Planning your first visit to the bouldering wall can be easier by knowing roughly how long a session will last and what time to arrive.
Summary
Most bouldering sessions are approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours long. Many beginners find that an hour is sufficient. On your first visit allow an extra 20-30 minutes for registration, waiver and a short safety talk. The quietest times are weekday mornings and early afternoons, rather than evenings and weekends. If you feel your forearms getting pumped, it’s probably time to stop for the day!
How Long a Typical Session Lasts
For the majority of climbers a bouldering session can last anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours. Many new climbers find that an hour is sufficient to try a variety of problems but regular climbers can spend up to 2.5 hours on the walls.
Extra Time on Your First Visit
Allow 20-30 minutes at the venue on your first visit to complete registration, sign a waiver and complete a short induction session to explain the venue layout and discuss the basics of safety on the walls. This ensures that you can get climbing as soon as possible and spend the rest of your session actually climbing rather than using your best energy to complete administrative tasks.
Peak Times Versus Quieter Slots
Weekend mornings and weekday evenings are the busiest times of the week, especially for the most popular problems. The quieter times are weekday mornings and early afternoons, ideal for new climbers.
Drop-In or Pre-Booked Slots
Some gyms can be dropped into for sessions, but for others you can book in advance for specific time slots. If you want Bouldering Cheltenham, https://www.270climbing.com/ is a good place to start.
Knowing When to Stop
Your forearms will tell you when you have completed the bouldering you are able to do. A heavy and pumped feeling in your grip indicates that your grip strength has been used up and you risk doing yourself some damage by trying to climb further. The quality of your climbing effort is more important than the length of time you have spent on the wall. Planning a bouldering session can ensure an enjoyable time.
FAQs
What should I wear for bouldering?
Wear comfortable clothing that will allow you to stretch and move freely. This can be things like leggings, loose-fitting trousers and a T-shirt. Climbing shoes are needed for the climbing wall and most climbing centres will allow first-time climbers to hire a pair of shoes. This can usually be arranged when you book.
Do I need a partner to go bouldering?
No. You can go bouldering on your own as it is practised on low walls with no ropes or belayer needed and thick crash mats underneath. Many people go bouldering with friends to try and complete the same problems as each other.
How do I fall safely?
Climb down when you can rather than jumping off the top. If you do fall, aim to land on both feet with knees bent. Then roll back on the mat and avoid putting your arms out to break your fall as this is a common cause of wrist injuries.
Is bouldering a good group activity?
It can be a good group activity, because everyone can climb at their own level on the same wall. It doesn’t need any special equipment to be set up, which is why it’s often chosen for social events and work outings. Our guide to planning your very first team building event gives more ideas for organising a team building event.