So, you’re ready to climb like a pro – or at least make it to the top without an unexpected meeting with the crash mat. Indoor climbing (whether bouldering or rope climbing) is an exciting, challenging, and ridiculously fun sport, but let’s be real – it’s also a sport where safety matters. No one wants to spend their climbing session perfecting the art of the awkward fall.

To help you stay injury-free and confidently crushing your climbs, here are some of the most common indoor climbing mistakes and how to avoid them!

1. Skipping the Warm-Up (and Looking Like a Robot on the Wall)

We get it – warming up doesn’t sound nearly as fun as solving a new problem. But jumping straight onto the wall with cold muscles is a recipe for stiff moves, sore fingers, and unnecessary strain.

Avoid it:

  • Spend 5-10 minutes stretching your arms, shoulders, and legs.
  • Do some easy bouldering problems to activate climbing muscles before tackling harder routes.
  • Shake out your hands and wrists between climbs to keep everything loose.

If it’s Redpoint Bristol you’re looking at, experienced climbers always warm up with simple climbs before going big! Follow their lead.

2. Poor Footwork (a.k.a. The Slippery Spiderman Syndrome)

You might think climbing is all about upper body strength, but seasoned climbers know the real secret – it’s all in the feet! Relying too much on your arms will have you gassed out quicker than you can say “just one more attempt.”

Avoid it:

✔️ Place your feet carefully – don’t just slap them onto holds and hope for the best. ✔️ Keep your heels down and weight on your toes for better control. ✔️ Watch how more experienced climbers use their legs to push, instead of trying to haul themselves up with their arms.

Good footwork separates beginners from experienced climbers – spend time practising it, and you’ll see huge improvements.

3. The Over-Gripping Problem (a.k.a. The Climber’s Claw)

Ever seen a climber gripping so hard their fingers look like a T-Rex trying to type? That’s over-gripping, and it’s a one-way ticket to early exhaustion.

Avoid it:

Hold just enough to stay on the wall – your grip should be firm but relaxed. Shake out your hands regularly to avoid muscle fatigue. Use chalk properly – not too much, not too little – just enough to keep your hands dry and comfortable.

At most climbing gyms, you’ll see experienced climbers resting mid-route and shaking out their hands. Learn from them!

4. Forgetting to Check Your Landing Zone (For Bouldering Climbers!)

In bouldering, falls are part of the game – but where you land is just as important as how you climb.

Avoid it:

Check the landing zone before starting – make sure there are no stray water bottles, chalk bags, or people standing in your drop zone. And if you fall, try to land on your feet and roll onto your back to distribute impact safely. Oh yeah, don’t climb underneath someone else – give people space!

At top climbing gyms (like Redpoint Bristol), we have clear bouldering etiquette – follow it to stay safe!

5. Rushing the Descent (Because Gravity Works Fast)

Climbing up is fun, but coming down? That’s where things can go wrong if you’re not paying attention.

Avoid it:

  • For rope climbers: Don’t let go until you’re sure your belayer is ready to lower you.
  • For bouldering: Instead of jumping, try downclimbing using the holds – your knees will thank you later.

Smart climbers climb down as carefully as they climb up – be one of them! Aim to always check your surroundings before coming down to avoid landing on someone.

6. Ignoring the Climbing Gym Rules (a.k.a. Being That Climber)

Every climbing gym has rules – they exist for a reason! Whether it’s bouldering etiquette, belay checks, or chalk policies, ignoring them can put you and others at risk.

Avoid it:

Read the gym’s safety guidelines before you start climbing. You can also communicate with other climbers – if you’re not sure about something, ask! Climbers are friendly folk. Respect personal space – don’t hover too close while someone else is climbing.

Redpoint Bristol, like most indoor climbing centres, has clear safety guidelines. Read them. Follow them. Enjoy your session!

7. Wearing the Wrong Gear (Yes, This Matters!)

Climbing in trainers? Baggy jeans? Slippery socks? No, no, and absolutely no! The right gear makes all the difference.

Avoid it:

Climbing shoes are important – don’t attempt bouldering in trainers. You’ll feel more comfortable if you wear flexible, moisture-wicking clothes that allow free movement. You’re not on a date, so leave the jewellery at home – rings and necklaces can get caught while climbing.

Climb Smart, Climb Safe, Climb On!

Indoor climbing is all about fun, challenge, and progression – but safety always comes first! And if you avoid these common mistakes, you’ll climb more efficiently, reduce the risk of injury, and keep enjoying this awesome sport.

Pro tips: warm up properly, use good footwork, relax your grip, check your landing zone, descend carefully, follow gym rules, and wear the right gear.

So you now know what to do and what not to do, grab your climbing shoes, hit the wall, and have an epic (and safe) session!

And if you’re looking for a climbing gym that values safety and progression? Check out places like Redpoint Bristol, where expert climbers and beginners climb together in a friendly, well-maintained environment!