Bouldering terms.

Bouldering terms Feb 16, 2022 · Trad Climbing. 15c (currently the hardest confirmed free climb in the world). As a beginner stepping into one of these gyms for the first time, you'll likely hear climbers tossing around terms that sound like a foreign language if you've Oct 5, 2023 · 7. Glossary of Climbing Terms. This article is designed to guide you through the different holds categories that cover the walls of indoor climbing gyms, shedding light on the terms used and offering a few useful tips. Approach: The approach is the hike to the boulders, often more challenging than expected. When I began climbing, understanding terms like “beta” and “crux” not only improved my communication with fellow climbers but also enhanced my overall climbing experience. Climbing Gym: An indoor facility equipped with artificial rock walls designed for climbing. Accessory cord —Nylon, Kevlar® or Spectra® cord sold in a range of diameters, typically smaller than those of climbing ropes. Flashing a route? Sounds inappropriate. From essential safety words like “belayer” (the person controlling the safety rope) to movement-based terms such as “crux” (the hardest part of a climb), these phrases form the basic language of climbing. It does get on my nerves when I see gumby rock climbing but the one thing we must all remember: we were once them. While bouldering can be done without any equipment, most climbers use climbing shoes to help secure footholds, chalk to keep their hands dry and to provide a firmer grip, and bouldering mats to prevent injuries from falls. k. SEND Climbing term for climbing a route without falling or resting on gear. Aid Climbing – Ascending a wall by pulling on fixed or temporary pieces of gear rather than climbing under your own In analogy to bouldering this term describes climbing on buildings. Rock climbing has a specialized vocabulary that can be confusing and overwhelming. Example: “I like that boulder. I can just picture Jack carefully placing his beta tape of Kansas City into his betamax recorder and subsequently showing the footage to Freeman on a 4:3 television set. Bouldering is a form of rock climbing that is performed on small rock formations or artificial rock walls without the use of ropes or harnesses. A-D. Oct 8, 2024 · But the vocabulary is part of what makes the climbing culture so great! They use strange verbiage, enjoy wrestling funky-colored walls, and are covered in chalk 90% of the time. Aug 6, 2019 · Spanish-Language Rock Climbing Key Terms a. Photo by Loreah Winlow. If you’re new to climbing or hang around people who enjoy the sport, you’ve probably heard some words that make you scratch your head in confusion. Below is an introduction to some of the basic terms used to describe the different styles and techniques of rock climbing. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, understanding the terminology associated with climbing is essential. Feb 16, 2024 · For newcomers and intermediate boulderers alike, deciphering the lexicon of holds can sometimes seem as dizzying as the walls themselves. Mar 18, 2025 · Get clear definitions of essential bouldering terms, climbing gear, and grading systems – vital for measuring your progress and skill level. Aid Climbing: Ascending the rock by pulling directly on gear for progress. Though not in the modern-day sense, Hassler Whitney (1907-1989) is considered one of the very early American boulderers and spent much of his life putting up routes without a Speaking about rock climbing grades, there are not only the systems listed above but also other difficulty rating systems. Technical rock climbing begins with routes reaching the Class 5 level. 5. Instead of feeling lost in translation when you hear terms like “gaston the side-pull,” get ready to dive into the exciting world of rock climbing lingo. Jun 7, 2024 · Bouldering is hard enough as it is, but understanding bouldering terms and lingo is a challenge in itself! When I first started climbing, I remember getting confused between the names of different holds and body movements that I couldn’t follow along in every conversation. Second: the person following the lead up. Other types of rock climbing terms that boulderers use are in relation to movements, or types of moves they should be engaging in. Bouldering, like rock climbing, has its own terminology. Jun 24, 2024 · “Whipper,” “Dyno,” and “Chicken Wing” are some funny Rock Climbing terms that add a touch of humor to the sport, describing dramatic falls, dynamic moves, and awkward jamming techniques, respectively. Climbing Wall: An artificially constructed wall with grips for hands and feet, used for climbing. There is very little to no information that can be found about when the term ‘sandbag’ or ‘sandbagging’ was first adopted in climbing. The minor distinctions climbers make between different ways of getting to the top of a cliff can seem unnecessarily arcane. What is the term for a rock climbing technique that involves using the feet to transfer weight and maintain balance? 