Why I Swapped The Gym For Indoor Bouldering: My 5-Month Bouldering Journey And Why It's A Game Changer For Fun And Fitness

I wouldn't call myself a bouldering expert.

However, I have spent 5 months reading and learning about bouldering (rock climbing without a rope or harness) and probably 50 hours practising on the wall.

At first, I thought bouldering was silly

I mean, adults don't climb up walls for fun, do they?

I hadn't considered that bouldering:

• Would be so mentally challenging.
• Could be such a great form of physical exercise.
• With other people and climbing up walls would be ridiculously fun!

Then, I started looking forward to my weekly climbing session

I felt like a kid who gets excited when it's time for recess.

When my 2-week trial membership finished, I didn't hesitate to buy a full membership at my climbing gym. I was already noticing the mental, physical, and social benefits of climbing.

Finally, I got hooked on bouldering

Bouldering became the highlight of my week.

I felt myself getting stronger after every climb. I started learning how to read the holds and position my body on the wall. I started making friends with all sorts of new people.

So, here's my goal over the next 6 months:

To climb twice a week, every week.

As a novice climber, quantity (lots of climbs) is more important than difficulty (harder climbs).