I want to begin rock climbing. If I start at an indoor gym, how do I move on from there?

Answer 1

Good on you! Climbing rock, well, rocks!

Someone at the gym will take you out, after all, roped climbing requires a partner. You need to find out which people actually climb outside, and start climbing/hanging with them at the gym so they know you're not a total gomes. Give out your phone number and when the phone rings one day, call in sick to work and go climbing. Offer to pay for gas.

The other alternative (what I did) is start top-roping. Buy a rope, lots of slings, 4 locking biners and ATC and biner. This basic gear will allow you to use trees, boulders and fixed protection to construct anchors, and top-rope climbs up to 30m off the bat. (if you're in the mountains this may not be very practical but in some places you'll find lots of climbs that size. Get a good practical climbing manual (like Freedom of the Hills or maybe a beginners guide that deals mostly with top-roping) and study the pertinent sections well. You should still get someone who knows to come with you the first few times to see how well you constructed your anchors, depending on you and where you're climbing. You will also want a climbing guide book to the area.

Have fun!

Answer 2

I started in a gym also, but wanted to move outside. Find a good sport route in your area. You will need to get a rope, quick draws, some slings, and some locking carabiners. Pick routes you know you can climb because you might fall and you won't be toproped the first time. If you can find a club in your area and you will gain a lot of tips and you may be able to get someone else to lead for you. I would lead if you were in my area.

Answer 3

Talk to the people there, chances are that they know more about the outdoor spots than you, and they might even know someone who will lead you.

Answer 4

eat chips!!