Why Do You Want to Rock Climb?

Doesn't matter how old you are, Rock Climbing is one of the fastest growing and certainly most challenging adventure sports.  In fact, I was 29 when I started rock climbing.

Doesn't matter if you're single, attached, a parent or not - rock climbing doesn't discriminate.  I started rock climbing as a young mother of two young children.  I was looking for a little fun and a bit of purpose to my life. Maybe you are too.  I made a list of things I wanted to do and learn and places I wanted to visit.  You know the list, you probably have a mental one and perhaps you've even written a few items down.  I won't call it a bucket list because I was 28 when I wrote mine - far far away from kicking the bucket!  To me it was more of a life list and on that list were four magic words - learn to rock climb. 

So that's what I did.  I hopped online and learned as much as I could about the sport of rock climbing and then I went to the closest rock climbing gym because there's only so much you can learn without actually trying it (and I lived in the Midwest at the time, not great for outdoor rock climbing).

Having been afraid of heights, I wasn't sure this was the sport for me but I gave it a try and guess what - I loved it! 

Rock climbing:

• Makes you feel strong and graceful at the same time
• Challenges you both mentally and physically
• Is a sport you can do alone, with a partner or with a huge group
• Is accessible inside and out
• Uses muscles you never thought you'd use
• Gives you confidence to try new things
• Lets you meet new people
• Helps you set, and accomplish, goals
• Shows you you're capable of anything!
  

I've now been climbing for 10 years and my daughters do too.  

This site is devoted to sharing knowledge, tips and strategies for rock climbing and climbing with children.  Take a look around.  If you have questions, comments or experiences you'd like to share, drop me a line I'd love to hear from you.  In the meantime, I hope you enjoy our articles!

Want to Go Rock Climbing?: Take the First Step

Rock Climbing: Bouldering is A Great Learning Tool

Rock Climbing with Children

Rock Climbing Gear: The Essentials

Embracing the Rock: Mountain Climbing Styles