Looking to get on the wall for the first time? Welcome! Stepping into a climbing gym for the first time can feel a little intimidating, but you don't need to know how to climb to get started. Bouldering gyms are designed for climbers of all levels, with classes, meetups and community events that make it easy to learn the basics, meet new people, and feel at home in no time!
Here are three ways bouldering gyms help new climbers find their footing:
Beginner-Friendly Intro Classes
One of the easiest ways to get comfortable in a bouldering gym is to take an intro class in your first few visits.
At Movement, all of our gyms offer Intro to Bouldering classes designed specifically for new climbers. You’ll learn fundamental movement techniques, how to fall safely, climbing gym etiquette, and how to approach a climb. You’ll also get familiar with things that might seem confusing on your first visit, like V-scale grades, different types of climbing holds, and how to read a bouldering problem.
You don’t need to be strong, flexible, or have climbed before to participate. Our instructors will meet you where you are and help you build confidence on the wall.
Meetups to Help You Find Your People
Bouldering may be an individual sport, but you don’t have to climb alone. Having a crew to cheer you and answer questions can boost confidence and help you build community.
Many climbing gyms host meetups and partner with local and national affinity groups to help climbers connect. These communities may center around shared identities, experiences, or interests, including Latinx, BIPOC, AAPI, sober, queer, adaptive, and para-climbing communities.
Meetups are a great way for new climbers to meet people, ask questions, and find a supportive group to climb with. Check your local gym’s event calendar to see what’s coming up.
Community Events That Go Beyond Climbing
A climbing gym doesn't have to just be a place to boulder and workout.
Movement gyms host events throughout the year for climbers of all ages and experience levels. Some are climbing-focused, like beginner-friendly competitions or themed climb nights, while others are simply an opportunity to hang out and meet people. Think game nights, trivia, craft nights, BBQs, run clubs, yoga, bike rides, live jazz, chili cookoffs and so much more.
Give your fingers a rest and take a second to hang out. Community events can be a low-pressure way to get familiar with the space and start meeting your climbing community.
You don’t need previous climbing experience to walk into a bouldering gym. Start with an intro class, try a few beginner-friendly climbs, ask questions, and give yourself permission to fall, rest, and figure things out as you go.
Everyone was a beginner once. Before long, you might find yourself cheering someone on, chatting between attempts, or sticking around for one more climb.
Ready to give bouldering a try? Check out upcoming classes and events at your local Movement Gym, and follow us on Instagram to get a feel for the community before your first visit.