If you've decided to attempt rock climbing for the first time, it can be a little intimidating. There's a lot to learn to make sure you stay safe, and the height can be unsettling. Fortunately, you can learn from those that have gone before you. Here's a look at some of the most common rock climbing mistakes made by first timers, and how to make sure you avoid them.

Mistake #1: Not Communicating

Rock climbing is one of those sports that you can't really do alone. Due to the nature of the sport, communication is crucial. You will be dependent on someone else as you're climbing, and you must stay in communication with that person. As a first time climber, it would be easy to get caught up in doing "the right thing" when climbing, and forget the mental part of it. You'll need to talk to your belayer to let them know what you're doing, and you'll need to hear from your belayer to know that it's safe to climb. Make sure you know the correct terminology before you start.

Mistake #2: Rushing Your Moves and Not Planning

Rock climbing is a very calculated sport. There's no need to rush. A first time climber may want to avoid "looking bad," so they just try to shoot up the wall without really planning where they're going. But experienced climbers know that you've got to have a plan. Don't just look for your next hold, but look where that hold will lead you. Don't be afraid to stop and think about your next move. Rushing your moves will only lead to slipping, or to being stuck in one spot with nowhere to go.  

Mistake #3: Not Trusting Your Feet

Stable footing in a climber's biggest asset. For the most part, you'll be doing the majority of climbing with your feet, only using your arms as balance. From the onset, trust your feet. Be confident that, if you have your feet set, you've got all the support you need. Likely the biggest mistake a first time climber will make is kicking the wall while trying to find a hold. Make sure you're keeping your feet high, and push yourself up with your legs. When reaching for a hold with your foot, don't kick at it, but slowly move until you're secure.

If you're interested in rock climbing for the first time, it's probably best to start out at a special rock climbing facility. They'll have trained staff there to help you, and to show you the ropes (literally). When you're not making these mistakes, and you've got a little support behind you, you'll be scaling walls in no time! Check out companies like Adventures In Climbing to get started.

Share