Rock Climbing: The Ultimate Beginners Guide
Stepping Outside the Gym and Into the Wild
Header image: Simon Carter featured in Vertical Life 48 (Sean Myles Project/ Light Weight Baby)
Outdoor rock climbing offers a whole new level of challenge and adventure. As thrilling as it is, starting can feel daunting especially if you’re new to rock climbing in general. This guide will walk you through the essentials, from climbing styles to gear, helping you to ‘learn the ropes’ of climbing or transition from indoor gyms to the outdoors.
Rock Climbing Styles for Beginners
There’s many different ways to go rock climbing and most climbers aren’t just characterised by one style. However the safest and easiest way to get into rock climbing would be top rope climbing
Top Rope Climbing
A safe introduction to outdoor climbing, top-rope involves a rope anchored above the route, protecting you from major falls. With an experienced belayer handling the other end, it’s perfect for getting comfortable with outdoor environments.
READ: Essential Rock Climbing Gear You Should Own
Bouldering
With its low height and focus on strength, bouldering is excellent for getting your techniques dialled without needing a rope. All you need is a crash pad beneath you and a willingness to try challenging moves. There are many bouldering gyms around Australia which you can start bouldering at.
Sport Climbing
This style involves clipping into pre-placed bolts as you climb. Although it’s a step up in difficulty, it provides freedom and excitement. It’s a natural progression once you’ve gained confidence in top roping. This is not something that the Vertical Life team would recommend for you to start with.
Essential Outdoor Rock Climbing Gear
- Rock climbing shoes
- Helmet
- Harness
- Belay device & carabiners
- Chalk & chalk bag
- Climbing rope
Check out the gear from our friends at The Climbing Anchors.
Learning the Ropes
Find a friend, mentor or instructor to learn
While outdoor climbing may seem similar to the gym, outdoor routes and conditions vary greatly. A certified instructor can help you learn anchor systems, route finding, and climbing safety in a natural environment that you would struggle to learn on your own. The best way to find an instructor or groups to go with is through your local climbing gym or shop.
READ: Frog Buttress and The Scenic Rim SEQ Rock Climbing
Climbing Etiquette
Respect the crags by following these simple rules:
- Stay on marked trails.
- Clean up after yourself and minimise chalk marks.
- Don’t climb at culturally significant sites
- Keep noise to a minimum and respect other climbers’ space.
Vertical Life Local Lore: Find A Crag Near You
Vertical Life have a local lore column in every issue of our magazine where we get valuable insights about Australian crags from the locals. Also check out thecrag.com to learn more about climbing hotspots near you.
- Mount Coree, Canberra
- Gardens of Stone National Park, NSW
- The Red Centre
- The Frog Buttress, Scenic Rim
So what are you waiting for?
Transitioning from indoor to outdoor rock climbing is super fun and challenging, but preparation and safety are key. Take your time by learning from experienced climbers, and enjoy getting into the unknown.
