Climbing has gotten easier since it became possible to climb walls indoors. And no, not that kind of climbing the walls. Indoor rock climbing is much like outdoor rock climbing or mountain climbing, except the weather is not going to change on you. It's also a tad safer when it's done inside, and very possibly, is easier to get to than a good mountain in your area.
Maybe you wonder if you'd feel silly climbing a pretend mountain inside a building, but there are plenty of reasons to consider trying it. Before the 1980s, if you wanted to climb, you had to pick a mountain and brave the elements. But once climbing became an option inside, other amenities came along with it. For starters, you can choose your best level of difficulty. If you are a beginner, you can work your way up in ability by starting with the easiest level, and gradually moving on to the more challenging levels.
Here's some advice on what you will need when you rockclimb:
This isn't a sport you can do in your shorts and flip-flops. Not even when you are doing it indoors. Rock shoes, made with stiff rubber, are essential for success and comfort. Choose from shoes that lace up, slip on, or do up with velcro.
You'll need a harness for your adventure. You may need one made specifically for females so you can get a proper fit. Then again, women's bodies come in a wide variety, so if a man's harness is a better fit for you, that's the one you should use. Wear your climbing clothes when you try on a harness. Padded leg loops are an option to consider for greater comfort, and seatbelts can be obtained with either little padding or none, depending on your preference.
Be sure to get a carabiner. A carabiner is a metal snap-link that is used to connect things, and that is strong enough to handle great weight and force. You will need one to assist with belaying. This will help protect a climbing partner from being injured in a fall.
Chalk and a chalk bag should be on your shopping list. Chalk will give you a better grip and keep your hands dry. You can use block chalk, chalk balls, or loose chalk. Chalk bags come in different sizes.
If you'd like to tackle a real mountain outside one day, practicing on an indoor one will help you be prepared when the time comes. Climbing indoors means you will have footholds and handholds as opposed to whatever you'd face on an honest to goodness mountain. Wind, precipitation, and bugs will not be an issue while you focus your energies on just one thing. The climb.
Jody Smith is a freelance writer for Empowher.com
Sources:
Indoor Rock Climbing
http://www.healthguidance.org/entry/15009/1/Indoor-Rock-Climbing.html
How to Choose Indoor Rock Climbing Gear for Women
http://www.ehow.com/how_4540095_choose-indoor-rock-climbing-gear.html
Belay
http://climbing.about.com/od/dictionaryofclimbing/a/BelayDef.htm
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