It can be divided into indoor bouldering and natural rock wall bouldering. Bouldering requires selecting areas under 3 meters high where protection is easy to set up (no rope protection needed).
A bouldering mat (crash pad) is usually placed under the bouldering wall, and partners must closely watch the climber’s movements, ready to protect them in case of a fall.
Rock climbing is mainly divided into speed climbing, difficulty climbing, and bouldering. Speed climbing involves the same route, with the winner being the fastest. Difficulty climbing has routes set by judges, and the winner is determined by the height climbed. Bouldering involves completing as many of several pre-set routes as possible, with the climber who finishes the most routes winning; the difficulty of the routes is set by the route-setter.
As a form of rock climbing, bouldering greatly hones a person's determination to press forward and refined climbing techniques, making the sport highly thrilling. Especially during intense competitions, athletes must not only exert all their strength but also combine endurance, flexibility, and balance, using the difficult-to-grip holds on the wall to climb upwards and complete maneuvers such as mantels, dynos, and pull-ups, providing the audience with an aesthetically thrilling performance.
The difference between bouldering and rock climbing is:
1. No need to set up ropes, harnesses, quickdraws, or other protective gear; just lay a 30–50 cm thick foam mat under the climbing wall to prevent falls.
2. It is easily accepted by rock climbing enthusiasts. A pair of climbing shoes and a chalk bag are all that’s needed.
3. Bouldering is suitable for a wide range of people; healthy individuals aged 5 and above can participate.
Due to the currently very comprehensive safety measures, bouldering is quite safe. In European and American countries, rock climbing is basically as common as going to the gym, making it a trendy, popular, and healthy sport.