Movement Blog

Climbing holds are an integral part of modern indoor climbing, but they haven’t always existed in the form we know today. The evolution of climbing holds has shaped the sport in ways we often take for granted. The types of holds that were created dictate the style of movement possible, influence how climbers train, and even precipitated the development of indoor climbing as its own distinct sport. Without these innovations, indoor climbing would look vastly different than it does today.

Climbing has a way of drawing people in, whether through the thrill of movement, the challenge of the sport, or the community it fosters. For Isabel, it was a chance introduction in 2021 that quickly turned into a passion—and soon after, a competitive pursuit. Just this past March, she won 1st place in her category at Paraclimbing Nationals, a testament to her dedication and hard work. In this Q&A, she shares her journey from first-time climber to national champion, her approach to training and mental preparation, and her aspirations for the future of paraclimbing, including the sport’s Paralympic debut in LA28.

Let’s face it, climbing can be tough on your body. You’re pulling, pushing, hanging, and twisting in ways that most workouts don’t even come close to. And while climbing is a killer workout on its own, adding cross training can make a world of difference in how strong, stable, and injury-free you feel on the wall.

Whether you're a boulderer or a rope climber, you've probably felt the dreaded pump—the moment when your forearms are on fire, your grip starts failing, and your hands just want to peel open. Even worse, the moves feel totally doable, but stringing them together from the ground up? That’s a different story. You find yourself thinking, "If only I had better endurance..."

With the weather warming up, outdoor climbing season is here. Stepping into this new world can feel overwhelming—and expensive—especially when you see other climbers decked out with racks of gear and specialized clothing and shoes. But not all climbing gear is essential when you're just getting started. This guide will break down what you truly need for each type of outdoor climbing and what can wait until later.

Climbing grades. Love them, hate them, argue about them in the parking lot—they're a root part of climbing culture. There are a ton of grading systems across the world of climbing, but the goal is to come to a shared understanding of what you can expect when venturing into the vertical unknown. Here at Movement, we like to use the Yosemite Decimal System (more on this later).

Finding a sport you love doesn’t always happen early in life. Sometimes, it takes years to discover an activity that excites you, challenges you, and keeps you returning for more. For Movement San Francisco members Diarmuid and Mary, climbing became that sport—proving that it’s never too late to start something new. We caught up with them to talk about their climbing journey and what keeps them coming back to the gym. Check out our conversation below!

Are you looking for a new fitness hobby to stay active and meet new people? Finding your community can feel overwhelming, but what if your gym could also be your social hub? At Movement Gyms, we make it easy to connect with others while improving your fitness. Whether you’re new to the area or just ready to try something different, our climbing, fitness classes, and community challenges create the perfect space to build strength and friendships.

Climbing isn’t just a sport; it’s an experience that challenges individuals to push past their limits, face their fears, and build deep connections with others. For queer individuals, finding spaces that embrace their true selves while sharing in the joy of climbing can be incredibly empowering. In the climbing community, the focus has always been on personal growth and shared achievement, and this extends to the welcoming environment queer climbers experience at Movement gyms. It’s a space where the joy of climbing and the thrill of reaching new heights take center stage, but where people’s identities, including their gender and sexual orientation, are met with respect and support. Movement fosters a culture of inclusion, celebrating the diversity that each person brings to the sport. In these spaces, the goal is always to lift each other up—literally and figuratively. Queer climbers often find that when they first step into a Movement gym, they are greeted by a community that not only accepts them but celebrates their unique identity. It’s not uncommon to see diverse groups of people—whether they’re climbing with their partners, friends, or in supportive groups—casually chatting about techniques and routes, exchanging tips, and encouraging one another. It’s a place where queer climbers are able to truly express themselves, free from the worries of fitting into a specific mold. In almost every location across the DFW region, there is an event called Queer Climb Night dedicated to creating a safe and welcoming space for the LGBTQIA+ community. What stands out most in these spaces is the sense of belonging that comes with being surrounded by people who are genuinely supportive. From experienced climbers to first-timers, the climbing community works together to create an atmosphere where no one feels left out. The staff, too, play a crucial role by ensuring that everyone feels included and empowered to climb at their own pace. There’s something special about being able to fully express yourself while climbing, free from judgment. When a queer climber is on the wall, focused on a challenging problem, the shared experience with others becomes about the climb itself. The connection with fellow climbers transcends labels—what matters is the next move, the next step, and the collective effort to reach the top. It’s an environment where individuals feel accepted and celebrated, regardless of how they identify. While the world of climbing continues to evolve, it’s clear that there’s a strong sense of community within the sport. Queer climbers have found not just spaces where they belong but spaces where they can thrive. From gyms to outdoor crags, climbing has become a place of celebration, a space where LGBTQIA+ individuals are encouraged to be themselves and are surrounded by others who are ready to cheer them on. It’s a community that’s united in their love for the sport, and in their celebration of one another’s diversity.