Introduction
Naomie Mullarky has built her life on supporting others—whether it’s her work as a speech and language therapist helping adults with autism, or her role as a dedicated parent. Along the way, she’s found a deep passion for climbing and fitness, using them both as a way to recharge, stay balanced, and connect with her son. From bodyboarding in the sea to weightlifting in the gym, Naomie embraces challenge and growth in everything she does.
Quick Facts
- Name: Naomie Mullarky
- Profession: Speech and Language Therapist
- Years Climbing: 3
- Home Gym: Boulder Brighton
- Favorite Non-Climbing Exercise: Weightlifting
- Fun Fact: She once had a pet lamb named Perky who followed her everywhere
Career and Passion
Q: What do you do for a living?
A: I am a speech and language therapist supporting adults with autism, and I love it.
Q: How long have you been doing it?
A: My sister has severe autism, so in a way, my whole life. But I’ve been working as a SLTA for 12 years. It’s one of my many passions.
Q: What got you into that career?
A: My sister has shaped who I am and why I do this. She is non-verbal, so from a very young age I’ve had to find alternative ways to communicate with her. We use sign and symbols, and that experience inspired me to pursue this work.
Climbing Journey
Q: How long have you been climbing for?
A: I started climbing in 2022, so 3 years now.
Q: How did you get into rock climbing?
A: I wanted to try something new, and some friends were into climbing. I tagged along and fell in love with it. I love that the challenge is never over—there’s always room to grow and push yourself. I find it very mindful, and it helps my brain reset.
Q: What is your home rock climbing gym you train at?
A: I climb at Boulder Brighton.
Fitness and Lifestyle
Q: What other fitness exercises do you like to do?
A: I love weightlifting—it really complements climbing and vice versa. I also enjoy swimming and gentle cycling.
Q: How important is fitness to you? And why?
A: Fitness is one of the core things I need to function. It helps me focus and feel less anxious. My life can be stressful—I’m a lone parent, work full-time, and am doing a degree—so fitness keeps me balanced.
Q: What is the best advice you can give someone getting into fitness?
A: It’s never too late! Life is busy, but prioritise carving out those moments for yourself.
Q: If you could do only one exercise the rest of your life (not climbing), what would it be? And why?
A: Weightlifting. I love feeling strong, and it’s great for your whole body.
Family and Fun
Q: What is your favorite activity to do outside of fitness with your kids? And why?
A: My son is very active, and one of our favorite things is being in the sea—bodyboarding, paddleboarding, or snorkeling. I’m hoping to teach him to surf this year. I grew up in West Wales, which fed my love of the sea, and thankfully my son loves it as much as I do.
Q: What fitness activities do you enjoy doing the most with your kids? And why?
A: I’ve recently started taking him to my climbing gym, which feels very special. It’s a privilege to share one of my passions with him and see his love for it grow too.
Climbing and Beyond
Q: What is your favorite climbing day snack before or after a climbing session? And why?
A: It’s not at all healthy, but the café at my gym makes the greatest millionaire’s slices I’ve ever tasted.
Q: If you were a rock climbing hold, which one would you be? And why?
A: Probably a jug—safe, easy to cling onto, and reliable.
Q: If you could compete in any Olympic sport (summer or winter), what would it be? And why?
A: Skiing. I love being in the mountains, and the thrill of working your way down a slope is unlike anything else.
Fun Facts
Q: What is a fact about you people would be surprised to learn?
A: I grew up on a smallholding and had a pet lamb called Perky who followed me everywhere.
Stay Connected with Naomie
Follow Naomie’s climbing and fitness journey here:
- Instagram: @mullarkyyy
- TikTok: mullarkyyy
- YouTube: @naomiemullarkyyy
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