Basic Rock Climbing Terminology

If you get the climbing bug, you are entering a unique niche of people. Much like visiting another country, you need to get down some of the lingo being used.

Much like any sport, climbing has its own terminology. Unlike most other sports, the terminology often does not have an obvious meaning. Here are a few terms you should know.

Anchor - Not the kind you find on a boat. In climbing, the anchor is usually two pieces that support the belay when climbing. What is a belay? Read on.

Belay - The belay is rope anchor system used to provide support for a climber. The belay is often another person who feeds out rope to the climber as he or she makes progress up the climb. The belay is run through a friction system, often a mechanical brake. If the climber falls, the belay system is used to keep them from plunging to the ground.

Bouldering - Pretty much what it sounds like. To practice technique and have a bit of fun, you find large boulders and climb them. The relatively minimal height makes falling less of an issue, but you probably want to throw down some pads to cushion any falls. An excellent way to build up strength in muscles needed for more advanced climbs.

Crimp - Essentially the art of finding a finger hold where there doesn't appear to be one.

Elvis - Also known as the sewing machine. When a climbers leg starts to vibrate up and down. Causes include being tired, being scared out of your wits and good music.

Face Climbing - Pretty much what you think. The art of climbing a vertical face using primarily finger holds and edges to work your way up.

Harness - A nylon device worn around the waist and legs and tied off to supporting ropes. The harness is a safety feature everyone should wear.

Indoor Climbing - Also known as gym climbing. Most cities have climbing gyms where you can practice on walls inside. Alternatively, you can empty out your basement or garage and build your own. Great way to practice and build up strength.

Leading - The first person up on the climb. Responsible for determining the route, solving problems, placing anchors and so on. Not for beginners.

Pitch - Another term that means something other than what it sounds like. A pitch has nothing to do with the vertical angle of the rock. It is the distance between two belay points.

As with any new sport, you are going to run into far more terms than just these. If you don't know what something means, just ask. Rock climbing is one of those sports were beginners are universally welcomed and old pros tend to be very friendly.