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!
What inspired you to start climbing, and how has your journey evolved over time?
Diarmuid: I had climbed at Mission Cliffs when it opened in the late 1990’s, I loved it but I got busy raising kids. I always wanted to get back to it but didn’t have the time until recently. When I was younger my goal was to improve as quickly as possible. At this point I want to incorporate climbing into a more holistic fitness plan so I am less concerned about grades and my goal is not to get injured as I improve incrementally.
Mary: Diarmuid invited my husband and me to climb. Diarmuid is the Pied Piper of climbing. He invites everyone to climb with him! My husband didn’t love it, but I did and have been climbing regularly ever since.
What are some of the physical and mental benefits you’ve experienced through climbing, and how do they compare to other activities you've tried?
Diarmuid: I have done a lot of running and Ashtanga yoga in the past. Climbing is similar to both in that it is an individual pursuit; you know what level you’re at, and you work to get to the next level. Climbing works every muscle in your body, like yoga, but it’s more social. Our setters are excellent, so we get to explore new climbs every week, which keeps things interesting. Climbing also burns every ounce of excess energy you have, leaving you calmer and happier. I am stronger, leaner, and lighter and have many new friends.
Mary: I love the social aspect of climbing. You must have a partner! I’ve made so many new friends! I love how supportive everyone is and how willing everyone is to climb with anyone who needs a partner. Physically and mentally, I’ve gotten much stronger.
Did you have any preconceived notions or doubts when you began about what climbing could provide for you?
Diarmuid: I thought it would be a hobby I would dabble in, but it has evolved into my main form of exercise.
Mary: I had no preconceived notions because I had never considered climbing before Diarmuid invited us to Movement. But I did have a fear of heights! When I first started climbing, I was so scared. All I could do was hold on and climb up. I never looked down. Letting go at the top of the wall was terrifying. But I learned to trust - in my knot, harness, and partner - and I’ve conquered that fear.
What advice would you give to someone who might let their age stop them from starting to climb?
Diarmuid: As we age, we lose muscle mass, flexibility, and, perhaps more significantly, our social circles tend to shrink. Climbing is a great way to maintain muscle, improve flexibility, and meet new, like-minded people. If you come regularly, you will see benefits very quickly. The gym is very welcoming to beginners, so don’t be intimidated. It’s certainly not for everyone, but you won’t know if it’s for you until you give it a shot.
Mary: Do not let fear hold you back. You may find something you love!
Diarmuid & Mary after finishing SF's endurance challenge!
How has climbing impacted other aspects of your life?
Diarmuid: The most significant benefit has been the number of great people I have met at the gym.
Mary: Climbing added structure and discipline to my life. No matter what, my climbing schedule is set. Climbing takes precedence on Wednesday evening and Saturday morning. The physical and mental exertion of climbing is a great stress relief. So, climbing midweek reduces stress from the early part of the week, and climbing at the weekend wipes out the stress from the end of the week.
How has being part of the Peak Performance Team influenced your climbing journey and personal growth?
Diarmuid: Coach Galen Nishioka is a great role model for me. He is ten years older than me and climbing 5.12’s. Being part of Galen’s PPT has helped me focus on measurable improvement. I was a little frustrated with my progress in the beginning, so I gave up alcohol to see what impact that would have. I quickly lost fifteen pounds, and my climbing improved significantly. That awareness came from the class, and the change has benefitted me in countless ways.
Mary: I’ve met so many new friends and climbing partners through the PPT who inspire and encourage me. Our class is a veritable United Nations. We have members from so many different countries. My core is much stronger, and I’ve learned new skills that have improved my climbing. I love that we’ve had one consistent coach who is older than all of us and a rotation of assistant coaches who are much younger than all of us. The combo is perfect!
Do you use yoga or group fitness classes to aid in your climbing progression?
Diarmuid: Yes, my climbing partner, Mary Boland, and I rarely miss Mary Hayano’s Vinyasa Saturday class in San Francisco.
Mary: I take a yoga core class weekly, and occasionally, I’ll take a restorative yoga class. We were required to take kettlebell classes to participate in the Triathlon Challenge. While I don’t love kettlebells, I greatly appreciated the requirement. I’m so grateful that Movement wouldn’t allow us to participate in an event without the skills necessary to complete the challenge safely, and I love the fitness coaches whom I hadn’t met before!
What is one of your most rewarding or memorable climbing experiences?
Diarmuid: Mary and I completed the Endurance Challenge last year, climbing 1500’ in one day. That was pretty memorable!
Mary: My most memorable day was 6 months after I began climbing, I celebrated my 60th birthday with cupcakes and climbing at Movement. Friends and family who had never climbed before came from as far away as Boston to climb with me. So fun! My most rewarding day was Friday, March 29, 2024, the Golden Gate Bridge Challenge! 46 climbs! Over 1500 feet! I love the challenges. They keep things fun!
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