If you’re looking to start sport climbing or bouldering Cheltenham, you’ll need to find a gym. It’s the best place to start working on fitness and endurance, improve your technique and have fun.
Location and pricing
Let’s start with the basics. The best climbing gym is the one that’s a 10-15 minute walk away, not a drive or bus ride. Before you commit to a membership, buy a day pass and have a good look at what’s on offer so you know whether it’s the right gym for you. Don’t forget opening hours. If the gym isn’t open when you get home from work, it’s not for you.
Routes and facilities
Climbing is a great way to get fit, so look for routes that challenge your abilities from beginner to advanced and are clearly labelled. Your gym should also change things up frequently to keep you interested, and run regular safety courses so you can climb safely. Look out for recovery facilities and other fitness classes like strength training and yoga for climbers.
Social activities
Climbing is a social activity, so look for a gym like //www.270climbing.com with a real buzz. You should feel welcome and supported, especially if you’re trying it out for the first time. Staff should be friendly and helpful, and the gym will have plenty of social activities, including meetups and women-only nights.
Hygiene
Hygiene is essential in any public gym, so check that rental gear is clean and well-maintained, and that there are sinks for handwashing and proper disinfection procedures for the climbing walls.
