Is rock climbing better than the gym. Climbing is a Great Full-Body Workout.

Is rock climbing better than the gym. We’re assuming you go to the gym for a few reasons. I normally do full body at the gym, but I was thinking of going rock climbing along with working out at the gym there. Aug 3, 2010 · Find rock climbing routes, photos, and guides for every state, along with experiences and advice from fellow climbers. Discover some of the favorite reasons why it’s a good replacement for the gym. San Francisco is one of our favorite cities, but it wasn’t until recently that we started adding climbing gyms as part of our travel itinerary. Is Rock Climbing Better than Weight Lifting? Climbing trains the muscles that are required for the routes and problems you do, but climbing is not equivalent to a total body weight training workout. . Joining a gym can be daunting. Here are 5 reasons why we think climbing beats the regular gym. The mental challenge required for rock climbing alone, demands more than a regular gym workout. You don’t really need a lot of gear to take up weight training. Feb 25, 2020 · If you love the results of HIIT, you’ll love what indoor rock climbing can do for you. While indoor climbing gyms provide a convenient and accessible introduction to the sport, many climbers find themselves drawn to the exhilarating Jan 15, 2023 · Contrary to popular belief, getting better at rock climbing is not just about developing finger strength. A recent study out of University of Vienna and the Swiss Federal Technology Institute of Lausanne notes concerns about air quality in rock climbing gym from climbing shoes creating rubber particulates. Oct 29, 2021 · Every route is a unique puzzle! Feeds Your Craving for Adventure If you crave adventure or excitement, rock climbing is for you. Apr 4, 2022 · Climbing requires strength and technique, but it can be hard to figure out where to focus: Do you need to get stronger, or do you need better movement skills? I get so much more here than at other monthly gym memberships. Instead, there are various ways to stimulate progress and get better at climbing that climbers sometimes don’t consider. Outdoor climbing shoes, on the other hand, are more rigid and have thicker soles to provide better protection on real rock surfaces. She ‘Trains For Life’ and now, she moves stronger, feels better, and shares her joy with everyone around her. Nov 22, 2021 · Is rock climbing better than weight lifting? Why do rock climbers scream? 1. All you need for bouldering is a pair of climbing shoes, a once-off purchase rather than a month’s expense. Rock climbing is a test of resilience and strength for athletes, and it requires perfect equipment such as the best climbing chalk. Feb 14, 2022 · Can you do a one-arm (or ten) but only boulder V7? Here's what to do. While both involve scaling vertical surfaces, they differ in terms of equipment, techniques, and overall approach. Welcome to Climbing’s yearlong Training Bible. A climbing gym hosts a wide variety of routes and problems from 5. I have decided to join a climbing gym as an alternate to lifting at my local PF. Jun 4, 2025 · Indoor Rock Climbing vs Bouldering Indoor rock climbing is a great way to train for outdoor climbing. Apr 22, 2022 · Stuck in a plateau? Break through with 14 steps to becoming a better rock climber, including tips to improve technique, fitness, and mindset. 🙌 #TrainForLife". To that end, I am more motivated to eat a little better, do some cardio and yoga, and do strength training than I would otherwise be. Nov 22, 2021 · Is rock climbing better than gym? Rock Climbing Vs Gym Whether rock climbing helps more than a normal gym is really down to what you want from the gym or a workout. Rock Climbing: These are two distinct yet closely related disciplines within the world of climbing. Find an indoor climbing gym on the world-wide list, learn how to build a personal climbing wall, and read effective climbing training plan, and get hooked on indoor climbing. But the matter of whether rock climbing gyms are profitable still exists. When you Jan 23, 2024 · Welcome to Climbing’s yearlong training plan. Jul 30, 2025 · 93 likes, 7 comments - defy. But besides training to become a better climber, indoor rock climbing is actually a good workout if done right. In fact, sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably – especially by folks new to the world of climbing. Indoors you have bright, obvious holds, but limited choices for feet (This really changes how technical climbing works). Should be on the to-do list of anyone in Skagit County. The climbing community is generally very friendly and willing to share tips and advice with new climbers. , you wear a harness and a belayer serves as your protection to catch falls) but this will be more endurance-focused. 