Learning to Climb

I’m not your typical first time climber. I’m approaching the big 40 this year. Last year at this time, I sustained a nasty ankle injury that kept me on crutches for nearly 6 months. I’m certainly not in the best of shape, and I’m not at my strongest by any means.

D started climbing about 3 years ago, but his shoulder injuries and surgery kept him sidelined for a good chunk of this past year. He’s slowly getting back into climbing as part of his rehab, and I thought I would be cool to join him to keep him company. I didn’t realize that it would end up being not only great for my own rehab but also a fun challenge for me.

A little over a week ago, I began my climbing journey. We took advantage of the long Independence Day weekend and headed out to the park. We checked out several different climbing/bouldering areas and had fun trying them out.

After D headed back to work, I met him over at the gym to use the indoor climbing wall there. The indoor wall is much better for figuring out techniques on hand and foot placement. I also like that the landing is softer. lol!

At this point in time, I’m not really big on climbing up. I’m much rather stick closer to the ground and just work on solid hand and foot placement. (Don’t ask me why I decided to see if I could squeeze/climb through this area. I just decided to do it for the sake of doing it. Yes, I made it.)

I’m not really strong, so technique is going to be critical for my success. My flexibility is definitely helping me out as I move around. D is tall, so I can’t do the same movements that he does on the wall/rock. I have to find my own way. The good thing is that we’re able to help each other out as we see the problems differently than each other. We bounce ideas off each other as we climb.

Learning to climb is great exercise, and I’m enjoying the challenge that it presents. It also gives us time together which is always a good thing.