Bouldering holds terminology. Terminology and climbing jargon are confusing.
Bouldering holds terminology Hearing unfamiliar words fly from the mouths of climbers when you have no idea what they are referring to can feel isolating. Feb 10, 2024 · Here are the most common climbing terms you're going to hear in an indoor rock climbing gym. Mar 6, 2025 · Belay, anchor, dyno, quickdraw, send — what do these all mean in the climbing world? Learn about these climbing terms and more in this article. May 20, 2024 · Get started climbing on the right foot by knowing the lingo! Here are 50 climbing terms you need to know to get out there confidently! Rock climbing is loaded with technical terms and jargon. Learn your on-sights from your off-widths and everything in between with this comprehensive guide to rock climbing terms and lingo. Mar 14, 2021 · If you’re new to climbing, it’s likely that rock climbing terminology are overwhelming you. I felt like I was listening to a different language! I eventually kept chatting with other climbers and learned this Aug 28, 2024 · Bouldering, a discipline within rock climbing, has its own unique language filled with terms that every climber should know. I know it's a long list but when I looked online I couldn't find something the resembled what I hear my buddies say in Spain - they also use some Galician words probably. Feb 15, 2025 · Common bouldering jargon creates a shared language among climbers at every crag and indoor gym. Generally it is acceptable to use a volume to aid in completing a climb regardless of which problem you are climbing. Glossary of climbing terms relates to rock climbing (including aid climbing, lead climbing, bouldering, and competition climbing), mountaineering, and to ice climbing. Aug 2, 2024 · Our expert guide to rock climbing terms, from equipment, moves and climbing styles to the the esoteric slang used by seasoned climbers I would love a link or a list of commonly used bouldering and rock climbing terms and phrases used. Words like “jug” (large, easy-to-grip holds) and “crash pad” (safety cushions) float around climbing gyms daily. While they can be smaller or bigger, this is a general definition of each type of climbing hold: Crimp: A hold big enough to fit your fingertips. Oct 20, 2016 · Master common rock climbing holds terminology and practice your techniques when you visit Kendall Cliffs indoor rock climbing gym. [1][2][3] The terms used can vary between different English-speaking countries; many of the phrases described here are particular to the United States and the United Kingdom. Nov 2, 2023 · In the intricate world of rock climbing, the term “gaston” might sound foreign to many, but it’s a technique you’ll most definitely come across at some point in your climbing, whether that’s indoors or outdoors. Crux: The hardest part of a route. Learn how to talk like a climber with help from our comprehensive glossary. Pressure Breathing Forcefully exhaling to facilitate O2/CO2 exchange at altitude. When I'm in the gym with my buddies they talk about the following things commonly. So, are you stoked to talk the talk as you walk the vertical walk? Let’s climb on! If you’re curious about the origins of rock climbing, check out our article on who What does it all mean?!? Louis tries to explain as much climbing jargon as he can, as fast as he can. It’s common for climbers to exchange beta, or the Mar 11, 2025 · New to climbing? Learn essential bouldering common terms like crux, dyno, and flash, to improve your skills and communicate like a pro. Climbing Terms Glossary Introduction Back to contents The present Climbing Terms Glossary is a list of definitions of terms, jargon and lingo related to all styles of rock climbing covered on theCrag. Jun 24, 2024 · Get ready to scale new heights with the lingo that’ll make you a rock climbing insider! As you strap on your harness and chalk up your hands, these 30 must-know terms will transform you from a groundling to a cragmaster. As for the content on theCrag, this glossary relies on the input of you, the users of theCrag for updates, corrections and more precise definitions. Do you know your gaston from your guppy, and can you spray about it while sandbagging your mate? Find out what it all means with our guide to climbing terminology. . Finger Tape Tape used on fingers (and some other parts of the body such as toes) that can be used to support and protect them. For a proper start on a bouldering problem, have hands and feet on the marked start holds and no part of the body in contact with the ground. It’s a dance of trust and Jun 24, 2024 · Get ready to scale new heights with the lingo that’ll make you a rock climbing insider! As you strap on your harness and chalk up your hands, these 30 must-know terms will transform you from a groundling to a cragmaster. CLIMBING TERMINOLOGY Climbing is dangerous, it involves inherent and other risks and cannot be made safe. Jul 11, 2023 · Beta, Crux, Crimp, Send, Free Solo—key rock climbing terms and lingo explained for new climbers, with reference photos for each Feb 13, 2025 · Rock climbing and bouldering come with specific terms that climbers need to know. Here is a dictionary of climbing terms for various types of climbing (Bouldering, Top Rope, and Sports Climbing) so you know what other climbers are saying and how to join in on the conversation. Jug: A large in-cut hold that the fingers can grab into. Feb 23, 2020 · We provide an indepth look at bouldering, exploring bouldering history, what is boulding and how to start bouldering. Jan 22, 2021 · Bouldering is one of the many exciting forms of rock climbing and can be done indoors and outdoors. Mar 1, 2025 · Grip terminology stands as the basic language of bouldering. Pinches