Climbing requires a lot of focus. It often takes climbers to a point where they feel like they can’t go any further, but then they find the strength to make one more move. This type of focused concentration can help promote better performance in other aspects of life.
She works full time, hosts a podcast and runs a nonprofit organization — and still finds time to scale mountains around the world.
Joshua Tree National Park
The mystical rock formations of Joshua Tree are a draw for climbers from all over the world. This is a place where a guide is highly recommended, especially for your first trip. The park’s wildly shaped rocks and boulders can be very confusing. A rock climbing guide will be able to give you beta to help you find the best routes for your skill level.
For beginner climbers, this is a perfect place to learn the basics and transition from indoor to outdoor climbing. It’s also a great location for aspirant trad leaders to practice their protection placement skills and gain experience on cracks.
The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including big horn sheep, desert tortoises, frogs and toads, and 6 different species of rattlesnake. It’s a beautiful place to hike and explore, as well as to relax and enjoy the stunning scenery. For climbers who want to stay longer, there are campgrounds and hotels in nearby Twentynine Palms and Yucca Valley.
Africa
The warm sun on your back, hard rock in front of you and nothing but thin air behind you – that’s how rock climbing is for adventurers with no fear of heights and an adrenaline addiction. Africa boasts an abundance of rugged cliffs and soaring mountains that cater to all levels of climbers.
From the famous Table Mountain in Cape Town to the legendary Waterval Boven in Mpumalanga, South African climbing is truly world class. The soaring Table Mountain is a definite must for climbers who crave the ultimate view.
Mount Kenya is another must for climbers. The iconic Lenana is accessible to hikers while the challenging peaks of Batian and Nelion are reserved for seasoned mountaineers. Mount Toubkal in Morocco is the continent’s highest peak and requires a high level of fitness to summit.
Asia
Rock climbing in Asia is a popular sport that has a variety of different destinations with limestone monoliths, tropical beaches, and jungle crags. Bukit Lawang in Malaysia is a fantastic location that offers a range of routes and the opportunity to spot orangutans in the wild.
The stunning beaches of Thailand are a draw for international climbers who flock to Ton Sai and Railay Beach. This is considered to be the mecca of sports climbing in Asia, with incredible coral cliffs lining the coast and all-inclusive hotels for climbers on a budget.
Climb in the mountains of Kyrgyzstan with an IFMGA-certified guide, and improve your skills with a week of climbing in Ala Archa National Park. This amazing mountaineering trip is a great way to experience the best of Central Asia.
USA
Climbing isn’t just an exciting pastime, it’s also a great way to build confidence and self-belief. It helps you understand the risks in your life and how to overcome them. And it teaches you resilience, which can be useful in all aspects of your life.
During a class at the indoor climbing gym Earth Treks in Timonium, Md., Jason Weesner crept up a wall using handholds and footholds. As he ascended the 28-foot edifice, he glanced down at his feet and plotted his next move.
As climbing became more popular, some feared it would lose its niche appeal by being thrust into the limelight. But for many, the excitement is tempered by the physical toll it can take on the body.