9. The hike to a climbing area, or to the base of a specific route, is the approach. Beta. They have a close fit and a smooth, sticky rubber sole to maximize grip on the rock. For instance, in off-width climbing, a type of crack climbing where the fissure is too wide for a hand jam but too narrow for a full body wedge, gastons can be crucial. Feb 23, 2020 · The term “bouldering” first appeared in British climbing literature — with Oscar Eckstein serving as one of the sport’s earliest advocates in the British Isles. General Terms in Bouldering. Rock climbing grades, bear in mind that: The English term "redpoint" is a loan translation of the German Rotpunkt that was coined by Kurt Albert in the mid-1970s at Frankenjura. Un Poco de Vocabulario de Escalada para Los Gringos. Beginner to intermediate rock climbing skills required. Mar 8, 2025 · Climbing language promotes safety and communication among climbers. For example: South Africa, Brazil, Finnish, Swedish. What does Send mean in climbing? Let’s take a look… What does ‘send’ mean in climbing? Send is a climbing term used to describe a successful ascent of a route or boulder. Knowing the jargon helps you communicate better with other climbers. These gyms create perfect spaces for beginners to pick up terminology from more experienced climbers in a supportive environment. Bouldering Glossary: A whole new language. Climbing a route first try definitely takes more than a repeat attempt and you should be proud. Bouldering Pad. Here’s an explanation of some of the terms you might hear climbers throwing around the centre Problem: A climb. 1. It can also be used as a term of encouragement “send it!” Dec 13, 2022 · When you are hanging around other climbers and working on similar bouldering problems, you are likely to strike up a conversation that includes some odd rock climbing terms. A knot also known as lineman's loop, butterfly loop, alpine butterfly knot and lineman's rider, is a knot used to form a fixed loop in the middle of a rope. Albert would paint a red "X" on any fixed metal pitons on a rock climbing route so that he could avoid using them while climbing, thus not using any artificial aid. SHOCK LOAD A force exerted on an anchor when weight is suddenly dropped onto it. Key terms like “jug” and “crux” are essential for understanding climbing techniques. Nov 8, 2023 · Here is our rock climbing slang dictionary, complete with different types of climbing, types of holds, safety terms, gym terms, and so much more! Types of Climbing. And it is also why my name is called the amateur climber as well. Refugio Frey near Bariloche, Argentina. Mar 16, 2020 · Other Rock Climbing Terms – Types of Moves. Free soloing is an extremely high-risk and advanced form of rock climbing where the climber ascends a route without any form of protection or safety equipment. Be aware that several terms can be used as both verbs and nouns. On paper, rock climbing sounds quite simple – climb up a rock face either with or without ropes and safety gear. Found Mar 6, 2025 · In mastering rock climbing terms, you’ve unlocked the gateway to adventure, from understanding gear to executing advanced techniques. That is a nice boulder. . What does the acronym “UIAA” stand for? 10. Brush / Brushing. A term commonly used in Europe and Australia. Gaston. Our informal dictionary of climbing terms. And many terms mean different things, depending on the context. It must be noted, this is an open-ended scale, so there could be harder grades in the future! Are bouldering grades harder than sport climbing grades? It is hard to compare! Beta is a climbing term that designates information about how to ascend a climbing route, and the specific climbing techniques required—and how to apply them—to overcome the key challenges encountered. Click on this link to see other systems for measuring difficulties in climbing. Note, dyno could be added here, as well as some other terms higher up. A double figure of eight loop often used to clip into anchors with 2 carabiners. 10. Hold: Thing you grab or stand on. … Mar 23, 2018 · Boulder: Climbing on boulders, often “shorter” or less tall climbs. Climbing Gear. As you continue your Rock Climbing Moves . May 3, 2022 · Rock Climbing Terrain Terms Approach. a. May 21, 2019 · As a final quick review: on-sighting a route occurs when you lead climb a route without any previous practice or information regarding the climb, flashing occurs when you have some information but still climb to the top of a route on your first attempt, and redpointing a route refers to successfully climbing a route that you’ve had practice on before – usually this is referring to a route Jan 28, 2022 · As climbing difficulty progresses into Class 4, most people use ropes and protection due to steepness and exposure. Approaches can be anything from a paved 5-minute walk from the parking lot to the crag, to a 20-minute hike on a maintained trail, to a full-day, off-trail scramble across forest and talus. Antonym of “free climbing,” which means using only one’s hands, feet, and the rock for May 4, 2022 · RUNOUT The climbing term for being far above your last piece of protection. The YDS only applies to rock climbing routes, not ice or mixed rock/ice climbing routes. Abseil —(pronounced AB-sail) To make a controlled descent on a fixed rope. In certain parts of Asia, we often refer to gumbies climbing as newbie or noob climbers. 