Mind Set

People have this notion of when they enter a rock-climbing gym that they need to be on the level of a “professional climber” or at least have some prior experience. That is not the case at all! Most people don’t realize that rock climbing does not have a specific age or skill level. You can walk into any climbing gym, grab some rental gear, get an orientation from the staff, and climb!  Try all the easier routes they have set up and even try some more challenging routes as you get more comfortable. 

People often have the mindset that they must be super strong when it comes to their upper body, that is in fact wrong. Climbers should be using and depending on their legs and feet far more than their arms. The nice thing is most rock-climbing gyms have supportive staff and members that encourage and give tips when you are climbing for your first time. Never be afraid to ask staff or another climber for tips or what to do (Beta). 

The climbing community is different than any other sport.  We all want to see everybody succeed.  From conquering a fear of heights to just doing one route in a particular grade. 

Climbing is an overall full body and mental workout., and there are expectations of age when it comes to climbing.  As long as kids can fit into our smallest youth size shoes and into our youngest full body harness they can climb.  Now, how high they climb is on them, but I’ve personally seen a 2-year-old climb all the way up the taller walls.  Being “too old” is also heard a lot in gyms.  My gym has a group of members called the “O.F.C.C” (Old Farts Climbing Club). The oldest member is 81 years old and youngest is in their 50’s! They climb every week multiple times and remind us all that age is just a number. I talk about them all the time to people that may think they are “too old” when they come in for their kids or grandkids. I tell them just give it a shot and you may surprise yourself and really enjoy it.  

So, if you get a chance to go to a rock-climbing gym, if possible, give yourself a chance to get on the wall. At the end of the day, it’s all about having fun.