require thumb opposition, while pockets fit one to three fingers inside small Feb 20, 2025 · Beginner climbing terms unlock the door to bouldering, a sport filled with unique vocabulary that can puzzle newcomers. This article is designed to guide you through the different holds categories that cover the walls of indoor climbing gyms, shedding light on the terms used and offering a few useful tips. We will explore some of the most common climbing terms to help you communicate more effectively with other climbers and enhance your overall climbing experience. Apr 5, 2024 · From crimps to jugs, pockets to slopers, the world of climbing holds is diverse and complex. Bolt On A climbing hold seen in indoor climbing gyms that is bolted to the wall. Here is our comprehensive, though not exhaustive glossary of climbing terms. The gaston is a unique climbing move where climbers use their arms and palms to push outwards, as opposed to the conventional pulling motion towards the body. Climbers shout “Take!” when they need slack, or “On belay!” to signal readiness. Here are the common terms you can begin mastering. Climbing, like many sports, is full of its jargon. The information presented here does not describe all of the risks associated with climbing and is not intended to replace or supersede expert instruction and training. Dec 13, 2022 · If you are getting into rock climbing, one important thing to learn is the vocabulary. Crimp: A type of climbing hold. TYPES OF CLIMBING BOULDERING Bouldering is the most straight forward and most accessible… Get familiar with the specialized language of bouldering, including terms for holds, moves, and techniques, and enhance your understanding of the sport and its culture. RP A brass nut used in climbing. Sep 18, 2025 · This climbing glossary covers essential techniques, equipment, grades, and slang to help scale up your experience of this thrilling sport. By understanding the various grip terminology, you can better strategize your moves and conquer even the most challenging routes. Bouldering holds and rock climbing holds are the same in regards to climbing terminology. Bouldering Terms and Definitions The following A to Z of bouldering terms and terminology, taken from Bouldering Essentials, contains the definition of pretty much every word related to bouldering from the most basic to the obscure. Whether you’re scaling sandstone, granite, or limestone, or mastering techniques like heel hooks and dynos, understanding bouldering terminology is key to improving your skills and communicating with fellow climbers. Terminology and climbing jargon are confusing. Each hold type demands specific hand positions – crimps grip tiny edges with bent fingers, slopers need open-palm pressure on rounded surfaces, and jugs allow full-hand wraps for maximum security. Crash Pad aka Bouldering Mat A mat used when outdoor bouldering to protect a climber by cushioning their fall. There is also a double dyno which involves both hands catching two holds Jan 5, 2024 · An experienced climber will be able to recognise different bouldering holds and know how best to use them from just looking at the wall. It is a unique sport in itself (making its way into the 2021 Olympics), as well as a useful tool to improve strength and skills for better performance in other climbing styles. Problem Used in bouldering, the path that a climber takes in order to complete the climb. This comprehensive glossary covers essential rock climbing terms, from basic equipment to advanced techniques. Words like belay (the rope system that keeps you safe), crimp (a tiny hold you grip with fingertips), and beta (tips for a route) aren’t just jargon—they’re lifelines. When climbers discuss the “crux” – the hardest part of a route – they’re pinpointing critical sections that demand extra focus. From basic terms like “crimps” (small finger holds) to advanced beta calls such as “gaston” (an outward-facing grip position), these words form the essential language of climbing. Improve your bouldering skills by learning about the different types of climbing holds, how to identify them, and the most effective ways to hold and maneuver on each type. Also called the “Whittaker wheeze”. "Bouldering terms and definitions" provides insights to most terms and phrases that describe the movements and techniques used in bouldering. Think of any silly climbing lingo we've missed? Let us Feb 27, 2025 · Technical terms fill the bouldering world, creating a language unique to climbers at the gym or crag. Launch Pad A smaller bouldering mat that is Nov 8, 2023 · Discover the world of rock climbing lingo in this comprehensive guide to rock climbing slang and terminology from from ‘crux’ to ‘beta,’ and more. We understand it can be really hard to keep up with all the rock climbing terms around you. May 4, 2022 · Don't know a handjam from a belay? Our climbing dictionary is here to help, with a list of climbing's common terms. Climb on! Jun 12, 2023 · When starting out rock climbing, there is a lot you need to learn. Feb 16, 2024 · For newcomers and intermediate boulderers alike, deciphering the lexicon of holds can sometimes seem as dizzying as the walls themselves. Flash? Crimp? Slab? Sometimes you just need a simple explanation especially if you’re a beginner climber or even a long-time member of your local gym. “Beta” signals the specific sequence of movements needed to complete a problem, while “dyno” refers to those explosive jumps between holds. “Spotting Jul 23, 2023 · Explore the top 100 rock climbing terms with clear definitions to enhance your understanding of this adventurous sport. Oct 8, 2024 · Below are the most common types of holds that you’ll find at the climbing gym. When you are hanging around other climbers