A Beginners Guide to Rock Climbing in London
So you're thinking about rock climbing in London? I bet you are asking yourself a lot of questions. Where should I go, what equipment do I need, should I join a club or get some taster sessions? Well, hopefully our guide below should point you in the right direction.
Why try climbing in the first place?
Rock climbing is not only a great for your muscles it increases your strength, endurance and will improve your general fitness but it's also a lot of fun! Rock climbing, even indoors, is exciting, will take you out of your comfort zone and challenge you in a way very few other sports can. It's also a great way to meet people and is a much more sociable way of exercising than a lonley trip to the gym.
Is it safe?
Although rock climbing can be a risky activity when done incorrectly, with good instruction and the proper equipment, it can be a safe, enjoyable sport for adults and kids alike. As the BMC say: “The BMC recognises that climbing and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death. Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions.”
Never Climb Before?
We would recommend getting yourself on a beginners course run by one of the rock climbing centres. These are great ways to get started in the very safe hands of experienced instructors - You can check out our where to climb section find your local wall and get in contact .
Where to start?
We would reccomend going Bouldering first, there are some great bouldering only places around like The Arch or Urban Ascent. Here you will be able to master the physical techniques of climbing and getting your body used to supporting your weight on your toes, fingertips and strengthening your muscles but without having to worry too much about knots, specific equipment and technical skills such as belaying.
You know the basics but you want to learn more?
Why not think about joining one of the London Climbing Clubs. There are a great way to meet like minded people and build on those climbing skills you already have. Practice makes perfect and it's always fun to learn from other people.
Where should I go?
You can check out our where to climb section which is jam packed full of information on all of the rock climbing wall's in London.
What should I wear?
You can pretty much wear anything, within reason. Any sports or loose fitting comfortable clothing works well. Although we would recommend you wear something you dont mind getting dirty or scuffed.
What Equipment do I need?
Check out our handy guide to what climbing equipment you will need.
Further Reading
