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Climbing Etiquette for first timers ✨
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items First time in a climbing gym? No worries, I’ve got you! Here are things I wish I had a heads up on in a short list. Tell me about how it went and I hope this was helpful! 💙💙
Have fun! You’re most likely doing something out of your comfort zone. Embrace it!
Have Fun
Whether rope climbing on auto belay or bouldering, pay attention to other climbers. What route are they climbing? Will it intersect with you? Are you under them? Are you in their fall zone? Best practice is to stay off the mats unless you’re climbing...
Be aware of other climbers
For both friends and other climbers. You do not want to be directly in anyone’s fall zone. Feel free to chat and cheer in a fall zone free space. Not sure what that looks like? Ask a climber or a staff member.
Allow for Space
It’s part of climbing. No one cares if you’re falling and flailing. That’s 95% of climbing anyway. Plus, you’re doing something new. Even if you’re super strong, climbing is about strength, mental game, and movement.
Look stupid and be vulnerable
Think yoga plus something you don’t mind getting scuffed up. It happens. As long as you’re comfortable and can move freely, you’re good to go!
Wear Comfy Clothes
Be cognizant of other climbers waiting to climb a route. “Line up” for your attempt or ask if you’re not sure if someone is waiting.
How does a queue work?
You may see folks brushing holds. General rule is to let them have an attempt before getting on the same route. They’re brushing off the grossness (yes I made that up) and trying to clean the hold in attempts that they can stick to it better. Really ...
What’s up with brushing?
Most gyms have a filling station. Stay hydrated!
Bring water
A staff member or fellow climber can be helpful resources. Better to ask and avoid unnecessary injury! Remember, climbing is inherently dangerous.
Ask For Help
They should give you a crash course in this, however, I highly recommend practicing this whether it’s your first time or not. Until you’ve taken many, many falls…this will feel unnatural.
Practice falling in a safe way!
No need to buy your own pair…yet. But either way, get something comfortable for long wear. The notion that climbing shoes need to hurt your feet is BIZARRE!
Comfy Rental shoes
Give yourself grace. You won’t be doing this on day one. But if you enjoy it, keep going. It’s about the journey!
Rome wasn’t built in a day
No need to get fancy. Auto belays under 5.9 and boulders under V3 should be what you go after. Again, it’s your first time! No expectations!
Start Easy/Chill
Enjoy your day pass. No need to rush. Make sure you rest your body, no matter how active you are. Climbing works very different body parts than usual exercise. Breaks are a good thing.
Take a rest!
Maybe you find this was right up your alley! It was for me and I haven’t looked back in 5 years. Climbing is a great activity, with many different options. What I love most? You can do it and start at ANY AGE. It’s empowering, creative, and the best ...
Find your new passion