Rock Climbing?

• Hey everyone, I'm interested in trying out rock climbing for the experience but the problem is I don't know where to start! As a one time thing would I need any special equipment or have to go through some kind of training? Any info is appreciated! Thanks!

• Answer:

  These days rock climbing is a very easy and safe sport to get into. I believe you have two great options, depending on where you live and what is available: rock climbing gyms, or day classes at a state park. I suggest you go with a friend to be your 'climbing partner' (someone who hasn't climbed before either would be just fine), and try out either of these two options... --------------------- Gym Climbing: --------------------- Rock Climbing Gyms are very popular these days, and are a very safe and very easy introduction. Gyms are incredibly safe, gyms with 'spring-dampening' floors especially. However, in gyms you typically don't get as much hands-on instructions, and from my experience the instructors are not as 'experienced' as the outdoor guides. Typically you and a partner can go into a gym almost any time of the day, and take a 30 minute 'belay class'. Call ahead to see what times they are offered. The belay class will teach you how to work the ropes, and offer you and your partner a few test climbes to make sure you can do it safely. After that you take the belay class, they ask you a few questions to make sure you were paying attention, and then you are typically on your own. You and your partner can walk around and find a few good climbs. It is very safe, fun, and a great workout. Beginnners typically tire out the forearms out after a few good climbs. However, you will typically have a pass to use the gym for the rest of the day. You do not need to buy any equipment, all equipment will be provided as a rental for the day. Typicaly prices may be around $20-$30 for a day of climging, with rentals. Sometimes cheaper for students, or weekday mornings. ----------------------------- Outdoor Climbing Classes: ----------------------------- If you are lucky enough to live in an area near a national park with climbable rocks, then they will probably have guided classes for beginners, which offers you a different type of climging that you may find more rewarding, but will cost a little more in terms of time and money. I have found these to be a little more risky, you have to make sure the guides are well trained and well experienced because the danger level increases with outdoor climbing. The guides I have run into are typically very good, and are always much more experienced than the gym employees. With outdoor climbing, you will typically have to pay more, but you will typically get more 'hands-on' instruction, so the payoff is greater, IMHO. Also, the outdoors beats the pants off of indoor gyms almost anyday of the week. Typically with a class, you meet early in the morning at the park, and the guide will take you to a spot where you will get a lesson on the equipment and how to use the ropes. Then you get a few test climbs to make sure you and your partner know how to work the ropes. After that, and this is why you will pay more for outdoor classes, the instructor will set up various top-rope climbs, and will give you feedback and instruction on climbing. You do not need to buy any equipment, all equipment will be provided as a rental for the day. You typically just need to bring a box lunch, water, and sunscreen. See the links below for indoor and outdoor examples. The Yosemite mountaineering school even provides 'vacation' packages. For instance, around $500 for three nights lodging and instruction (very fun I'm sure). Climbing is an awesome sport, so climb safely, good luck, and have fun!