There are often different types of sessions available on climbing walls and choosing the wrong one can make your first experience at climbing walls a less positive one.
Open Climb or Structured Class
When looking for a climbing wall session it is worth knowing that there are two main formats in which climbing walls are run. Open sessions where you can climb as and when you like for as long as you like and structured classes that are coached through a set program. Beginner classes are great for complete beginners as they can teach you the climbing techniques as well as safety aspects of the sport. For people who have climbed before, open sessions are great as you can climb at your own level without being stuck in a class with other people.
Match the Session to Your Grade
Climbing walls use a colour coded system or numbers to grade their climbs. Most sessions on walls are open to climbers of all grades. Before booking it is worthwhile to check the wall’s website to see what grades a particular session is suited for. Some intermediate and advanced sessions are designed for confident climbers and assume a certain level of ability. Recognised climbing grades and climbing session types used across UK climbing walls are outlined below.
Solo or Group Booking
Sessions can be booked as solo sessions or as group bookings, with some sessions specifically being designed for social climbing. These types of sessions are usually better for mixed ability groups as climbers of all abilities are welcome and the sessions are usually conducted with a shared group briefing at the start of the session.
What to Check Before You Book
Compare the sessions to see if they need to be pre-booked and other key details such as whether or not shoes are included in the price or if there is an induction required for beginners.
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A few minutes of your time checking these details beforehand could save you a wasted trip.
