Climbing Wall
Located inside the Rec, the climbing wall features:
- Bouldering space for all skill levels
- Free climbing shoes for those without gear
New to climbing? No problem! Here are some tips:
- Warm Up Properly
Begin with light cardio, followed by gentle stretching (especially shoulders, wrists, hips). Progress by climbing easy routes to get loose and ready. - Think Before You Move
Plan your sequence before climbing. After each attempt, reflect: What worked? Any adjustments? This loop of plan–climb–review builds strong technique. - Watch Other Climbers
Observe others—but don’t just copy. Adapt what works to your body and style; bouldering is about problem-solving your own way. - Focus on Balance
Controlled, deliberate movements and stable body positioning are key. Avoid swinging—good balance lets you save energy and climb more efficiently. - Work on Weaknesses
Identify and train your weak spots, like footwork or core strength. Improving these gives more benefit than honing areas you’re already strong in. - Prioritize Safety
Warm up well, stay clear of landing zones, be aware of mat gaps, learn how to fall safely, and don’t rely solely on mats for protection. - Land Safely
Whenever possible, down-climb instead of jumping. If you do jump:- Keep it controlled.
- Bend your knees to absorb impact.
- Land on both feet, not one.
- Roll slightly or let your body follow through to spread out the force.
- Always check that the landing zone is clear of people and gear before dropping.
- Stay Relaxed & Patient
Avoid stress and frustration. Bouldering is about solving puzzles—stay calm, breathe, and appreciate the process, including failures. - Ignore Grades
Climb what challenges you, not what’s assigned a number. Grades are relative and shouldn’t define your progress or worth. - Climb Circuits
Tackle a linked sequence of problems of similar difficulty. Circuits are great for endurance, improving technique, and highlighting weaknesses.
References
- Three Rock Books. (n.d.). Ten tips for bouldering indoors. Retrieved from https://threerockbooks.com/ten-tips-for-bouldering-indoors/
- Bouldering Boss. (n.d.). How does one jump down safely from a bouldering wall? Retrieved from https://boulderingboss.com/how-does-one-jump-down-safely-from-a-bouldering-wall/
Climbing Wall Hours
Monday – Friday: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Wall Closures:
Policies & Procedures
- Climbing shoes are required while climbing and must be removed when leaving the area.
- No climbing above the yellow safety line in the bouldering area.
- Food and drink are permitted only on the stairs (not mats).
- Limit: 6 climbers + 6 spotters on mats at one time.
- Jewelry should be removed; long hair tied back.
- Report all injuries or equipment damage immediately to staff located at the Welcome Desk.
- Only Rec staff/approved designees may adjust hand holds.
- Rec staff may suspend participants for unsafe or inappropriate conduct.
Contact
- Climbing Wall / General OA Questions: recdirector@vanderbilt.edu
- Equipment Rentals: lynn.a.smith@vanderbilt.edu