Embrace the high life by discovering the benefits of climbing
Climbing can help you reach new heights with various benefits from raising fitness levels to improving mental health. That’s the view of John Dunne, CEO of Parthian Climbing (left in picture below) which runs centres in Southampton, Reading, Manchester and Harrogate.
Climbing has been credited with boosting mental health, combating stress and regulating emotional disorders. It can challenge your mind – without a screen in sight. There are a number of studies pointing to benefits to mental health. According to a study in 2016, sport climbing can help combat anxiety and improve self-confidence. While research in 2015 found bouldering can treat symptoms of depression.
Studies have also shown that spending time with friends helps many different mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety and overall stress. There’s also the opportunity to meet new people when you climb.
Tom Vaessen-Walker, Parthian Climbing Operations Director, said: “No matter what reason someone decides to try climbing we can help them either learn or improve their skills while having plenty of fun along the way. There are so many benefits including improving your mental and physical agility.”
Tom continued: “Climbing can help you stay focused and build your confidence as you develop your skills. Regular climbing can help create structure to help you get up and go. It’s available for all ages, shapes and sizes – much more so than attending a gym.”
There’s also the potential to put climbing skills to use outdoors which can help expand an active lifestyle.
Spending time close to nature when outdoor climbing can boost your mental and physical wellbeing. Climbing in a peaceful environment means you can hear the sounds of nature which can be relaxing. And breathing in fresh air can also help your mind relax.
Parthian Climbing offers introduction sessions to climbing for adults, children and families as well as free online induction videos on bouldering – a form of free climbing without the use of ropes or harnesses.
Tom added: “Climbing is a very social and inclusive activity that’s a great way to get your body moving through physical exertion and exercise your brain through logical thinking and problem solving.
“For many it’s the fun of the challenge, while others like to get competitive or particularly enjoy the social aspect. There’s a real sense of community and a supportive culture at our centres. Whether you want to climb solo or get together with others depending on your mood, it’s a great activity that attracts a diverse group of people.”
The weekly social clubs are popular – creating a meeting hub not just for exercise and can also help those who may otherwise feel isolated get to meet others. Events at Parthian Climbing help bring people together.
Some people have even taken up climbing to cure a fear of heights. Tom explained: “Climbing is safe because of impact matting on the ground and if you introduce yourself to heights you will slowly get used to them. This can help with a fear of heights if done slowly and gradually building up the height rather than pushing yourself into an extreme situation that would make you frightened.
“Our message is: whatever your motivation, come and give climbing a go. It could transform your life.”
Hire equipment is free with any session and can be hired when bouldering.
For more information:
Southampton Climbing centre – 0238 1103112
Email: [email protected]
Reading Climbing centre – 0118 975 6298