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. Here are a few bouldering terms you should know before hitting your local crag or bouldering gym: Apr 26, 2019 · Climbing Terms: 攀岩 术语 (pānyán shùyǔ) English Chinese 中文 (pīnyīn) Rock Climbing 攀岩 (pānyán) Sport Climbing 运动攀 (yùndòng pān) Traditional Climbing 传统攀 (chuántǒng pān) Lead 先锋 (xiānfēng) Toprope : 顶绳 (dǐngshéng) Redpoint 红点 (hóngdiǎn) Bouldering Jul 11, 2023 · Bouldering. Lead: the person leading the climb. Climbing Terms You Need to Know Jun 21, 2022 · And that is how the climbing term originated. Here is a dictionary of climbing terms for various types of climbing (Bouldering, Top Rope, and Sports Climbing) so you know what other climbers are saying and how to join in on the conversation. Keep in mind that multiple terms can often be used to describe one route. Bouldering is the most simple, most accessible, and thus most popluar form of climbing. Invented, as the name suggests, to grade routes in the Yosemite Valley, CA. [1] [2] [3] The terms used can vary between different English-speaking countries; many of the phrases described here are particular to the United States and the United Kingdom. Here’s an example: What is the hardest bouldering grade? The hardest grade currently is the V17 (9a), this is the top end of the sport and it is very rarely achieved. Unroped climbers risk severe injury or fatality in the event of a fall. Undercling refers to any hold used by turning your palm upside-down, as if receiving alms, and walking the feet up. Aug 2, 2024 · Crag: a cliff or rock feature. Jun 16, 2022 · The most common term used in climbing is ‘send’. The term is typically used in Europe and Australia. Mar 13, 2023 · Climbing is an exciting and challenging sport that requires skill, strength, and endurance. There are certainly some less common words that haven’t made it onto this list, but you’ll find everything you really need to know to scrub up and learn the lingo and the most common rock climbing terms. The term send is derived from the word ‘ascent’ which means to reach the top of a mountain. 9-5. ” “Paroi” translates to “wall,” emphasizing the distinctive style of climbing in this region, which often involves bouldering on rock faces rather than traditional rope climbing. Back in the 80s when Betamax cassettes were used to record rock climbing. See rappel. Bouldering Essentials is packed with clear, practical advice for everyone interested in bouldering whether a complete beginner looking to learn the basics, an indoor climber keen to start bouldering outdoors or an experienced boulderer who wants to explore advanced topics such as dynamics, strategy, tactics, training and highballing. Feb 9, 2020 · Not every term is exclusive to climbing, but all are used by climbers. I felt like I was listening to a different language! Feb 13, 2025 · Rock climbing and bouldering come with specific terms that climbers need to know. Getting beta on a climb means receiving advice. Lead Climbing Mar 22, 2021 · Most climbers would say that the terms flash, onsight, and redpoint are specifically for lead climbing. Feb 25, 2025 · Basic climbing words serve as the foundation for anyone starting their vertical adventures. Aug 25, 2022 · Yosemite Decimal System– The standard grading scale in the US for free climbing routes. Sending a project? Probably something better left for your day job. Climbing Shoes: Specialized footwear designed for rock climbing. No ropes, only shoes and chalk (and hopefully some ground pads). Common bouldering terms Boulder problem: A specific sequence of moves on a boulder or climbing wall, often called a “problem” in the climbing world. The words used by climbers Jan 4, 2024 · Photo by Vincenzo Di Giorgi on Unsplash Free soloing. Other terms for this include bouldering mat, crash pad or crash mat. So tie in, chalk up, and let the vertical world become the Jan 27, 2022 · Climbing Terms Explained A. Don't worry about the distinction between the terms unless you're considering a long, multipitch This term is more popular in America due to its origins. ROCK CLIMBING TERMS. Or still are. From basic terms like “crimps” (small finger holds) to advanced beta calls such as “gaston” (an outward-facing grip position), these words form the essential language of climbing. Don’t let this get you down though. Send: This is another term for completing a climb. 