Yes!! I can’t think of a better year round activity that works your total body strength and provides as much of an adrenaline rush as indoor rock climbing. In each course you climb, you use upper body, lower body and core strength. You really feel all of your muscles working together in each climb, to get you to the top. There is nothing more satisfying than leaping away from the wall and repelling down after a high and challenging rock climbing path.
Indoor Rock Climbing is an Effective, Exciting and Challenging Activity
We finally found it! A unique fitness activity, outside of a standard gym that:
- Improves and builds cardio and total body strength
- Works out the mind as well as the body, with a social element
- Can be practiced all year round no matter what your climate is like
- Can be done alone, with one partner or with a larger group…it’s…
…INDOOR ROCK CLIMBING!
Indoor rock climbing has become quite popular over the last few years. From climbing at Boulderz, the local Etobicoke climbing gym my husband and various friends have gone to for years, we can attest to the fact that the gym is always busy. Climbing is great for any age. We see kids climbing the boulder wall as young as three, and couples and friends using the top ropes well into their senior years.
The bouldering section is often quite social, as you need longer breaks in between the grueling climbs. Top ropes interest me because I like the higher climbs and the ability to leap off the wall as far as possible with a quick drop down. I like tackling one wall after the next with shorter breaks.
Rock Climbing Works your Total Body
The fact that rock climbing combines cardio and strength into a single workout, makes it effective. Each climb challenges your strength, endurance, agility, flexibility and balance. You are forced to problem solve when the grips get challenging; to focus and concentrate on the best path up, out or down. Climbing obviously challenges your upper body and grip strength. It also requires a large amount of core and lower body strength to make it through a route.
At first glance, you may be thinking that rock climbing sounds dangerous. There is an element of excitement, that’s what keeps an adrenaline junkie like me continuously interested; but indoor climbing is very safe. You just have to use the equipment properly and follow the basic rules. It is best if you take a lesson to learn the “ropes” (haha). Knowing how to properly belay your partner and the other safety rules is important.
Indoor rock climbing is a great total body activity that can be performed year round.
Climbing is Easy to Get Better at With Practice
You really can improve your climbing methods with practice, practice, practice. In the beginning, I started at the easiest level, 5.3 routes, like everyone does. Within four weeks I was working on the 5.10- routes, with the 5.13 courses being the most difficult. So quick progression is possible, if you just stick with it.
I have seen the most improvement by climbing two times a week, in addition to completing my usual upper body strength routines in the gym. Focusing on shoulder, chest, forearm and core strength at the gym is especially important to improve your climbing skills. Boulderz changes their routes frequently so we always mange to find a few new paths to climb each time we go. This keeps things interesting and challenging.
What Do you Need to Get Started?
Most climbing gyms will have all of the equipment you need to get started, for rent. After you’ve gone a few times and realize that you like this activity, I would suggest you purchase your own equipment. It’s especially nice to have your own shoes since they are supposed to fit tight, without socks. I just have my own shoes, harness and chalk bag. It’s great that there is not a huge up front investment in this sport. You can often find starter packages for under $200.
The bottom line…Why Indoor Rock Climbing is the Best!
In summary, indoor rock climbing is an adrenaline pumping activity that improves your cardio and total body strength. It gets your mind and body working simultaneously. Rock climbing is versatile because it can be done all year round in any climate and it can be completed alone, with a partner or a large group. It doesn’t require a large up front investment so there is not much of a risk for you to try it out.
If you want an activity providing these benefits, that you can continuously challenge yourself with, try indoor rock climbing!
Indoor Rock Climbing FAQs
What should I wear when climbing indoors?
It’s generally best to wear something comfortable that will not restrict your movement while climbing. Long shorts or leggings and a t-shirt are all you need. If you are afraid of scraping your elbows as a beginner, is may be best to wear a long sleeve t-shirt.
How tight should my climbing shoes be?
Climbing shoes do fit on the tighter side. They should feel snug and be a little uncomfortable to wear 100% of the time if you’re at the climbing gym for a couple of hours. They should never cause pain or numbness in your foot or toes, or cut off your circulation.
I’m scared of heights—can I still enjoy climbing?
The short answer is – yes. Just start on low boulders and easy top-rope courses to build trust and strength. Breathe deeply, move slowly and keep looking at your feet. Confidence grows with continuous exposure. If you run into issues, get your belayer to let you down off the course slowly. Try another climb one grade easier than what you just tried. Stay at that level until you gain more experience and confidence.
Indoor rock climbing is a great activity that strengthens your total body.