If you're looking for something a bit different, exciting and a long term sport that you can practice for the rest of your life, not to mention going to scenic spots and actually being able to be with the outdoors, then climbing is one of those sports that is best in this category, not to mention that you'll never get bored with it. The only thing to take note is, it may not be for everybody. Since it is considered an extreme sport and many find it to be more difficult than you'd expect, it isn't always evident how to begin and start this kind of activity.
The good news is that bouldering has become a popular subgenre of the said sport because of how approachable it is, and that it is now easier than it has ever been to give it a try. In addition to that, there is unlimited potential for advancement. The sport is so fascinating that you literally never stop learning in the course of participating in it. There is no such thing as a repeat to every challenge and each situation is new. Â Since this is the case, why not get started right away?Â
We have compiled five significant reasons why you should try bouldering now! Cheers!
YOU REALLY ONLY NEED A HANDFUL OF ITEMS AND FEW ESSENTIALS
You actually only need three pieces of bouldering-specific equipment to get started: a crash pad to cushion any falls you take, climbing shoes to protect your feet and help you adhere to the rock, and chalk to improve your grip on the rock. Rentals are often available at reasonable prices at climbing gyms and stores, giving you the opportunity to test out various pieces of equipment before making a purchase. This is one of the reasons why bouldering is such an approachable form of sport.
Of course, it is crucial to ensure that you are well nourished and hydrated at all times. This means that don't forget to bring with you your fluids!
GOING TO CLIMBING GYMS AND GIVING IT A TRY MAKES IT SIMPLE TO GET STARTED IN THE SPORT
Did you know that a significant number of climbers got their start in the sport at climbing gyms, which are now rapidly rising in numbers throughout the nation at an unprecedented pace.Â
Plastic holds, color-coded paths, well cushioned flooring, and knowledgeable personnel all contribute to the establishments' status as secure learning spaces. You may also enroll in lessons to improve your strength and learn how to down climb, spot, and fall safely.Â
The gym not only helps you build a community, but it also familiarizes you with different pieces of equipment, terminology, and language. You will get used to the action, and if you surround yourself with other climbers, you will instantly become friends with one another. Isn’t it cool? Yay!
DID YOU KNOW THAT BOULDERS ARE A LOT CLOSER THAN YOU WOULD THINK?
There's no need to stress if you don't have easy access to an indoor climbing gym. It's not only at the gym that you'll find bouldering challenges. If you're looking for ideas on nearby hikes, you can always check the internet for guidebooks and spots that you can try bouldering. The community is larger than you might think and it's easier to pick up information if you are new.Â
Of course most of the spots require you to hike and remember to be mindful of our responsibilities as a hiker. Keep your garbage to yourself, remain on the trails, and respect any restrictions that may be in the area. In other words, when you leave a place, try to leave it in a better state than when you arrived at it.
YOU CAN DO IT EITHER ALONE OR WITH OTHERS
Bouldering doesn't require you to have a belay companion, so you'll be able to go climbing either inside the gym or at the outdoors by yourself, which is convenient in most situations, especially when you find it difficult to coordinate with a partner.
Bouldering, on the other hand, is more often characterized as a “hypersocial” sport since climbers tend to congregate and cheer one another while they do it, and sometimes compete to bring a bit of a challenge. Although being seen can make one feel vulnerable, it doesn't matter how good or bad you are at it, the most impressive thing is to see someone push themselves to their absolute limit. That is what we call a sport for the sport.
BOULDERING IS A GREAT ACTIVITY FOR BUILDING BOTH YOUR PHYSICAL AND MENTAL STRENGTHS
Because bouldering may be so physically challenging, the progression in this activity is often considerably more gradual than in other sports. Instead of being discouraged, you could slow down your pace and give your body a chance to prepare by exercising and training your routines patiently. As you learn how to wait for your skills to progress, appreciating your pace can help improve you mentally. It invokes a sense of maturity and the ability to wait as you consistently do things in order to make yourself better at the sport is a positive sign that your personal character is progressing. Of course having a mindset like this will prevent you from becoming disheartened.Â
Remember that, you’re making progress each time you go, regardless of whether or not you feel like your strength is increasing. You should make it a priority to acquire new knowledge throughout each session, whether it relates to your mental, emotional, physical, or spiritual health in whatever capacity. This should be your objective.
There you have it! We hope you learned something new on what and why bouldering can be a fun addition to your trips. Remember to still practice safety measures and of course, don’t forget to have fun! Be out there and be boundless. Cheers!