Rock climbing becomes a new fitness trend during Spring Festival, with high enthusiasm but limited venues

       Is the cold weather a hassle for those who love sports and challenges? If you’re not in the mood for ball games or have grown tired of the gym, what other way can you both exercise and enjoy the thrill? Why not try rock climbing? Though it may seem challenging at first, as long as you’re in good health—even as a beginner—you can gain a sense of accomplishment during the climb and even build a well-toned, athletic physique.
　　High enthusiasm among climbers, but unfortunately few venues

　　Earlier this month, the “4th Guangdong Provincial Rock Climbing Championship,” hosted by the Guangdong Provincial Social Sports Center, concluded successfully at the climbing venue of the Guangdong Olympic Sports Center. The competition coincided with the coldest weather Guangzhou had seen since winter began, but this did not dampen the enthusiasm of numerous rock climbing enthusiasts eager to participate. Nearly 200 enthusiasts from across the province and the Hong Kong and Macao regions actively joined, with the number of participants even surpassing that of the national championship. Adding to the lively atmosphere were over a thousand team leaders, coaches, parents, and other spectators who came to cheer them on. For a sport not yet widely known to the public, Guangdong actually has a broad base of participants. As such, Guangdong can be considered the leading province in mountaineering and outdoor sports (including rock climbing).

　　However, reporters learned during interviews that the current level of mountaineering and rock climbing in Guangdong has shown a clear downward trend—not only has it lost the opportunity to win the speed climbing gold medal for three consecutive National Games, but it hasn’t even made it into the top three. So what’s behind this decline? Further investigation revealed that due to tight training budgets, Guangdong sometimes struggles to even hold one competition per year, causing its advantage in speed climbing to gradually fade in recent years. Aside from funding shortages, the public’s lack of understanding about rock climbing—often perceived as a high-risk activity—leads many to forgo participation out of fear. In reality, rock climbing is distinctly different from alpine expeditions; rope-protected climbing is very safe, with injury rates far lower than many contact sports. Additionally, the lack of training venues has caused some promising enthusiasts to drop out. Reporters also learned that the climbing venue at the Provincial Stadium in Guangzhou was once an ideal training spot in the city center, but it was temporarily demolished for reasons unknown, much to the dismay of many enthusiasts. They have called on relevant authorities to restore the Provincial Stadium climbing venue, preserving the city center’s only platform for training, exchange, and skill-sharing among rock climbing enthusiasts.

　　Despite the challenges, those passionate about rock climbing still give us hope. It’s reported that the “4th Guangdong Provincial Rock Climbing Championship” attracted nearly 200 enthusiastic participants, especially with strong interest from many teenagers, and many parents even showed up to cheer or join in—a phenomenon rare in other provinces and cities. According to the competition organizers, setting up youth and family categories was aimed at starting with children, using competitions to promote training and seek new breakthroughs for Guangdong’s rock climbing. In recent years, young athletes from Guangdong have also begun to shine and win championships at national youth competitions. With increasing attention and support from government authorities for national fitness initiatives, along with corresponding investments in funding and venues, Guangdong’s rock climbing—backed by a strong talent pool and broad public support—will surely achieve glory once again.

　　To help readers unfamiliar with rock climbing better understand the sport, reporters interviewed Zhou Lichao, the chief judge of the 4th Guangdong Provincial Rock Climbing Championship. For beginners interested in trying but never having participated, Zhou advised: “When it comes to rock climbing, the first thing to remember is safety—you must start learning and practicing under the guidance of a professional coach. This is especially true for winter climbing, where warm-up exercises are absolutely essential.” As for how to warm up, Zhou said: “It’s actually quite simple—jogging slowly, jumping in place, or doing stretches are all basic ways to warm up. You could even play basketball or soccer for a while. The goal is to loosen up all your joints.” Additionally, he suggested: “For your first climb, don’t choose something too difficult. Start with the simplest venue. Once you’ve broken a sweat, gotten familiar with the process, and mastered some techniques, you can then consider increasing the difficulty.”

　　As for who is best suited for this sport, Zhou said: “Rock climbing is the most age-inclusive sport. Regardless of gender or age, as long as you’re interested and your physical condition allows, we can train you to become an excellent climber.” He emphasized: “But from a long-term perspective, I think more young people should get involved. Actually, early childhood is the best stage to learn. And they look the coolest when climbing.” Zhou mentioned he has seen children as young as two or three years old practicing climbing. Compared to adults, their advantage lies in better body coordination. Notably, younger competitors often make for more exciting matches. Zhou explained: “Because children have less arm strength, they rely more on coordination and mid-air balance. So, when watching kids compete, it’s not just about height or difficulty—it’s also about their flexibility and limb coordination.”

