Are you looking to get into some sort of fitness routine? Have you thought about climbing? Climbing is a fantastic workout that provides both aerobic and anaerobic benefits. First of all, climbing provides an excellent aerobic workout because you’re constantly working your arms and legs as you’re striving to get higher and higher.
The anaerobic benefit is obvious as it takes a lot of strength to get to the summit or whatever goal you’ve set for yourself. Now, to receive these benefits, you don’t have to go find a sheer cliff or a tall building. You can join a local gym that has a rock climbing wall, you can find a climbing gym that specializes in just climbing, or you can join an athletic club that involves climbing and climbing lessons. There are many ways to learn and enjoy climbing as this activity is steadily gaining in popularity as more people are finding out what a great workout it is.
The Proper Equipment
When you begin climbing, you must ensure that you have the proper equipment, such as climbing shoes, a harness, climbing rope, and more. Your instructor will probably provide you with everything you need, except the climbing shoes. The climbing shoes you probably will want to buy yourself so that you can ensure the right fit and also to make sure you get the right kind. You want your climbing shoes to have a gripping surface and many have cleat like bottoms on them for easier gripping.
If your instructor doesn’t provide the equipment for you, you can always rent the equipment. It’s recommended that you rent first before you buy. That way you can make sure you like climbing as a fitness activity and also to make sure it’s something you’ll stick with. You wouldn’t want to buy your climbing shoes and all the rest of the equipment only to have it gather dust in your garage or attic. Instead, rent to see if you like it; then think about buying.
Safety First
Whether you’re climbing for fitness reasons, or just because you enjoy the challenge, always practice safety first. Never climb without a certified instructor unless you’re an expert, always wear the proper equipment, especially climbing shoes, and never take any chances you’re not sure about. It’s better to be safe than sorry, as the old adage goes. Once you get the hang of it, however, you’ll find that you can get into great shape and have a blast doing it.
