Sports Climbing Basics

Did you know there is a difference between rock climbing and sports climbing? Once again REI has written a valuable article on sports climbing basics. From sports climbing tactics to sports climbing gear…

What Is Sport Climbing?

Sport climbing is more like a sprint than a marathon. It involves high-intensity, difficult climbing on relatively short routes. Its distinguishing characteristics include preplanned routes, fixed anchors and an emphasis on the physical aspect of the climb rather than the destination or summit.

In sport climbing, it’s normal and expected for a climber to fall, often repeatedly, as he or she works out a difficult move. In traditional climbing, the climber typically takes care not to fall and stress the anchors he or she is placing. Again, it’s the journey rather than the destination that is the focus of sport climbs. MORE …