　　As a sport suitable for all age groups, what specific requirements does it have for participants? Zhou stated that rock climbing has no strict restrictions—as long as you confirm you’re in good health and avoid climbing after drinking, safety is ensured. Interestingly, for those with acrophobia, climbing can actually help “eliminate” the fear. Zhou said: “Acrophobia is a psychological barrier that prevents many from trying rock climbing, but with guidance from an experienced coach, this challenge can definitely be overcome. There are many such examples among rock climbing enthusiasts.”

　　According to reports, there are currently around 2,000 amateur rock climbing enthusiasts in Guangdong who regularly participate in the sport. Whenever Guangdong hosts climbing competitions, they attract close to a thousand spectators—the number even exceeds that of national events. Incomplete statistics show that there are nearly a thousand amateur enthusiasts in the province who climb at least twice a month, indicating a relatively solid base of participants.

　　At a rock climbing gym in Guangzhou, reporters observed that even past 9 p.m., one climber was still deeply engrossed in practicing climbs under a coach’s guidance. Mr. Liu, who finished his session, shared: “I came here because a friend recommended it. At first, I was just joining in for fun, but after a few tries, I really fell in love with it. Today marks my third visit this month.” Liu also mentioned he plans to get his wife and child involved once he sees some progress himself. Before leaving, Liu introduced a climbing method suitable for beginners to practice basic movements—“bouldering.” He said: “For beginners, bouldering is quite challenging and quite a spectacle. Typically, beginners use bouldering to practice fundamental climbing techniques and get familiar with the skills involved.” His coach added: “Actually, rock climbing isn’t hard. As long as you overcome the mental fear, many people can develop great climbing skills.” Regarding the abilities needed for climbing, the coach said: “Try to use your legs and core to take pressure off your arms, which helps you last longer on the wall.” After hearing this, Liu said: “I haven’t met the coach’s standards yet—only having climbed three times, I’m already out of breath after a few minutes.” The coach responded: “For beginners, upper body strength is especially important. Weak arms can lead to fatigue quickly, and even strong legs won’t help maintain balance. So, focus on building arm strength, along with ankle, toe, and leg power, allowing your body’s center of gravity to shift smoothly with your movements. That way, hand and foot coordination will come naturally. Also, for beginners, climbing twice a week is ideal.”

　　During the interviews, reporters also met Mr. Wang, a retired government worker who still climbs regularly every week. He said: “Rock climbing isn’t really a high-risk activity. Since I started, aside from a minor ankle sprain, I haven’t had any real injuries.” Reflecting on his climbing experience, Wang shared: “Climbing really builds character. Each time, depending on the route, the required balance and explosive power vary. The joy of constantly challenging yourself is hard to describe unless you’ve tried it.”

　　Also, don’t assume rock climbing is only for men—many girls and even children can be found at climbing gyms. Whenever a girl bravely scales a cliff under a safety rope, onlookers often cheer loudly. When asked about her feelings on climbing, a woman in her early twenties said: “It’s hard to put into words. You have to experience it yourself to feel that sense of triumph and joy from overcoming yourself.” As urban living standards improve, people are focusing less on basic necessities and more on enhancing life quality and enrichment. Rock climbing is a sport that trains overall quality—it not only builds courage, strength, and flexibility, but also improves endurance and judgment, helping people navigate the competitive urban environment. She added that she plans to keep climbing and encourage more women to join.

　　Moreover, rock climbing is an excellent activity for all-around fitness. Children as young as 3 and seniors as old as 70 in good health can all participate. Coaches especially encourage children to join, as climbing can transform shy or introverted personalities, making them braver.

　　Climbing rope: Made from high-strength nylon woven in a special way, it has high elasticity and can absorb most of the impact from falls, reducing injury to the climber.

　　Harness: Helps distribute impact force. For convenience, it connects to the rope instead of tying the rope directly around the waist, making it more comfortable and safe.

　　Climbing shoes: Specially designed “small shoes” wrapped with high-friction rubber to cover all possible contact points of the feet.

　　Belay device: Also known as a descender, it uses friction between the device and the rope to slow and eventually stop the rope’s movement, ensuring the safety of a falling climber.

　　Carabiner: Used to connect the rope to protection points, the harness to the belay device, and to carry equipment.