Indoor climbing is an increasingly popular form of rock climbing performed on artificial structures that attempt to mimic the experience of outdoor rock.

The proliferation of indoor climbing gyms has increased the accessibility, and thus the popularity of the sport of climbing. Since environmental conditions (ranging from the structural integrity of the climbing surfaces, to equipment wear and proper use of equipment) can be more controlled in such a setting, indoor climbing is perhaps a safer and friendlier introduction to the sport. Many rock gyms are settings for birthday parties and youth teams.

Indoor climbing has also seen an increase in popularity in areas with rainy climates where climbing outdoors is sometimes difficult. Besides offering an alternative during inclement weather, many working adults find that they can get to the gym after work and still climb even though it is too dark outside. In order to improve in any sport, consistent practice is crucial. With the advent of indoor climbing, weather, seasonal difficulties, and busy schedules are less of an obstacle to consistent improvement, and enjoyment of the sport.

Most climbing competitions are held in climbing gyms, making them a part of indoor climbing.

Compared with Outdoor Climbing:
There are a few differences in techniques, style and equipment between sport climbing outdoors and indoors. Climbing artificial climbing walls, especially indoors is much safer because of controlled environmental conditions. During indoor climbing, holds are easily visible in contrast with natural walls where finding a good hold or foothold may be a challenge. Climbers on artificial walls are somewhat restricted to the holds prepared by the route setter whereas on natural walls they can use every slope or crack in the surface of the wall. Some typical rock formations can be difficult to emulate on climbing walls.

Indoor Climbing Wall Construction:
The most common construction method involves screwing resin hand holds on to climbing wall panels. The panels can be of varying height & steepness and have a large variety of holds attached. This variety, coupled with the ability for the climbs to be changed by attaching the holds onto the wall differently, has resulted in indoor climbing becoming a very successful sport.

Climbing Gym Equipment
Proper climbing equipment must be used during indoor climbing. Most climbing gyms lend harnesses, ropes and belay devices. Some also lend climbing shoes and chalk bags, etc.

Fun Indoor Climbing Wall
In more and more climbing gyms, fun walls are more and more popular because they are innovative and more interesting. Features of fun walls include:

• Suitable for all ages from 4+
• No previous climbing experience is required
• Different cray climbing challenges to attempt
• Fully automated safety systems: just clip in and climb up
• All sessions are fully supervised by qualified instructors

JP Development provides various fun indoor climbing walls. To get them, inquire now!