Walls Ireland location today.
