Beginner Climbing Guide
Hi there! Megan here, Sales and Marketing Manager for Inner Peaks. I’ve been with Inner Peaks for over three years, and I created this beginner climbing guide for anyone curious about indoor rock climbing but unsure where to start. A little about me: I’ve always been an athlete, jumping between volleyball, tennis, and golf. After college, though, organized sports were behind me, and intramural leagues just weren’t doing it. That’s when I found indoor climbing through a college class (thanks, Indiana University!). Seven years later, I’m still climbing and loving the journey.
This beginner climbing guide is here to give you the tools and confidence to take the leap into climbing and connect with an incredible community.
Why Climbing? Why Now?
Indoor climbing isn’t just a workout. It’s an adventure! You’ll challenge your body and mind while connecting with a supportive, welcoming community. Whether your looking to try something new, build strength, or just have fun, climbing is a space for all that and more.
What to Know Before You Start
No experience? No problem! Our staff will walk you through everything. It might feel tough at first because most of us haven’t used these muscles since our playground days. I like to tell people climbing is like an adult recess and it feels like solving a fun, physical puzzle. Who doesn’t love that! Let’s start with the basics.
Essentials:
- Wear comfortable athletic clothing you can move in
- We’ve got all the gear rentals you’ll need
- If you’d rather skip rentals, make sure to bring closed-toe shoes
- Climbing shoes can feel snug. Try sizing up a half a size to start
- Most importantly: there’s no pressure! Climbers are encouraging on day one!
*Want to know more about gear? Check it out here.
Your First Visits
Visit 1: Getting Started
- Learn the grading system (V-scale for bouldering or the Yosemite Decimal System for rope climbs.
- If you’re bouldering, practice climbing down and falling safely
- Ask our staff for tips to boost confidence as you explore
Visits 2 and 3: Settling In
- Find your style (overhangs, slabs, or vertical walls)
- Learn about hold types (jug, sloper, pinch, crimp, pocket)
- Discover the power of beta (advice or strategies for a climb).
- Experience the camaraderie. Climbers genuinely want you to succeed!
*Not familiar with climbing lingo yet? Check out our quick glossary below or our more comprehensive article here.
How to Meet People
Climbing is a social sport, and the community is one of its best parts.
- Cheer others on or congratulate them after a climb.
- Ask for beta or join someone working on the same climb.
- Offer to “project” a climb together and solve the puzzle as a team.
How to Get Involved
Want to dive deeper?
- Sign up for our newsletter to see upcoming events like competitions, climbing film screenings, and meetups.
- Say hi to the Carolina Climber’s Coalition or chat with staff about ways to contribute to coaching, leading meetups, or volunteering.
Beginner Tips to Build Strength
Focus on consistency: climb 2-3 times a week for 1.5-2 hours per session. Strength comes naturally when you commit to quality sessions and have fun along the way. Start with VB-V1 climbs, and let your body adjust. The best progress happens when you keep it lighthearted and playful. Want more training guides? Check out how to measure your training progress here.
Glossary of Climbing Terms
Jug: Large, easy to hold grips
Sloper: Smooth, rounded holds requiring technique
Pinch: Holds squeezed with thumb and fingers
Crimp: Small holds for fingertips only
Pocket: Holds with small openings for one or two fingers
Projecting: Working on solving a challenging climb over multiple attempts
Beta: Tips or strategies to complete a climb
Traverse: Climbing horizontally across a wall
V Scale: The grading system for boulders, ranging from VB (easiest) to V17 (hardest)
Yosemite Decimal System: Grades rope climbs (e.g. 5.6 to 5.15)
Figure 8: A knot used for securing a climber to a rope
Lead Climbing: Climbing with a rope clipped into quickdraws as you ascend
Sport Climbing: Rope climbing on walls with pre-placed anchors
Boulder Climbing: Short, unroped climbs with padded mats below
Top Rope Climbing: Rope climbing with an anchor system already in place
Let’s get climbing! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out or ask our staff during your visit. We’re cheering you on.
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