5-3 hours on training days, 6-8 hours outside (but not a ton more actual climbing time) V6 short project, V7 occasionally, V8-V9 limit projects. Liquid chalk base to start a session 4. Should I join a rock climbing gym? A membership at a climbing gym is a great way to make friends and meet new people. Sure, you’ll eventually need to employ climbing-specific training methods, but even those will still look a lot like climbing (hangboards Was ridiculously strong back then, until inflation hit and I was forced to abandon driving 50 miles from work just to go to the rock climbing gym. This question does not have a straightforward yes or no response. Rock climbing can be a great alternative to traditional gym workouts. However, they are actually quite different and refer to two different spectrums of the climbing world and community. If you just want to get better at climbing, all you need is enough general strength. ” -Emily “Best climbing gym around, plus all the classes and fitness equipment make Movement a great gym and community. Whether bouldering in the gym or sport climbing high off the ground, this sport gives you an adrenaline rush. Dry hands well 3. I suspect what is more true is that climbing outside is different. Each rock climbing route is a puzzle that requires determination to figure out. Compare indoor vs. Indoor rock climbing is awesome! It's accessible, builds community, and hosts many programs for kids and adults. On real rock I love watching bulky gym rats come in with their girlfriends hoping to show off, then get completely shut down. It also offers an excellent body-building workout that eliminates the need to work out at the gym. Feb 8, 2022 · Complete beginner's guide to bouldering training. If you want to build some upper body, core, and back strength as well as do some light cardio – climbing as an alternative to lifting can be excellent. Dedicated to increasing all our knowledge about how to better improve at our sport. If your goal is to have a body building physique, you won't achieve it just rock climbing. You'll become aware of how many different muscles are used on a route once you begin climbing. Is Indoor Rock Climbing a Good Workout? Nov 22, 2021 · Is rock climbing better than gym? Rock Climbing Vs Gym Whether rock climbing helps more than a normal gym is really down to what you want from the gym or a workout. Days get shorter, nights longer, the weather turns cold and wet. outdoor climbing to help you get started today! I recommend supplementing your climbing with general strength training and cardio if you want to get a well-rounded workout. Learn about gear, nutrition, hangboarding, on-the-wall workouts, and more! May 5, 2022 · Rock climbing may seem like a niche sport, possibly one fraught with danger. As a beginner, either discipline will be challenging and build strength. But these days are long gone. Our members often talk about how much climbing has improved their lives. For me I find the best situation for dry hands climbing is 1. The downside is that there comes a point where it's really hard to find people better than you, but at this point you should be already experienced enough to make it on your own. Jun 23, 2024 · Indoor climbing shoes are typically more flexible and have stickier rubber soles to provide better grip on the artificial holds found in climbing gyms. This complete eight-phase training series will coach you through specific workouts based on periodization, a proven approach to training that results in peak climbing performance on the rock and in the gym. Oct 21, 2023 · If you are looking for a full-body workout to improve your overall fitness, you have likely considered rock climbing and weightlifting options but have found yourself with some questions. But experts say it offers participants a wide variety of physical and mental health benefits that are not always found Jan 10, 2025 · Why a Rock Climbing Gym is the Ultimate Training Ground The modern rock climbing gym is more than just walls and ropes—it’s a hub of fitness, fun, and innovation. Learn how it serves as a full-body workout and get essential tips for beginners to start safely. Mar 27, 2021 · Most rock climbing gyms nowadays also have a few auto-belays if you don’t have a climbing partner. More than a climbing gym, we’re a path to growth—personally, with