Okay, so—I’ve been wall climbing for around two months now, and I have to say… I’m obsessively hooked. Like, counting down the days until my next session, ignoring texts because I’m watching climbing videos kind of hooked.

This post is gonna be a little different from my usual put-together, professional tone. No guides, no step-by-steps—just me rambling (lovingly) about how wall climbing has unexpectedly become the highlight of my week. If you’ve ever thought about trying it, or just want to hear someone gush about a new hobby, stick around. I’ve got sore arms and a lot of chalk dust to share.

Starting Out

My brother wouldn’t stop talking about wall climbing—literally nonstop. So, I finally gave in and decided to try it out. When I first walked into the gym, I was totally overwhelmed. I’m not a big gym person to begin with (more of a home workout kinda person), but the vibe caught me off guard—in the best way. Everyone was surprisingly kind, super chill, and there was zero judgment.

Now, I do take pride in my fitness, so the first few beginner routes weren’t too bad. But as soon as I hit that third level? Total brain freeze. And honestly? I loved it. I didn’t even want to take breaks. There’s something about climbing that brings out your inner kid—it’s playful and intense. I could feel my muscles working with every move, and that feeling of getting stronger with each climb was addictive.

About half an hour in, another climber came up to me and just started chatting. I didn’t expect a climbing gym to be that social, but surprise—it totally was. He gave me some great beginner tips, like focusing more on using my legs and how important stretching is to avoid injuries.

By the end of the session, I was so happy—and completely wiped in the best way. My legs were worked, my fingers were sore (didn’t expect that!), and my body felt incredible. After a bit of stretching and some well-earned rest, I was already planning my next visit.

A Week In

One week in, and I was honestly shocked by how much I loved it. I didn’t expect to get this into wall climbing so quickly—but here I was, counting down the days to my next session like it was a concert or something. And the soreness? Weirdly satisfying. It wasn’t the “I can’t walk” kind of sore—it was the “my body actually did something cool” kind. Super rewarding.

What surprised me most was how much of a full-body workout climbing actually is. Like, it hits muscles I didn’t even know I had. And honestly? I feel like it works me out better than a typical weight-lifting gym would. It’s strength, coordination, balance, problem-solving—all rolled into one.

And on top of that, I’ve already made a little friend group. Everyone’s so welcoming, there’s no pressure to perform or “look strong.” I can just enjoy it—stress-free—with people who get the hype. It’s fun, it’s social, and I leave every session feeling stronger, both physically and mentally.

One Month In

At this point, I’m fully in. I’ve made a bunch of new friends, I’ve gotten used to the gym vibe, and I’m now one of those people who recognizes all the familiar faces every week. It’s wild how fast it went from “something new” to “my favorite thing to do.”

I even started investing in gear—got myself some climbing shoes, a hangboard (for home training, obviously), and… yeah, I bought the year pass. No hesitation. I just know I’m sticking with this for the long haul because I genuinely enjoy it that much.

I still go with my brother too—we even did splits on the hangboard like a couple of climbing nerds. 😂 He’s just as into it as I am, and now we mostly go with our little climbing crew, which makes it even more fun.

And the best part? The people you meet through climbing are such outdoorsy types. They’ll get you hyped to go on hikes, explore new spots, try bouldering outside, and—believe it or not—even go camping. It’s like joining this whole hidden world of chill, adventurous people who just get it.

What I Love About It (And Didn’t Expect To)

I knew climbing would be fun—but I didn’t expect to love this many things about it. It’s not just about getting to the top of a wall. It’s everything that happens along the way.

There’s the soreness—that super satisfying, earned kind of sore that makes you feel like you actually did something. And yeah, climbing seriously builds your upper body, but I had no idea how much it would strengthen my fingers, too. Like… my grip strength is lowkey scary now.

Then there’s the technical stuff: the complex footwork, the balance, the coordination—it all feels like a full-body chess match. Every climb is a puzzle, and figuring it out is half the fun. I didn’t expect that problem-solving aspect to be so addictive, but here we are.

And the people? Genuinely one of the best parts. The social vibe is unmatched. Everyone’s encouraging, down to earth, and just happy to be there. I’ve met so many awesome people and made real friends just by being in the space. The environment feels supportive and relaxed, not competitive or judgmental.

But maybe my favorite part is how I feel after a session. Like my body’s strong, stretched, and moving the way it’s meant to. There’s this energized calmness—like I did something good for myself. And of course, there’s that unbeatable moment when you top a climb you weren’t sure you could do. It’s this mix of accomplishment and “wow, I’m actually getting better.”

Wall climbing just makes me feel strong, grounded, and proud.

Little Wins That Feel Big

You know those moments where you surprise yourself a little? This was one of them.

I topped this climb recently , and it left me feeling so accomplished. Like, actually strong. Not just physically—but proud of how far I’ve come in just a short time. It’s these little wins that remind me I’m improving every time I show up.

Every new hold I reach, every tricky route I figure out—it all adds up. And even if it’s just one move higher than last time, it matters. That progress is what keeps me coming back, and it feels amazing to know I’m getting better every day.

If You’re Thinking of Trying It…

Do it. Seriously—just try it once. You don’t need to be super fit, flexible, or even know what you’re doing (trust me, I didn’t). Just show up, rent the shoes, and give it a shot (you’ll love the experience!).

It’s one of the few things that feels fun and makes you stronger, and you’ll probably leave thinking, “Wait… why did no one tell me it was this cool?” Plus, the community is super welcoming—no egos, no pressure, just good vibes and people cheering you on (even if you’re on the easiest wall).

You won’t regret trying it. Worst case? You get a fun workout. Best case? You find a new hobby, a new friend group, and a new version of yourself that’s a little stronger and a lot more confident.

Climb a wall! You’ve got this! 😊