Fit to Climb: Why Rock Climbing Is One of the Best Full-Body Workouts You Can Do

Looking for a fun way to keep fit? Tired of spending hours in the gym?

Then it’s time to try something new — like rock climbing.

This activity doesn’t just burn massive calories. It also tones your body from head to toe, building strength and endurance. Not to mention that you’ll feel energized and empowered after each session.

Depending on your weight, you can burn anywhere between 330 and 488 calories in just 30 minutes of rock climbing. That’s about 660 to 976 calories per hour. The heavier you are, the higher your energy expenditure.

Believe it or not, rock climbing might be the best full-body workout there is. It gets your heart pumping harder, engages all muscles, and builds overall strength.

Need more proof?

Let’s break down the health and fitness benefits of rock climbing so you can decide whether it’s right for you!

Get the Best Full-Body Workout

Rock climbing is one of the few activities that hit nearly every muscle in your body.

It engages your back, biceps, calves, and forearm flexors, as well as your core muscles.

The primary muscle targeted is the latissimus dorsi, which keeps you in balance as you pull yourself upward. When you’re bending your arms, your biceps come into play. The forearm flexors allow you to grip the rock.

Indoor climbing is just as beneficial for your muscles and overall fitness. It requires powerful bursts of strength, engaging all major muscle groups. At the same time, it raises your heart rate and builds cardiovascular endurance.

Boost Your Athletic Performance

This form of exercise does more than build and maintain lean mass.

It also improves athletic performance, leading to greater strength, power, and stamina.

A recent study published in the Iranian Journal of Public Health assessed the effects of rock climbing on physical fitness.

College students who engaged in this activity experienced significant improvements in handgrip strength, pedaling power, and vertical jump. They also became better at push-ups, pull-ups, sit-ups, and other bodyweight exercises that require a lot of strength and endurance.

Subjects also experienced a small reduction in body fat mass. As the researchers point out, longer workouts would likely result in significant fat loss.

Build Core Strength

A stronger core is perhaps of the primary benefits of rock climbing.

This fun yet challenging activity engages your core muscles, leading to a tighter midsection and improved overall fitness.

Core strength has a direct impact on your sports performance and everyday activities. If these muscles are strong, you’ll find it easier to run, jump, and carry heavy items. On top of that, back pain will soon become just a bad memory.

Weak core muscles are often to blame for lower back pain, poor posture, and diminished mobility.

By working these muscles, you’ll have better posture, reduce your injury risk, and find it easier to reach your fitness goals.

Climb Your Way to a Stronger, Leaner Body

So, what are you waiting for?

Hit the rock climbing wall for the best full-body workout you’ve ever had! It’s fun and safe for all ages.

Need a quick boost of motivation to start your rock climbing journey?

Check out our online shop for cool T-shirts, sports bras, leggings, and sports accessories!