Outdoor Climbing
What is it?
What to do Next?
Activity Types
Just like we are all different, so are the opportunities available to us as unique individuals. Deciding what you prefer based on your skills and preferences is an exciting journey.
Keep searching below to find out more.
Simply Snapfacts
Why is lead climbing considered mentally demanding?
Climbers clip the rope in as they ascend, meaning falls can become much longer higher up the wall.
Lead Climbing
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Why are para climbing competitions split into classifications?
Athletes compete in categories based on different physical impairments to create fair competition.
Para Climbing
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Why do ice climbers listen carefully while climbing frozen waterfalls?
Cracking sounds can reveal weak or unstable ice before it breaks.
Ice Climbing
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Why are quickdraws clipped onto climbing walls?
Quickdraws connect the rope to anchor points and protect climbers from long falls.
Sport Climbing
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Why do outdoor climbers carry chalk bags?
Chalk helps keep hands dry and improves grip on rock surfaces.
Outdoor Climbing
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SIMPLY FACTS
Simply History
Sport climbing, including bouldering as part of the combined format, made its Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020.
The UIAA, the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation, helped develop organised international ice climbing competitions in the late 20th century.
Sport Climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, combining speed, bouldering and lead climbing.
Sport Climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, combining speed, bouldering and lead climbing.
Sport Climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, combining speed, bouldering and lead climbing.
Paraclimbing developed through IFSC international competitions, with world championship events becoming established in the 2010s.
Sport Climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, combining speed, bouldering and lead climbing.
Speed Climbing appeared as part of Sport Climbing's Olympic debut at Tokyo 2020.
Sport Climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, using a combined format of speed, bouldering and lead.
Sport Climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, combining speed, bouldering and lead climbing.
Simply Comparisons
What is it all about?
Rock Climbing
Rock Climbing is a form of climbing that helps people practise the key skills of the activity in a fun, focused and active way.
Speed Climbing
Two climbers race up identical walls, focusing on explosive movement and fast reactions.
Sport Climbing
Climbers use ropes and fixed anchors to climb routes safely, testing strength and technique.
Top Rope Climbing
A rope from above supports climbers, making it a good way to learn safely.
Bouldering
Climbers tackle short routes without ropes, using mats, problem-solving and powerful movement.
Ice Climbing
Ice Climbing is a form of climbing that helps people practise the key skills of the activity in a fun, focused and active way.
Indoor Climbing
Climbers use artificial walls with coloured holds, making climbing accessible in any weather.
Lead Climbing
Climbers clip the rope as they climb, requiring confidence, planning and strong technique.
Outdoor Climbing
Climbers use real rock routes, learning respect for nature, safety and careful movement.
Para Climbing
Adapted climbing where disabled athletes use skill, strength and problem-solving on climbing routes.
Olympic Status
Rock Climbing
Non-Olympic
Speed Climbing
Summer Olympics, 2020
Sport Climbing
Summer Olympics, 2020
Top Rope Climbing
Non-Olympic
Bouldering
Summer Olympics, 2020
Ice Climbing
Non-Olympic
Indoor Climbing
Non-Olympic
Lead Climbing
Summer Olympics, 2020
Outdoor Climbing
Non-Olympic
Para Climbing
Paralympics, 2028
Starting Age
Rock Climbing
6+ Years
Speed Climbing
6+ Years
Sport Climbing
6+ Years
Top Rope Climbing
6+ Years
Bouldering
6+ Years
Ice Climbing
6+ Years
Indoor Climbing
6+ Years
Lead Climbing
6+ Years
Outdoor Climbing
6+ Years
Para Climbing
6+ Years
Players
Rock Climbing
1 or more
Speed Climbing
1 or more
Sport Climbing
1 or more
Top Rope Climbing
Climber and belayer
Bouldering
1 or more
Ice Climbing
1 or more
Indoor Climbing
1 or more
Length of Play
Rock Climbing
30 minutes to 3 hours
Speed Climbing
Seconds per climb
Sport Climbing
30 minutes to 3 hours
Top Rope Climbing
30 minutes to 3 hours
Bouldering
30 minutes to 3 hours
Ice Climbing
30 minutes to 3 hours
Indoor Climbing
30 minutes to 3 hours
Simply Try
Let the Journey Begin
The Discovery Missions are designed to introduce the sport, in a fun and inclusive way.
- Read the Discovery Mission and learn what you’ll be doing.
- Complete the Mission friend, family member, trusted adult or just you,and have fun!
- If you wish to, Record and reflect on your experience by writing in your Personal Journal.
- Earn an Adventurer Badge for each completed Discovery Mission.
- Unlock your Adventurer Certificate when you have completed 4 of your chosen Discovery Missions.
Search for a Local Club
Explore Activity Types
After exploring this page below, and discovering all about the activity, and deciding that you wish to learn more, progress as a Trailblazor by exploring the Activity types to decide which one interests you.
On Activity Type Pages, you will have the opportunity to attempt Simply Grow Missions to develop your skills, and decide if you wish to challenge yourself with Simply Inspire Missions to progress as an Activity Ambassador.
Browse Equipment
Browse Pre-Loved
Pre-loved shopping is a smart and sustainable way to find quality items at great value. From sports equipment and books to games, hobbies and everyday essentials, many pre-loved items have been carefully looked after and are ready for their next adventure. Browse trusted brands, discover hidden gems and find products that have already stood the test of time.
Browse New
Spending money is an important decision, so it’s worth exploring your options before you buy. Browse a variety of stores to compare products, prices and services, helping you find the right item at the right value. Whether you’re looking for sports equipment, books, games or hobby supplies, take the time to shop around and make an informed choice.
Simply Tip: Create a wishlist for birthdays, save or earn pocket money by doing chores.
Test your friends & family's knowledge by flipping Simply Snapfacts
Inspire-Me Galleries
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Who created Aikido?
Aikido was created in Japan by Morihei Ueshiba in the early 20th century as a martial art focused on harmony and control.
Aikido
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When did Paraclimbing world competitions begin?
Paraclimbing developed through IFSC international competitions, with world championship events becoming established in the 2010s.
Para Climbing
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