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Bouldering is in, and it’s different from rock climbing — here’s how

Bouldering or rock climbing? What's the difference?

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Rock climber with helmet
Lucas Davies / Unsplash

Activities like rock climbing can bring out our inner child and our primal side for those who are up for the challenge. Climbers are exploring some of the most captivating places on Earth, from the picturesque beauty of the Red River Gorge canyon in Kentucky and Yosemite National Park here in the U.S. to the stunning scenery of the Rocklands in South Africa.

Rock climbing remains a popular activity, but recently, more and more people are bouldering. So, what’s the difference? What are the benefits of bouldering? Let’s explore.

What is bouldering?

Man bouldering at a gym
Tofan Teodor / Unsplash

Bouldering is a type of rock climbing involving shorter walls that are usually 12 feet (or 4.5m) or less without using safety harnesses or ropes. When bouldering, people typically just place a thick, padded mat or crash pad below. You can go bouldering on artificial climbing walls in gyms, which is more common, or you can head to the great outdoors for suitable natural rock formations.

What’s the difference between bouldering and rock climbing?

man rock climbing sunset
Ahha Pboba / Pexels

Here are the main differences between bouldering and rock climbing:

  • With rock climbing, a belayer controls the rope and feeds the climber’s rope as they advance upward. Belayers use a special device that creates friction on the rope so they can catch the climber if needed and provide tension to help lower the climber to the ground. Bouldering doesn’t involve harnesses or ropes; instead, the climbers rely on their own technique and strength, placing a crash pad below.
  • Bouldering only involves shorter walls and rock formations, typically 12 feet or less. 

What are the benefits of bouldering?

An athletic man climbing on an artificial rock wall.
Cavan Images / Alamy

Here are some of the many benefits of bouldering:

  • Work on your climbing skills without committing to higher, longer climbs.
  • Work out numerous muscle groups in your body and fine-tune your strength and endurance. 
  • Enjoy a fun social activity with your friends and family.
  • Bouldering is more accessible for many people because it requires minimal equipment. Don’t forget your climbing shoes! Go for rubber-soled shoes designed for friction.
  • Short, intense climbs are rewarding and easier to fit into your busy schedule.
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Most people just bring chalk, climbing shoes, and a padded mat to go bouldering. The chalk helps keep your hands dry and improves your grip.

Steph Green
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