So, I’m interested in getting into rock climbing/a climbing gym. I had a bit of a discussion about this in a previous thread. My main concern is my build. I’m 31 years old, 6’5, 260ish lbs and have size 16 extra wide feet. I do lift weights 3-5 times a week so I’m physically strong. I also climb around shit at work semi frequently, which is where I decided I think I’d enjoy it. I’m nervous about if a gym will have equipment that can support me and if it’s really a sport/hobby that works for an ogre like me. How do I find a “good” gym amd what makes it “good”. Past experience with Brazilian jujitsu taught me that every gym has its own culture you have to navigate and choose. Is climbing the same way?
I used to go to the climbing gym many years ago. A few things I found helped a lot.
-Get a finger tension exercise device to strengthen ability to hold with just your finger tips.
-start with bouldering if your local gym has a bouldering area, it lets you learn the positioning that will let you distribute your weight across your limbs without having to harness up or need a belayer.
-it isn’t always about upper body strength, your legs do a lot more than you think because they don’t tire as much as your arms will.
Great info, thank you!