and working on similar bouldering problems, you are likely to strike up a conversation that includes some odd rock climbing terms. Jan 27, 2022 · If you're cruxing out on climbing vocab, check out GearJunkie's guide to the jargon — from gripping onsights to jingus gear and more. holds slopers crimps pinches changing feet Learn about different types of climbing holds and get tips on how to use them. com Jun 7, 2024 · Bouldering is hard enough as it is, but understanding bouldering terms and lingo is a challenge in itself! When I first started climbing, I remember getting confused between the names of different holds and body movements that I couldn’t follow along in every conversation. Words like “beta” (climbing sequence), “dyno” (dynamic jump move), and “crimp” (gripping tiny holds) flow through conversations near the chalk-dusted walls. Feb 9, 2020 · Have your friends taken you rock climbing but you found yourself lost in what seemed like a completely different language? Climbers use a lot of jargon to describe their sport, talk about their projects, rant about conditions and discuss beta. Feb 11, 2025 · Bouldering vocabulary opens up a world of precise movement descriptions and safety communication at the climbing gym. Aug 11, 2024 · Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that challenges both body and mind. Kinda like beta Mar 8, 2025 · Climbing’s got its own language, a mix of grit and precision that binds climbers together. What is the bouldering definitions table? This table is a glossary of bouldering terms, definitions and examples in english. From jugs to crimps, slopers to pinches, and the materials they're made of, this guide dives deep into the evolution, types, and intricacies of climbing holds, helping climbers and enthusiasts better understand their indoor climbing experience. These terms, while puzzling at first, serve as essential building blocks for understanding climbing movements and techniques Jan 10, 2021 · They come in various sizes, and can be used as hand and foot holds. So, are you stoked to talk the talk as you walk the vertical walk? Let’s climb on! A large triangular or rounded hold which other holds can be mounted on. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, understanding the lingo is crucial for communicating effectively with fellow climbers and staying safe on the wall. From essential safety words like “belayer” (the person controlling the safety rope) to movement-based terms such as “crux” (the hardest part of a climb), these phrases form the basic language of climbing. Mono: A pocket that you can only fit one finger into. The climbing community uses this shared terminology to describe routes, movements, and See full list on topbouldering. This is where the climber makes a dynamic move using momentum to reach the next climbing hold. Rock climbing terminology is often the most confusing, intimidating part of the sport for a new climber. … May 19, 2014 · Positive A hold or part of a hold, having a surface facing upwards, or away from the direction it is pulled, facilitating use. The climber must be in control of the position. This technique Here are some climbing movement terms: Gaston (pronounced like GAS-STONE) - A move where you push away from your hold with your elbow out and palm pushing against the hold. Mar 13, 2023 · Climbing is an exciting and challenging sport that requires skill, strength, and endurance. Here’s some beta on how to navigate and translate this foreign language. Oct 12, 2022 · Dyno climbing term originates from the word “dynamic”. Fortunately, we at The Adventure Junkies are here to add May 3, 2022 · Learn the foundational terms and vocabulary to help you understand and anticipate your first outdoor or indoor rock climbing experience with a guide or instructor. How to start bouldering, improve your bouldering performance and more Sep 25, 2023 · Explore the diverse world of indoor rock climbing holds. It is a committed movement where the climbers’ feet will leave the wall to dyno to the next climbing hold. Glossary of Climbing Terms Arête – An outside corner Boulder – Unroped climbing not far from the ground (12 feet or less) with an emphasis on movement and strength Crimp – A thin climbing hand hold that requires one to “crimp”; also known as crimper Crimping – A rock climbing maneuver that requires a closed-hand grip on a thin climbing hold Crux – The most difficult section of a Whether you're a seasoned climber or new to the vertical world, understanding climbing terminology and techniques can enhance your experience and help you connect with the climbing community. If you think of any definitions that are missing get in touch. Mar 23, 2018 · Whenever you’re climbing, indoors or out, you may hear or find yourself using all sorts of climbing jargon. New to climbing? Learn the lingo with our Climbing Terms Guide & get familiar with key phrases, techniques & gear used in the sport. Crag: A commonly used term to refer to any climbing area. Crash pad: A crash pad is a portable mat designed to cushion your fall while bouldering. Each type of hold requires a different approach and technique in order to successfully navigate a climbing route. Fortunately, a large chunk of the vocabulary revolves around the types of climbing holds and their names. In a good finish, both hands are in contact with the finish hold. The more you know, the more you know. Characterized by small edges that one can barely hang onto. Everything you need to know about bouldering for beginners and intermediate climbers. However, bouldering is usually more difficult to use and require a more refined technique. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber, understanding the terminology associated with climbing is essential.