1. Warm up the rig

When I started bouldering, I remember being so sore and fatigued that it took two hands to put fuel into my old Subaru. It wasn’t a proud moment, so trust me when I say a good warm-up is time well spent.
Bouldering is the ultimate full-body workout, so make sure you take the time to prepare. Pay special attention to your fingers, wrists and shoulders, and ensure you ease into climbing by sticking to grades you are comfortable with (no showing off for the Mrs or Mr).

2. Take a free beginners’ class

Boulder Co. gyms offer free beginners’ classes every week that give you a crash course in climbing fundamentals.
We’ll teach you everything you need to know to get the most out of your first sessions, including safety, basic technique and movement tips. Plus, it’s a great way to make a few new mates!

3. Learn the etiquette

These simple etiquette rules will take you from climbing Jerry to local legend.

• Take turns on climbs
  Have a burn. If you fall, take a step back and let someone else have a go.

• Give way
  Check if the climb you want to try intersects with another climb. If it does, whoever starts climbing first has the right of way. Hold off on starting your climb until the wall is free.

• Don’t beta-spray
  Beta is the specific sequence of movements and body positions needed to complete a climb. Essentially, it’s the method to the madness. Solving boulder problems is a massive part of the enjoyment for a lot of climbers, so never give advice unless they ask for it.

• Stay clear of landing zones
  Keep yourself and your gear away from the wall and areas where people could land. By all means yarn to your mates (it’s one of the best bits about climbing) but do it away from the walls.

• Downclimb when possible
  The big grey holds with down-arrows on them are your key to a comfortable retreat from the top of each boulder. Use these and your mates, and your knees, will thank you.

4. Relax your grip

New climbers often over-grip holds, relying heavily on their arms and neglecting their legs (including yours truly).
While it’s easier said than done, relaxing your arms and shoulders and climbing with straight arms allows you to put more weight on your feet, helps you climb longer, and has the added bonus of being able to see where to place your feet.

5. Don’t stress the grades

Climbing up through the grades is a great motivator, and apps like Beta Bud make tracking your progress exciting and rewarding.
Just make sure you focus on technique and, most importantly, enjoyment rather than just chasing the hard stuff. The fitness and progression will come—trust the process!