0 (the easiest climbing, sometimes referred to as “a ladder”) and 5. Abseil – See Rappel. Feb 18, 2025 · What are some common climbing slang terms? Some common climbing slang terms include “beta,” which refers to advice or information about a climb, and “crux,” the hardest part of a route. Jul 13, 2022 · The term ‘sandbag’ in climbing was popularized by climbers who would imagine climbing a route with a sandbag attached to their harness. This is the action of cleaning holds on a route. Nov 2, 2023 · Outdoor climbing presents its own set of challenges and opportunities for gastons. Familiarizing yourself with climbing jargon can enhance your climbing experience. Undercling. Jan 5, 2020 · https://rarepleco. Feb 10, 2024 · Rock Climbing Terms You'll Hear In A Climbing Gym Indoor rock climbing has exploded in popularity over the past decade, with modern climbing gyms popping up in cities across the country. These are only some of the terms you’ll use in the rock climbing community. There is an inordinate amount of terms related to climbing. Arête – An outside corner. Which of these indoor climbing wall types is used for practicing and refining climbing techniques? 8. Mar 11, 2025 · With the explosive growth of bouldering – 64% of new climbing gyms in 2021 were exclusively bouldering facilities – more and more people are learning this special language. Feb 11, 2025 · Bouldering vocabulary opens up a world of precise movement descriptions and safety communication at the climbing gym. We’ll go over some of the most popular lingo so you can fit right in as you start your climbing journey. Feb 15, 2025 · Bouldering has specific terms for techniques, holds, and grading systems. Trad climbing is another name for traditional climbing (see Traditional Climbing). bunny ears. Other terms include “send,” meaning to complete a climb successfully, and “screamer,” which describes a fall that involves a lot of slack in the . From essential gear terms like carabiners (metal loops that connect ropes) and belay devices (tools for controlling rope), to movement techniques such as crimping and flagging, these terms create a shared language among climbers. This is a piece of equipment used when climbing outdoors and placed under the climb in the fall zone to offer a bit more protection should you fall off. It’s not unusual for beginner boulderers to be completely lost in a conversation with other boulderers. And yet, there are so many different terms used in the climbing community to describe all sorts of different features to rock climbing. New to the world of climbing? No problem. com/2019/12/23/rock-climbing-terms-in-chinese/ The differences in usage between Taiwan and China for certain words is interesting to note. To help you understand what the heck people are talking about when they say, "I was super pumped at the crux of that chaucy splitter, and when I took a whipper I almost cratered!", we provide the following list of words. Crimp – A thin climbing hand hold that requires one to “crimp”; also known as crimper Bouldering Essentials is packed with clear, practical advice for everyone interested in bouldering whether a complete beginner looking to learn the basics, an indoor climber keen to start bouldering outdoors or an experienced boulderer who wants to explore advanced topics such as dynamics, strategy, tactics, training and highballing. butterfly knot. SIDEPULL Method for gripping a vertical edge that entails pulling with the hand and pushing with the feet. And believe it or not, most of them are actually used pretty often. I know what you are thinking, it’s not that character from the Beauty and The Beast classic. Gym: indoor climbing wall. Variant: Undercut. Glossary of climbing terms relates to rock climbing (including aid climbing, lead climbing, bouldering, and competition climbing), mountaineering, and to ice climbing. A. Jan 10, 2021 · Home - Climb - A Guide to Rock Climbing Terms and Jargon. Sep 27, 2023 · Escalade de Paroi: In the climbing haven of Fontainebleau, France, renowned for its boulder-strewn forests, climbers may use the term “escalade de paroi. Today, we wanted to walk you through all of the different bouldering terminology specifically for new climbers! For those that do not want to watch the video above, we have prepared a written write-up just for you. Even though they sound similar, free climbing and free soloing are two very different things. ” Familiarity with climbing terms and slang is more than just learning a new vocabulary; it’s about becoming an integrated member of the climbing community. Usually, these terms will be used when you are asking how to complete a problem. Protection usually is the floor or a mat. Here is a basic rundown of the different types of climbing. Learning these terms can make your bouldering experience more enjoyable. The system follows a scale that begins at 5. Boulder – Unroped climbing not far from the ground (12 feet or less) with an emphasis on movement and strength. Top Rope Climbing vs. It’s all about technical, difficult moves on short routes—generally no higher than about 15 feet from the ground. They allow climbers to reposition themselves or gain leverage in these tricky terrains. Most of these climbing terms are indoor bouldering terminology used to describe each movement on a problem. In this video, we delve into the world of bouldering terminology and bust some common terms in a handy 'climbing terms explained'. Belayer: the person that manages the rope, protecting the climber against a fall. czup swds aypza yng hdqc skfga fgkezn sarp ygkza blwc xboz tgxoeo wubqmfz lxfub wtbzt