CLIMBING: What I Wish I Knew When I Started!

Learn how to start climbing indoors and outdoors without letting your fear get in the way!

What do I wear?

My first day climbing I was so nervous about what to wear. I browsed videos online to see if I could wear leggings or if that'd be weird. I noticed that they were all wearing climbing shoes which of course I did not own. I called the gym to make sure they had rentals so I didn't show up and embarrass myself at the counter.

I really didn't want to show up looking like a fool and stand out like a sore thumb.

- I love to wear a comfy, supportive sports bra with full coverage since I traditionally don't wear a tank or shirt over it.

- Full leg pant (leggings are fine but I suggest not wearing anything you would be very upset about tearing or getting a rip) but I prefer a durable, relaxed-fit nylon/spandex pant. I have the link for the pants I wear often under "My Current Climbing Gear" page.

- I avoid shorts since I seem to bruise my knees and get scratches every time I wear them.

- Bring a scrunchie or hair tie. I prefer to pull my hair back for climbing since I dislike having hair in my face when I'm being active.

What do I realistically need for my first day?

All you will need for your first day is to show up in some athletic wear.

Indoor climbing gyms have rentals for all of the climbing gear that you'll need. Climbing gear is expensive so I would always suggest renting first to make sure that you enjoy the sport enough to make the investment.

Climbing shoe rentals approximately run at $5.00 a pair and to rent a harness costs approximately $7.00. This gives you the opportunity to try out gear and see what you like.

Should I start indoors prior to starting outdoor climbing?

I will always suggest to someone to begin their climbing journey in a gym.

First off, climbing in a gym is much less overwhelming. You have graded climbs that don't have you guessing where to start. The walls are coloured coded so you don't need to spend half your time trying to figure out where to go and they are also inspected often for safety.

When you begin climbing outside you'll find that figuring out where an actual route is can be tricky especially if you're not experienced. You'll need a book to find where the climbs begin and what they are graded. There is also not the option to begin a climb on top-rope outside. You will always need someone to lead the climb first which involves a certified, experienced climber.

Always ensure that whether you are climbing indoors or outdoors that you are following the proper safety precautions and that whoever you are climbing with has an active certification for what they are doing. Climbing can be very fun but also extremely dangerous. Be safe out there.

I feel like I'm physically not strong enough to climb - does this matter?

You may think you need a massive amount of upper body strength to be successful when it comes to climbing but that's not always the case.

You will learn that you use your legs more often in climbing than not so it really comes down to how much you're willing to practice your technique and how confident you become. Climbers come in all shapes and sizes which means that you may be better at other climbing problems than others but we all have our strengths and weaknesses.

Don't let the fear of not being strong enough hold you back. As time goes on you'll build that strength and learn how to use it to your advantage. No such thing as a "climber's body" - you climb and you have a body so you've got a climber's body right there!

How do I know where to start in the climbing gym?

I suggest bouldering for beginners. The boulder wall isn't high enough to need a harness or a partner to belay you - all you need is a pair of shoes. It's also less intimidating. Work on your technique and confidence on the boulder wall before tying up and climbing on top-rope.

What is something that has made you a better climber?

Realizing that my breath is my friend. I always begin my climbs now with taking a big inhale and giving myself a little pep talk like, "You can do this. You're so much stronger than you give yourself credit for." If I'm not willing to breathe and pump blood into my muscles then they won't work as efficiently as I want them to.

The fact that learning technique and practicing is so much more important than how fast you climb or if you finish a problem. No one really cares or notices what level you're climbing at so take your time and learn at your own pace.

Be social. Climbing is so much more fun with a good group of people that you can share the experience with. It's easy to start conversations with people at the climbing gym because you always have something in common to discuss so start chatting them up.

Be patient. You're going to improve with practice so don't beat yourself up because you couldn't finish a route. Rock climbing is really difficult but don't let that difficulty deter you. Your body is going to surprise you over time and you'll be shocked at your progress. Enjoy the process.

What are some tips/tricks you would share with a new climber?

1. Your first couple months of climbing you're going to get calluses, blisters and maybe even some scratches/tears in your hands and fingers. I remember my first two weeks of climbing I was bouldering and ended up ripping open a large chunk of my palm where a callus was and I couldn't climb for over a week. These things happen and are completely normal. Rest assured, your hands will build a stronger skin and you will not have this problem forever.

2. Cut your toenails and fingernails. Trust me, just do it. You don't want to end up jamming your toenails onto a hold on the wall or ripping a fingernail off. Yes, I've been there. Lastly, if you're going to climb weekly - you should probably save your money and skip the manicures.

3. T-Rex arms are a no go. Okay, I am seriously the worst for this. I am always flexing my arms and trying to pull myself towards the wall. It feels like such a natural movement to me but don't do it. Your arms tire out much faster when flexed rather than hanging naturally. Try to keep yourself straight armed to avoid unnecessary burnout.

4. Buy a gear bag that has a separate compartment for your chalk or else you'll end up looking like me and have a harness covered in chalk 100% of the time.