Without ropes or harnesses, bouldering is a type of rock climbing that is often done at heights under 20 feet. Because bouldering is frequently done on synthetic climbing walls, the number of bouldering gyms has increased recently. But how much room is necessary to set up a bouldering gym?
The number of climbers you want to accommodate, the size of the walls you want to construct, and any extra amenities you want to incorporate like a training area or retail space, will all affect the answer to this question. To accommodate 50 climbers, you need at least 1,000 square feet of space, according to a standard rule of thumb.
The numerous hold types and climbing methods should be taken into account while creating a bouldering gym. A DeadPoint, for instance, is a technique in which the climber jumps and grabs a hold at the peak of the jump. To do this maneuver safely, the climber needs enough room to jump and land. The climber must drag themself towards the wall utilizing an outward-facing hold in order to perform a Gaston move. This maneuver needs a wall with adequate room for the climber’s body to fit while in this posture.
The type of material utilized to construct the walls is another factor. MDF (medium-density fiberboard) is a common material for indoor climbing walls, however because of its poor durability and propensity to shatter under stress, it is not advised for bouldering gyms. Instead, strong materials that can survive wear and tear from frequent use, such plywood or concrete, are advised. The Moon Board, a standardized training board created to advance climbers’ skills and technique, is a popular addition to bouldering gyms. Climbers can chart their progress and evaluate how they stack up against others across the world using the Moon Board, which is 8 feet tall by 12 feet wide and has a set of grips and difficulties that are common to all Moon Board installations.
In summary, the size of the walls, the number of climbers, and any other features all affect how much room is required for a bouldering gym. It’s crucial to think about the various holds and climbing methods climbers employ as well as the materials used to construct the walls. Last but not least, including elements like a Moon Board can improve climbers’ experiences and offer an additional training tool.
Although it is technically possible to attach rock climbing holds to a tree, it is not advised for safety reasons. The holds themselves may break or become loose over time, and as trees are living things, the bolts used to secure them may harm them. In order to ensure safety, it is crucial to employ appropriate climbing gear and structures.