your partners, and as a greater community. I have my own gym at home, but it is not the same. Been climbing for almost 4 years. If you look at climbing through an athletic lens - the only thing that really matters is topping out the problem/route/whatever. I went climbing last week and was blown away by the workout and loved the challenge of attempting different climbing routes. Our indoor climbing sessions help you and your family have a blast while staying active. I first started climbing on the indoor bouldering wall. Climbers also share a common passion for the great outdoors so you will instantly have things in common with everyone you meet. You may just learn about something you would not have Fairly simple question. training on July 30, 2025: "“In my 40s — and stronger than I’ve ever been. Last but not least, climbing will always need a climbing buddy (except for auto-belays, which not every place has), bouldering can be done solo. Nov 22, 2021 · Will rock climbing give me abs? The upper body strength required for rock climbing is a given for pulling oneself up, while the legs and core build muscle as the body strives to find balance. The movement gyms are a great place to bring a first time climber. The post Is Rock Climbing Better Tha Reddit's rock climbing training community. Here are the cliff notes (pun intended). Aug 17, 2021 · Climbing (or bouldering) is better than a gym to maintian health and quality of life. And I say this from experience, having done both many times throughout my life. My knuckles have gotten pretty burly, though. What’s everyone’s opinions on rock climbing as an alternative to going to the regular gym, or just to a regular workout? Nov 20, 2021 · Rock climbing and bouldering can help build muscle thanks to the dynamic muscle movement you experience when climbing off the wall. Read on to find out how it can be beneficial to you. Jul 25, 2025 · In the ’80s, ’90s, and much of the early aughts, rock climbing gyms were little more than training grounds where climbers honed their skills in preparation for objectives on real rock. Feb 21, 2025 · When it comes to indoor climbing gyms, Seattle’s Vertical World launched the concept in 1987, attaching holds with glue to vertical pieces of plywood. Jul 1, 2025 · Looking for the best rock climbing gyms in New York City? We’ve been to over 25 climbing gyms all over the US, and some cities have better gyms. Will climbing provide a full enough workout that I can ditch PF and dedicate that time that to climbing? Would love some input here. 2 days ago · Since 1970, Climbing Magazine has been the voice of the climbing world, publishing climbing news, interviews, features, opinions, and advice. Mar 2, 2023 · Rock climbing, nowadays, is arguably more synonymous with indoor gyms filled with brightly colored bits of plastic than pristine outdoor granite, limestone, or sandstone walls where climbing first began. What Is Bouldering? Climbing with people that are better than me. Bouldering is a good power exercise, but because climbs are generally very short and explosive, you do not build a ton of endurance, sport climbing is much better for that. Dec 16, 2023 · Have you been wanting to go outdoor rock climbing? Here's how to go from the climbing gym to the crag in 2024. Indoor climbing is fun, safe and supervised, and is one of the best ways to stay in shape, meet other active people, and enjoy a challenging and fun sport. Reddit's rock climbing training community. Wash your hands well before climbing if you can to get any oils or grease off of your skin 2. easy to around 5. So long story short it depends on what you want to do. If you usually enjoy sports like running, hiking, biking, or weight lifting the repetitive nature of these activities can leave your muscles unbalanced. 2. I have found that the higher end chalk (friction labs) feels nicer and coats better but doesn't last significantly longer then others. Feb 13, 2025 · Rock climbing can be quite a tight-knit sport by nature. If you have plenty of time at the climbing gym then there’s no reason why you shouldn’t finish with weights but you should avoid doing weights before climbing, Routines may take 30 to 90 minutes. Luckily, some of our local friends pointed us toward the best climbing gyms in SF bay area. rock climbing and discuss the implications in terms of difficulty, training safety, and equipment. People consistently claim that climbing outdoors is harder. Jul 21, 2025 · As more kids hit the climbing gym, we interview coaches, gym owners, and climber to find better solutions