Rock Climbing is an exciting and surprisingly safe sport if done correctly. It also will motivate you to be in top shape as body weight and endurance are important. With a few simple steps you can be breathlessly perched on the side of a cliff with a stunning bird's-eye view of the surroundings. Start with simple gym climbing, step it up to bouldering and finally hit the cliffs for the real deal.
First you should find an experienced partner. Most cities have climbing gyms, and many gyms have climbing walls. Just look for a bulletin board. There are lots of people looking for climbing partners. The gym will have a training session. Always go with a partner and follow the safety instructions religiously. You don't want to learn through your mistakes when you're 20 feet up in the air. You will learn how to belay your partner, give verbal cues to your partner when you are on the wall, and learn how to tie off your harness and rope so that you can't fall even if you faint!
After you are comfortable with the basic moves and have developed the finger strength and technique, you can move on to bouldering. This is actual rock climbing. Again check bulletin boards or ask others at the gym for a good bouldering location. Bouldering is practicing your technique on real rock but at low, safe heights. You will need a partner to "spot" you. That is someone who stands behind you to help break your fall if you should slip. Unless you are very experienced, you shouldn't be climbing higher than 8 feet or so.
After you've gotten more experience, you will be ready for exciting climbs in natural surroundings. You should have your carabiners, shoes, harness, chalk, rope and a belay device. Again, never go climbing without an experienced partner. Find a cliff or rock face that is low enough to set for "top rope" climbing. That is climbing where you don't have to clip into carabiners but are constantly belayed (supported) by your partner below. Do a climb to 40 or 50 feet. It is incredibly exhilarating and addictive.
Rock climbing is actually far safer than mountain biking or skiing if done correctly and with a partner. But it is a constant rush and is very inspiring. Just take it slow and be sure you understand each step before you take on bigger challenges. See you on the cliff face!
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