How to start bouldering

Are you looking for a new and exciting activity to get involved in? Bouldering at The Climbing Academy (TCA) is the perfect way to get into climbing. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced climber, our centers offer a welcoming and fun environment to learn and improve your skills. Here’s your guide to starting bouldering at TCA.

You don’t need to book a course to get started. Just check prices and turn up. No booking required. You can complete forms online in advance to save time or at reception.

What is Bouldering?

Bouldering: low-level climbing without ropes

Bouldering is a type of climbing that involves scaling low-level rock formations or artificial walls without ropes. If you’re wondering how to start bouldering, it’s easy and accessible for beginners. Bouldering problems, or climbs, are typically only a few meters high and can feature various angles, from overhangs to delicate slabs. Indoors it’s easy to spot the coloured problems which indicate difficulty. Climbers try to unlock the moves that will allow them to reach the top of the problem.  Alternatively, climbers may also traverse by moving horizontally across the wall, staying closer to the ground.

Whether you’re new to climbing or looking to try something different, bouldering offers a fun and challenging way to get started.

Getting Started with Bouldering

Entry-level climbing made easy

One of the best things about bouldering is its accessibility. You don’t need to take a course or learn complex techniques. To start bouldering at TCA, just complete a few forms, watch a safety video, and you’re ready to climb. We welcome climbers of all ages, though under-16s must be supervised by a registered adult. Adults over 18 can supervise up to two under-16s per visit.

The History of Bouldering

From training method to popular sport

Bouldering began as a training method for roped climbing, helping climbers practice specific moves for outdoor climbs. Over time, it evolved into a standalone sport, attracting enthusiasts who appreciate its unique challenges. Today, both bouldering and roped climbing have dedicated followers and many climbers enjoy both disciplines.

Climbing Independently

No partner needed

Bouldering is ideal if you prefer climbing independently. You don’t need a lot of gear or a partner, making it a convenient and flexible activity. While TCA’s community-oriented environment makes it easy to meet new friends, you can also enjoy climbing solo without waiting for a partner.

Meeting other climbers

To meet fellow climbers, try engaging with those tackling the same or nearby problems. Asking questions like, “Have you tried this problem?” or “How did you complete this one?” can spark conversations and lead to helpful tips and new friendships – or ask staff about social meet ups or clubs that exist in some centres.

Essential Gear for Bouldering

What you need to start

All you need to start bouldering is a pair of climbing shoes, which you can rent at TCA. Chalk is also recommended to improve your grip, especially if your hands get sweaty. TCA offers both traditional chalk and liquid chalk, so you can find what works best for you.

Bouldering outdoors?

If you decide to take your bouldering skills outdoors, a bouldering mat is essential for cushioning falls. While TCA provides mats for indoor climbing, these don’t completely eliminate the risk of injury.

Understanding Bouldering Grades 

Climbing grades explained

Bouldering grades indicate the difficulty of a problem. It’s simple: the higher the number, the harder the climb. You can see what grade the setters have assigned to a problem via Griptonite. At TCA, we use the Fontainebleau scale.

Problems are colour-coded according to their difficulty level – see signs in centres. Beginners should start with easier grades, which have larger holds. Starting holds are indicated by coloured discs. If you need help identifying the start or finish holds, our staff are always ready to assist.

Have Fun and Climb Safely

No pressure, just enjoy

While bouldering grades help guide you through different difficulty levels, the main goal is to have fun. Feel free to experiment with different holds and routes without worrying about reaching the top every time. We encourage “rainbowing,” where you use holds of various colours. Remember, the key is to enjoy your climb and progress at your own pace.

Plan your visit

Find opening times and addresses for your nearest locations, see prices or complete your form before your first visit. We hope to welcome you soon. Our staff will be happy to talk you through everything you need to know.

Tips for improving

If you’re looking to enhance your climbing skills, consider our Movement and Technique course, perfect for those who have climbed at least five times. This course provides valuable tips and tricks to help you climb more efficiently and confidently.

Book Movement and Technique in Bristol
Book Movement and Technique in Glasgow

All TCA centres have bouldering facilities, although please note that The Church is primarily a roped climbing centre.