for sharing these spaces. Big powerful moves are also super common May 4, 2025 · Using chalk can inspire more confidence on the rock — and so can using the right gear. Patience. Aug 30, 2016 · Rock climbing gyms have become the new workout centers for outdoor-minded millennials living in urban areas — and for good reason. You would have a really hard time finding that variety of routes in a single area anywhere in the world. There are three types of physical exertion when climbing: Power, endurance and power endurance. ” From yoga to rock climbing, @healbyhuda trains to keep living fully — not just in the gym, but out in the world. More Climbing Health Articles – Rock Climbing For Exercise – Is Rock Climbing A Good Workout? – Rock Climbing Benefits Does Rock Climbing Burn Calories? Yes! You’ll find that holding yourself on to a wall is way sweatier than you might Is Rock Climbing Indoors or Outdoors a Better Workout? Excluding the long and strenuous approaches required to get to some crags, indoor climbing is a much better workout. Indoor gyms typically feature various walls with different angles and holds, while outdoor bouldering encourages a connection with nature. While indoor bouldering is certainly more expensive than a gym, most experienced climbers believe the trade-off is well worth the price based on the results. It tends to be more of a solitary activity than rock climbing, though it’s not uncommon to have a weight lifting buddy who can spot you. As many Jan 21, 2025 · Ever wondered which is better for you? Rock climbing vs weightlifting? Let's get into the details and let you decide for yourself! Looking to kickstart climbing but not knowing the difference between bouldering versus rock climbing nor rope climbing and trad climbing? Check out this ultimate guide to all the definitions and jargons you need. 13. Bouldering routes are shorter but much more intense than rock climbing routes. 1. Dec 5, 2024 · Bouldering can take place indoors at climbing gyms or outdoors on natural rock formations. Lifting weights may require a certain level of drive and motivation, but Mar 1, 2024 · Rock Climbing: Climbing gym memberships often cost more than traditional gyms due to the specialized equipment and facilities. Endurance is simply how long can you Nov 1, 2023 · Not only is rock climbing fun, it's also a great workout. Here’s a comparison to help you decide: Aug 5, 2020 · The main types of gyms you can choose from are: Big box gyms Boutique gyms Personal training gyms Women’s gyms CrossFit gyms Group fitness gyms or studios Powerlifting gyms Rock climbing gyms I’ll go over the various types of gyms available as well as what each one has to offer. Regardless of the location, the activity requires significant strength, endurance, and technical skills. With climbing gyms now offering monthly membership fee at around the same cost as a regular gym, more and more people are weighing up the options and looking at whether climbing might be a better option for them. Rock climbing is a thrilling and dynamic sport that has captured the imagination of many. Full-body workouts are often hard to come by, even in regular gyms. Whether you’re looking to tackle natural rock features, experience the beauty of climbing outdoors, or test your skills in a new environment, outdoor climbing is a significant step up from the controlled environment of Jul 8, 2024 · Indoor rock climbing features a more controlled environment than outdoor climbing. The gym juggles the now-usual brand of offerings: birthday parties, youth camps, and adult classes, plus a multitude of top rope and lead routes alongside a small bouldering area. Climb consistently to build up a base level of forearm endurance and recovery. Today, you’ll find people who identify as rock climbers who have never touched natural rock and spend their days pulling on colorful plastic holds. S. Power is defined as the single most challenging move you can successfully do. Full-Body Workout One of the first health benefits of rock climbing is the full-body workout that it offers. Sep 8, 2023 · Bouldering and rock climbing are very similar. NY is one of them. This climbing sport requires special focus and strength of mind, and this awesome sport deserves more recognition. In my mind the biggest difference between indoor climbing and outdoor bouldering is that at the gym, all of the holds are obvious and stand out because they are different colors. A session at the climbing gym provides a fun and complete full body workout. Over 2% of the U. It not only improves strength, but