Overcoming Fear of Heights in Climbing
Fear of heights is very common. While it’s estimated that only about 3-5% of the population experience acrophobia (a severe phobia of heights), mild anxiety affects many more people. If you want to climb but you’re worried about getting up high, you’re not alone. The good news? The controlled environment of a climbing gym offers an effective way to gradually overcome your fear.
Why Fear of Heights is Normal
First of all, understand that you’re in good company! Fear of heights is a natural instinct that has helped keep humans alive. Even experienced climbers deal with it. You’d be surprised! Nervousness around heights does not have to stop you from enjoying the sport, or even from excelling at it. Many climbers deal with overcoming fear of heights. If you have acrophobia or severe fear, you can seek additional support from a qualified mental health professional, who can help you in a more comprehensive way. For less severe fears, here’s how you can work through it at the climbing gym.
How Indoor Climbing Helps Overcome Fear of Heights
In the gym, you have control over how high and fast you want to go. You can start with just one foot off the ground, if that’s what feels best to you! And you can progress at your own pace. Don’t worry, we have people in ALL stages of their climbing journey at our gym, so you can feel completely comfortable with wherever you are. Some ways the controlled environment of the gym can help:
Professional-grade equipment and trained staff
Soft landing zones (crash pads) for bouldering
Harnesses and rope systems for roped climbing
Staff and other climbers are nearby for support
Why Bouldering is Beginner-Friendly
Coeur Climbing focuses on bouldering, and there are some specific advantages to bouldering when you’re addressing fear of heights.
Start at ankle height, not 30 feet up - Unlike roped climbing, bouldering allows people to literally begin inches off the ground.
No harnesses, no ropes, no complex equipment - Removes the intimidation factor of technical gear that can increase anxiety.
Immediate escape route - You can always climb down or simply step off, giving complete control.
See your landing zone - Thick crash pads are visible and reassuring.
You learn to fall properly - Part of bouldering is learning the correct way to fall to prevent injury. Practicing this can really help reduce the fear factor!
You climb as high as feels comfortable - whether that's two feet or twenty - and you're always in complete control of coming back down.
These factors make bouldering a great first step for climbers who are fearful about heights.
Why Indoor Gyms are Great for Nervous Climbers
Gradual height transitions - Unlike outdoor crags, our walls allow for smooth progression.
Always within conversation distance - In a smaller space, climbers never feel isolated or too high to communicate.
Ground-level observation - Family/friends can stay close and supportive throughout the climb.
Progressive wall angles - Start on slabs, move to vertical, eventually overhangs.
Strategic hold placement - Routesetters create sequences for all skill levels.
Supportive Climbing Community Helps Build Confidence
Small gym, big support - Unlike massive climbing facilities, everyone knows everyone and staff can provide personalized attention.
We remember your progress - Because we get to know our climbers, we can give advice on your progression, and celebrate victories with you!
Friendly atmosphere - We’re proud to have built a non-intimidating, encouraging community.
Multi-generational climbing - A family-oriented gym like ours means that families can work through fears together, with kids often helping parents gain confidence.
Mental Benefits of Climbing
A huge part of climbing is mental. When your brain is in problem-solving mode, you’re less susceptible to anxious spirals. Each successful move you make can help build your confidence and help create positive associations. Over time, improved balance and spatial awareness can also help reduce height anxiety!
FAQ: Can I Try Climbing if I’m Scared of Heights?
Can I climb if I'm scared of heights? Yes—climbing gyms are designed to help you build your comfort level gradually and confidently.
Do I need to go high to get a good workout? Not at all. You can get a great climb on lower routes and still improve technique, strength, and confidence.
What if I freeze or panic? Our staff is always nearby to help you down safely and support your comfort level.
Do I have to wear a harness? Not for bouldering! You can climb without ropes in a padded area, which many beginners find more approachable.
Real Success Stories
We’ve had the privilege of helping our younger climbers overcome their fears in our summer camps.
Josiah, age 11: “When I started camp, I couldn't get up the easiest boulder problem (VB or V0) because I was afraid of the height, even though the climbing was easy. My friend, Trent, showed me how to use my feet better and not get all tensed up. I was able to get up my first boulder problem, and now I can get up harder grades.
Juniper, age 7: "When I started Coeur Climbing Camp, I was really afraid of heights and didn't want to go far from the ground. Pyper (my camp counselor) encouraged me to climb up one higher hold each time I tried. Finally, I was able to reach the top. The small movements up helped me trust myself more each time. Now, I can get to the top a lot."
Trent, age 12: “Your mind is what stops you from overcoming your fear of heights. I practice mental focus in Jujitsu. This helps me to mentally prepare for climbing as well. My camp counselor, Owen, helped me focus on route reading and going through all the moves on the ground before trying the route. This helped me prepare for when I would be up high, and focus on the small area right in front of me instead of the height."
Your Next Steps
We hope we’ve reassured you that fear of heights is normal and conquerable, and it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the fun of climbing. You don’t have to be fearless to start– you just have to take the first step. Our experienced team at Coeur Climbing specializes in helping climbers of all comfort levels find their confidence. First time climbing? Here’s what you can expect. And we’ve also written about our top tips for beginner climbers. Visit us today!
