Climbing
Rock climbing with ropes can be done indoors and outdoors. In indoor climbing you make your way up a wall by following a series of coloured grips, known as 'holds.'
An Overview of Climbing
Climbing can be done indoors – on a indoor climbing wall – or outside – on a crag. Climbing can be recreational or competitive. In competitive climbing, the three formats are lead, speed, and boulder.
Para (adaptive) climbing is for people with a variety of disabilities, including those with a visual impairment.
Benefits
- Climbing builds stamina
- Great for improving muscle-tone
- Good for concentration
Involvement
The UK Paraclimbing Collective is a charity started by a group of like-minded para climbers who feel passionate about improving access to climbing. Climbers of all ability levels are welcomed by the GB para climbing team!
The first international para climbing competition was held in 2003 in France. The sport has become more popular and the first World Championship was held in 2011 by the International Federation of Sport Climbing.
Details of upcoming events through the UK Paraclimbing Collective can be found on their website, including details about the British Para Climbing Series and the Para Climbing World Championships.
Sight classifications are important to ensure fair and equal competition. Success at competitions should be defined by an athlete's skill and ability, not their impairment. The sight classifications should give all athletes the confidence that they are competing against others equally.
Useful Links
Adaptations and Equipment
Climbing equipment includes ropes, a harness, carabiners, belay devices, quickdraws, climbing shoes, a helmet, and chalk for grip. Most indoor or wall climbing facilities will provide basic safety equipment.
Climbers with a visual impairment have a sighted guide. This person gives them instructions about holds and moves from the ground.
Find Climbing Clubs/Groups Near You
Use the search below to find local organisations near you.
National Governing Bodies
British Mountaineering Council
- Contact Name
- General Information
- Contact Email
- office@thebmc.co.uk
- Contact Telephone
- 0161 445 6111
The Climbing Station
A bouldering centre in Loughborough run for climbers, by climbers. We have over 800sqm of bouldering surface, covering almost every angle that you can possibly think of. We have a top rope wall that can be used by both kids and adults, and training facili
1st Woodville (St .Stephens) Scouts
1st Woodville (St Stephens) Scout Group is located in Woodville in the Heart of the National Forest in South Derbyshire. Join us on our adventure! Face the challenges, develop new skills, work as a team and make lasting memories.
Green Bank Leisure Centre
Green Bank Leisure Centre in Swadlincote brings a whole host of activity to the local community through its range of facilities to help you enjoy getting active.
Hinckley Ramblers
Located in Hinckley and have been offering walks for 47years, the area's leading walking/hiking group
We offer Walks 3 times a week and
are members of HBC Ramblers Walking for Health on Burbage Common.
We currently have 210 members on file
Rock Climbing
Our rock climbing sessions are the perfect opportunity for those looking for a bit of adventure alongside their exercise. This activity offers rock climbing sessions tailored for those with complex disabilities and sensory impairments.
Wild Women Outdoor Club
A Leicester Outdoor Pursuits Centre initiative for women to participate in a variety of activities.
SASP Sport Welfare Officers Forum
A online meeting for Sports Club Welfare & Safeguarding Officers based in Somerset.
You're invited to attend our club welfare forum for anyone involved in sport and physical activity in Somerset, but in particular those in your clubs who hold the role of 'club welfare officer' or 'safeguarding lead'.
If you're the Safeguarding or Welfare Officer at your Sports Club, please join Tracey Sweetland, Somerset Sport Welfare Officer at SASP to learn about local support and opportunities to assist you in your volunteer role.
SASP Sport Welfare Officers Forum
A online meeting for Sports Club Welfare & Safeguarding Officers based in Somerset.
You're invited to attend our club welfare forum for anyone involved in sport and physical activity in Somerset, but in particular those in your clubs who hold the role of 'club welfare officer' or 'safeguarding lead'.
If you're the Safeguarding or Welfare Officer at your Sports Club, please join Tracey Sweetland, Somerset Sport Welfare Officer at SASP to learn about local support and opportunities to assist you in your volunteer role.