Blog | Vertical Endeavors

Navigating Outdoor Climbing Ethics

Outdoor climbing is a thrilling pursuit that allows individuals to connect with nature while pushing their physical and mental limits. However, as the popularity of climbing grows, so does its impact on the environment. Climbers must be stewards of the outdoors, practicing responsible ethics to minimize their footprint and ensure that climbing areas remain pristine…

Climbing is a Great Full-Body Workout

In recent years, the popularity of climbing as a workout has surged, attracting those who want to stay fit and those who seek some exciting adventures alike. This exhilarating sport not only challenges one’s physical strength and endurance but also tests the body’s flexibility, movement, and resilience. Climbing engages the entire body, providing a comprehensive…

The Return of Climbing Terminology

In our never ending quest to educate the masses to sound like a climber, we return to our growing list of climbing terms and definitions. Previous blog articles (here and here) have explained a few of the basic words and phrases that are part of this exciting sport. Climbers have their own unique language and…

Routesetting: The Art and Science of Indoor Climbing

Indoor climbing has gained immense popularity over the years, attracting adventure enthusiasts, fitness fanatics, and those just looking for a fun activity. One of the key elements that make indoor climbing exciting and challenging is routesetting. Routesetting is the art and science of designing and constructing climbing routes within an indoor climbing facility using the…

What is a Kilonewton and Why is it Important for Climbers to Know?

Have you ever looked at your climbing equipment (carabiners, quickdraws, slings, etc.) and noticed a number with a “kN” following it? That is the symbol for a kilonewton or kilo-newton, which is a measurement to quantify force. Climbing, whether it be rock climbing, mountaineering, or indoor climbing, is a captivating and challenging pursuit that demands…

The Benefits of Climbing

Climbing, both indoors and outdoors, has gained immense popularity in recent years. It is a physically demanding activity that involves ascending natural or artificial structures using specialized equipment to help mitigate the inherent risks. While climbing may seem like a thrilling adventure, it also offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the adrenaline rush. Let us…

Climbing with Children

Climbing with children can be an exciting and rewarding experience. It is an opportunity to introduce kids to a fun physical activity, provide an opportunity to build confidence by pushing through challenges, instill a love for the great outdoors, and foster a sense of adventure. However, it is important to approach climbing with children carefully…

Climb, Recover, Repeat . . .

Climbing is a fun, exhilarating, and challenging activity that tests both your physical and mental strength. Whether you have been climbing for a long time or are just getting started, it is important to take proper care of your body after a climbing session. Recovery is crucial for avoiding injury and ensuring that you are…

Keep Climbing As We Get Older

As we age, our bodies change, and so do our abilities. However, this does not mean that we should stop doing the things we love, such as climbing. As a challenging and rewarding activity, there are many older climbers who continue to climb at a high level. Here are some climbing tips for older climbers…

Become a Stronger Climber

Climbing is a challenging and rewarding sport that requires a unique combination of strength, endurance, technique, and mental focus. As a climber, you are constantly pushing yourself to reach new heights and conquer tougher routes. To become a stronger climber, you need to train both physically and mentally, be patient, and set realistic goals. Let…

Moving from Indoor Climbing to Outdoors

May 1, 2023

Indoor climbing has become an increasingly popular sport. It is a great way to stay active, have fun, get/stay in shape, and challenge yourself mentally and physically. At some point, some who have only climbed indoors begin to think about venturing outdoors to climb. However, transitioning to outdoor climbing can be intimidating. Climbing outdoors requires…

Auto Belays: Pros and Cons

April 24, 2023

An auto belay is a mechanical device that is used in rock climbing to provide an effective and efficient way of lowering a climber to the ground after they have completed their climb. They eliminate the need for a climbing partner who belays the climber, belaying is manually controlling the rope to hold the climber…

You Might Be a Gumby If…

April 17, 2023

PART 2 Gumby (noun) guhm·bee | gu̇mbē An inexperienced, unknowledgeable, and/or oblivious climber; one who lacks coordination, common sense, or know-how. Experienced climbers can spot and cast contemptuous glances at Gumby climbers. However, we should not be too quick to disdain new climbers. They keep our sport alive, interesting, and exciting. Their sense of awe…

You Might Be a Gumby If…

April 7, 2023

Gumby (noun) guhm·bee | gu̇mbē An inexperienced, unknowledgeable, and/or oblivious climber; one who lacks coordination, common sense, or know-how. Gumby is an American clay animation character created and modeled by Art Clokey in the 1950s. He was the subject of a couple television series, a feature-length film, comic books, and other media. Since his first appearance,…

Stopper Knots

March 30, 2023

A stopper knot creates a fixed, thicker point on an otherwise uniform rope preventing the rope from slipping through a narrow hole or retaining device. In climbing a stopper knot helps keep the rope from slipping through the belay device. This protects a climber from potential injury in an extended fall or from potential ground…

Climbing Terminology: More Basic Terms

March 23, 2023

Climbing is a unique sport and has created its own strange and wonderful vocabulary. Whether you are an experienced climber or just beginning, understanding what others are saying is important. Here are more terms that will have you sounding more like a “rock jock” in no time. 1. Traditional or “Trad” Climbing Traditional or “trad”…

Climbing Terminology: A Primer

March 13, 2023

Climbing is an exciting and challenging sport that requires skill, strength, and endurance. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, understanding the terminology associated with climbing is essential. We will explore some of the most common climbing terms to help you communicate more effectively with other climbers and enhance your overall climbing experience.…

Does the Type of Landing Surface Matter?

March 10, 2023

PART 3 – What is the Best Landing Surface for Indoor Climbing Facilities? The best landing surface for an indoor climbing facility is dependent upon the needs, conditions, and type of usage. It should be able to absorb the shock of a climber’s fall and distribute the impact across a large surface area to reduce…

Does the Type of Landing Surface Matter?

March 2, 2023

PART 2 – Types of Landing Surfaces for Indoor Climbing Facilities The risk of falling is one of the inherent risks of climbing. Indoor climbing facilities strive to provide landing surfaces that help prevent or lessen the severity of ground impact injuries. In part 2, we will explore the different types of landing surfaces that…

Does the Type of Landing Surface Matter?

February 24, 2023

PART 1 – What does the Landing Surface in an Indoor Climbing Facility Do? Climbing is an exciting and rewarding sport that can be enjoyed both indoors and outdoors. However, whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, safety must always be your top priority. One of the most important safety considerations for indoor…