Too Old to Start Climbing? Nope!
You may think climbing is only for teenagers or elite athletes, but that’s not true! Climbing is fun and accessible for all ages.
While many people do start climbing at a young age, there are plenty of others who started later in life and still made great progress and developed a love for the sport. In fact, some very notable and successful climbers started later in life, including Chuck Odette, who became the oldest person to claim a 5.14 first ascent at age 61, and Dierdre Wolownick, who jugged El Cap with her son Alex Honnold after starting climbing at age 55.
The Benefits of Climbing for Adults
Low-impact strength training: Climbing can be a low-impact activity, as opposed to activities like running that jolt and strain the joints. Climbing involves controlled movements that minimize that impact. Those controlled movements engage most of the muscles in the body– including arms, legs, shoulders, glutes, back, and core– making it a full-body strengthening activity.
Cardio workout: If you’re looking for an alternative to activities like running, climbing is a great option. Something you may not know is that climbing is also an effective cardio workout– in fact, one study found that indoor climbing required the same amount of energy as running 8-11 minutes per mile.
Mental benefits: Problem-solving is huge part of what makes climbing fun. If you love puzzles and strategy games, this will appeal to you! You’ll get a mental workout as well as a physical one.
Stress relief: Many people find climbing to really help them manage stress and achieve a more mindful state.
Social benefits: Climbing gyms are welcoming communities where people make friends and encourage each other.
Common Concerns for Older Beginners (Don’t Worry!)
Fear of injury: Indoor climbing gyms are a controlled environment, and beginner routes are designed to be accessible for those with limited (or no) experience. You can climb at your own pace, and you don’t need to challenge yourself more than you want to. There are plenty of ways to help minimize your risk of injury too.
Not feeling strong enough: Strength develops over time, and technique matters more than brute force. You will find yourself getting stronger faster than you think, though!
Feeling out of place: Climbing gyms have climbers of all ages, and the community is welcoming and supportive.
What to Expect When You Start Climbing as an Adult
You’ll need to learn the basics: technique, safety, and movement.
Familiarize yourself with the gear: shoes, chalk, and harness.
Build up your confidence by starting slowly and working your way up!
How to Progress Safely and Effectively as an Older Climber
Listen to your body. Rest and recovery are just as important as training.
Focus on technique over strength to reduce injury risk.
Consider taking an intro class to learn the fundamentals and meet other beginners.
Why It’s Never Too Late to Start Climbing
Many climbers start in their 30s, 40s, 50s, or beyond and still make incredible progress.
Climbing is about personal growth, not competition—start where you are and enjoy the journey.
You don’t have to climb every day to get better! You’ll see improvements just by showing up consistently.
Ready to Get Started? Here’s What to Do Next
Visit us at Coeur Climbing! We have everything you need for a beginner-friendly session.
Rent gear, talk to staff, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. We’re here to help!
Consider signing up for an Intro to Climbing class to learn the basics quickly.
Download our community app to track your progress and connect with other beginner climbers.
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the process!
