Your First Climb: What to Expect in Your First Climbing Session
Indoor climbing is riding a wave of popularity as more and more people are interested in trying it for the first time. We understand why– climbing is incredibly fun and rewarding, while also keeping you active physically and mentally. Indoor gyms provide a supportive social community. If you’re considering taking your first step into the climbing world, we have great news– no experience is necessary to start climbing at your local gym! We’ll outline exactly what you can expect when trying out indoor climbing for the first time.
Before You Arrive
What to wear climbing
Choose comfortable, flexible clothing that permits a full range of motion. Steer clear of loose-fitting clothes that could snag on equipment or block your view of your feet while climbing. Climbing shoes are necessary for all climbing activities.
For bouldering, comfortable clothing and climbing shoes are all you need. For other types of climbing, you'll need a harness, climbing shoes, and a belay device. If you don’t have your own gear, you can rent it for a small fee.
What to bring
It’s a good idea to bring a water bottle and a small towel. We suggest having a light meal before your visit. Feel free to bring your own food and beverages to the gym, but please remember that no food or drink is allowed on the climbing pads. We kindly ask you to clean up after yourself and dispose of any trash appropriately. After your session, you can refuel with a variety of healthy snacks available in our retail area.
When You First Arrive
Check-in process
We’ll check you in at the front desk when you arrive!
Waivers and safety information
Before getting started, you’ll need to sign a waiver. Climbing is a risky activity that carries various potential dangers, such as falls, injuries, and accidents. The waiver is a legal document that confirms individuals understand and voluntarily accept these risks.
You can sign the waiver during check-in or create an account online to complete it in advance. We also recommend downloading the Coeur Climbing portal app on your phone, where you can sign your waiver, update details for household members, and speed up your check-in process at the gym.
Facility tour overview
Our facility features bouldering and roped climbing walls, a retail section, a yoga studio/event space, a general fitness area, and a dedicated kids' climbing zone. To explore our space, feel free to take a virtual tour by visiting the gallery!
Getting Equipped
Rental gear explained
Shoes: Climbing shoes are specifically designed footwear that help your feet flex and grip the wall. You don’t need these as a beginner, but as you advance, they will make a big difference! Our knowledgeable staff (all avid climbers themselves) can help you choose the right shoe when you need it.
Harness: A climbing harness allows you to connect securely to a rope for roped climbing and be caught in case of a fall. We’ll help you fit and adjust your harness, and teach you how to tie in to a rope correctly.
Chalk: There are different types of chalk for different needs, but all serve the basic function of helping your hands grip the holds.
The Basics You'll Learn
Climbing terminology for beginners
Climbing has its own lingo, like any sport. Here’s a guide to common climbing terminology!
Types of climbing available
We provide five different types of indoor rock climbing options: bouldering, top rope climbing, lead climbing, auto belay climbing, and a special area for kids. Anyone looking to climb with a rope must successfully complete a specific test administered by our staff. The requirements for these tests differ based on the type of climbing you want to do. Also note that for top rope climbing and lead climbing, you’ll need a partner, while for bouldering and auto belay climbing, you can climb independently.
Basic climbing techniques and body positioning
Make sure you warm up properly before climbing. Practice planning out where you will step and what to reach for before you begin. As you go, use your legs to power your body, not your arms. Pay attention to where you place your feet, and keep a loose but stable grip on the holds. For stability, engage your core and keep your hips toward the wall. See this post on how to improve your skills even when you’re short on time!
Your First Routes
What beginner routes look like
Each climbing route or problem is identified by a specific starting hold and a V rating that indicates its difficulty. For top rope and lead climbing, preset ropes mark the designated routes. In bouldering, problems are color-coded and assigned a difficulty rating. The route’s grade is displayed on start tags next to the starting hold(s).
As you progress along the route, you should only use holds that match the designated color. You will know you've reached the end of the route when you see a finish tag located either on the last hold of the climb or at the top of the wall, indicating that the top of the wall is the finishing hold. With this system, any color route can represent any difficulty; the important thing is to follow only one color for each specific route.
If you’re a beginner, we recommend starting at V0. You’ll need some time to get accustomed to being on the wall, moving, and safely dropping down. Once you feel comfortable, you can begin to progress through the grades. Look for routes labeled with lower grades, such as V0-V2 for bouldering or 5.5-5.7 for top rope climbing.
Setting realistic expectations for first-time achievements
Don’t be discouraged if you can’t get as far as you expected! Focus on the fun and joy of climbing and your skills will improve with practice. Remember, everyone was a beginner once. On the flip side, many beginners find that they can progress very quickly at first and then reach a period of stagnant progress later on… but that’s a different topic!
The feeling of completing your first climb
Nothing beats the exhilaration of conquering your first route. It’s this addictive thrill that will keep you coming back for more!
What to Expect Physically
Normal physical sensations
Unusual muscle soreness / finger and hand fatigue - First-timers may feel some new muscle soreness in forearms, fingers, shoulders, and upper back. The small muscles and tendons in your fingers aren't typically stressed this way in daily life, so you may notice soreness there.
Core engagement awareness - Many beginners don't realize climbing is a full-body activity requiring significant core strength. They might feel unexpected abdominal engagement or soreness the next day.
Callus formation - The friction between hands and holds begins forming calluses even after just one session. This isn't painful, but may be noticeable.
Elevated heart rate - Climbing combines strength and cardio elements, so new climbers often find themselves breathing harder than expected, especially when working through challenging sections.
Mild dehydration - Many beginners don't drink enough water during their session and may feel unusually thirsty afterward.
Mental fatigue - The problem-solving aspect of climbing can be mentally taxing, leading to a unique kind of tired that combines physical and mental exhaustion.
Adrenaline effects - For those with any fear of heights, they might experience adrenaline responses (elevated heart rate, sweaty palms, heightened focus) that can actually be energizing once managed.
Post-climbing energy boost - Despite the fatigue, many new climbers experience an endorphin rush and sense of accomplishment that creates a positive mood afterward.
"Climber's vision" - New climbers often report seeing potential hand and foot holds everywhere after their first session (on buildings, walls, etc.) as their brain starts processing the world differently.
Simple tips to avoid excessive soreness and fatigue
Take breaks between climbs to shake out your arms
Don't death-grip the holds (a common beginner mistake)
Start with shorter, easier routes and gradually build endurance
Remember to breathe while climbing– many beginners hold their breath during difficult moves
Manage your energy throughout your session
Make sure you stretch before and after to aid in recovery
Next Steps After Your First Session
Progression path for beginners
Once you’ve gotten a taste of the fun, what’s next? You may want to sign up for one of our classes to help advance your skills. We have an Intro to Climbing class, Learn to Belay, Learn to Lead, and we even offer personalized one-on-one instruction. You may also decide to save money with a ten-punch pass for your next climbing sessions.
Community events for newcomers
Be sure to sign up for our email newsletter so you’re up to date on all the community events happening at the gym. This is a great way to connect with other climbers of all levels!
We hope this helped you understand what to expect on your first climb, and that now you feel empowered and energized to jump in to climbing. Remember, you can reach out to us with any questions, and our staff is here to help. We’re thrilled to support you on your journey into the wonderful world of climbing!