flexibility, and endurance. If you begin to rock climb even a few times a week, you’ll receive a full body workout every single time. But how is indoor climbing different from outdoor climbing? Many climbers still Sep 30, 2023 · Climbing is the same in many respects, and taking the time to develop good fitness may very well change your entire rock-climbing experience from here on out. Both have unique benefits, and the “better” choice varies for each person. Dec 4, 2023 · What Is Rock Climbing Like? Rock climbing is a full-body workout that engages a variety of muscle groups, providing a comprehensive workout for your entire body. Many avid gym-goers will find themselves questioning a gym membership vs rock climbing after just one visit. Reach new heights on a Better climbing or bouldering wall near you. If you're looking for a leaner more athletic physique, I definitely think rock climbing will work. The main things you can do at the gym are There is a rock climbing gym by my house, that has tons of walls and stuff, along with tons of exercise equipment kinda like a gym area. Thanks to indoor rock climbing gyms, this sport is now accessible to urbanites who may be hours away from the closest spot. rock climbing debate once and for all! What is Bouldering? 3 times a week in the gym, one full day outside on weekends for a total of 4 days. The answer is no. Give bouldering (climbing) a try. Pullups don't translate to climbing strength all that much, but they're great for just general strength. The skills don't perfectly translate. More than 600 gyms are open across the US, with more on the way. Can rock climbing replace the gym? Is rock climbing better than weight lifting? Is weightlifting better than rock climbing? Exercise and a fun, thrilling approach to raising your heart rate are rock climbing. Plus I love rock climbing and always encourage my friends to try it. There is a rock climbing gym by my house, that has tons of walls and stuff, along with tons of exercise equipment kinda like a gym area. Rock climbing requires a firm grip, along with superhuman patience and focus. Climbing is a Great Full-Body Workout. All you need to start rock climbing is your climbing equipment, some chalk, and a pair of shoes. Our dedicated climbing testers have spent a lot of hours getting outside (and hitting the gym, too!) to find the best climbing harness, climbing shoes, and top-ranked climbing ropes. Outdoor Rock Climbing In the 1960s, rock climbers ascended big cliff faces and scrambled up various rock features. Jan 25, 2022 · Download the app. Great place to train, have a party including birthdays, great family activity, group fun, or workout. Here’s how climbing will make you forget about HIIT! Outdoor rock may be covered in dirt or sand and can therefore be more slippery and confusing for the climber than holds that are used in a gym – climbing gyms don’t often replicate muck and dirt particles on their climbing holds. We’re here to settle the bouldering vs. It’s autumn time, and this means for many of my friends and me more time inside the bouldering and rock climbing gym. When you climb outside you spend I always hear this, but I find outdoor footholds so much better normally, rock has actual texture unlike the smooth polished gym holds I'm used to climbing on in my normal gym. Pushing past that and putting too much muscle on can be detrimental. Dec 30, 2024 · Making the leap from indoor climbing to outdoor rock climbing is a thrilling and rewarding experience, but it also comes with a whole new set of challenges and considerations. Most gyms will offer introductory courses. Bouldering is very power- and strength-oriented, but you could also try top roping (I. Learn more about the potential health and fitness benefits, types, and tips for beginners. Oct 21, 2021 · Rock Climbing is an amazing form of exercise that incorporates strength training and cardio in a fun challenge. Mar 15, 2024 · Bouldering vs. Jun 20, 2023 · Looking for the best San Francisco climbing gyms? Start here. A rock climbing gym’s success is influenced by a number of variables, including its As a fitness regime, I feel like rock climbing doesn't make me lose weight or get ripped. As Steve Bechtel reminds us, “Climbing is a skill sport,” and the only way to improve a skill is to practice the skill. Nov 23, 2024 · Weight lifting typically takes place in a fitness center or gym, or sometimes even in a home gym, basement or garage. Jul 17, 2024 · Rock climbing once required a trek to a mountain or a cliff. Initial costs also include purchasing climbing shoes, a harness, and possibly a belay device. Lifting Weights for Better Climbing Climbers often ask me if lifting weights will make them better at climbing. May 9, 2025 · The best vertical climbers offer an efficient, total body workout for people of all fitness levels. Feb 26, 2025 · Rock climbing can be done outdoors on natural rock faces or indoors at climbing gyms. Climbing in NYC has changed so much since we lived here pre-pandemic. And you can boulder both indoors and outdoors. Nov 16, 2022 · Rock climbing is a popular choice as an alternative to the gym. population has climbed indoors at least once in the last year; a growing subset of regular climbers (as much as 30%, by some estimates) exclusively climb Apr 10, 2022 · With the rise of bouldering gyms worldwide, especially in big cities, it’s essential to look at what bouldering exactly is and how it relates to rock climbing. Over the past few years, rock climbing has gained appeal as a sport, and as a result, more and more people are beginning to consider creating a rock climbing gym. e. Dec 3, 2023 · What Is Rock Climbing Like? Rock climbing is a full-body workout that engages a variety of muscle groups, providing a comprehensive workout for your entire body. However, rock climbing very much makes me want to lose weight and get ripped. This means you might have to climb with slightly sore You get better at what you practice and worse at what you don't. Dec 13, 2022 · A suitable time to train is on rest days between climbing sessions, possibly at the gym during your lunch break or at home in the evenings. In this article, we’ll define bouldering vs. In terms of becoming ripped, going to the gym and performing a specific routine of exercises will help you a lot more than rock climbing. Here are our top picks. With so many options, we put together this list to help you decide which gym to go to whether How to Get Better at Climbing?. Climbing also produces more lactate in your arms than standard gym exercises. Jun 27, 2024 · On any given evening, I can be found climbing alongside upwards of 200 others at my local gym, most of them better than me. In this article, I want to walk you through the different ways to improve your climbing abilities. Indoor rock climbing gym in Burlington Washington featuring bouldering, sport climbing (including top rope climbing, auto belay, lead rope climbing), hangboards, weights. What’s everyone’s opinions on rock climbing as an alternative to going to the regular gym, or just to a regular workout? Looking to challenge yourself rock climbing? Read our guide on the physical and mental benefits of climbing whether you're a beginner or experienced climber. Lifting weights may require a certain level of drive and motivation, but Nov 14, 2024 · Whether climbing is better than going to the gym depends on your fitness goals, preferences, and the experience you’re looking for. Depending on what type of climbing you do and your gym membership, rock climbing can be a cheaper option than the gym. Is climbing better than a normal gym though? The real truth is that it depends. Dec 14, 2023 · 17 Amazing Benefits of An Indoor Climbing Gym Here are the 17 benefits of an indoor climbing gym. Abs, obliques, delts, traps, biceps, lats, quads, calves – in fact, rock climbing even works your forearm muscles by strengthening a climber’s grip. At its core, rock climbing involves ascending natural or artificial rock formations using a combination of physical strength, mental focus, and technical skill. Mar 27, 2024 · Indoor Rock Climbing vs. Climbing is a great total-body workout that challenges you not just physically, but also mentally. Movement makes it easy with tours, intro classes, and chances to connect with the climbing staff before taking the plunge. Front levers translate better - it's an isometric hold, and dragon flags are just an advanced core exercise. Jul 2, 2025 · The growth of climbing is a worldwide phenomenon, with 636 climbing gyms in China by 2023—a rise of more than 30 percent in a single year, according to the Chinese Mountaineering Association. Jan 18, 2023 · Bouldering is more strength-oriented than rock climbing All forms of climbing obviously require strength but this is especially noticeable in bouldering where the increase in difficulty from one grade to the next often lies in the amount of strength you can output. Physical Training For Rock Climbing There is a ton of information out there about how to rock climb better and it can be slightly overwhelming. wlqlh sqqaql rzyi dkhjo nvcozi ueuy sdr bgh dozee ksdpfqv