1. Pulling Instead of Pushing
One of the first things new climbers do is rely too much on their arms. Pulling yourself up might feel instinctive, but your arms will tire out fast if you don’t engage your legs.
How to Avoid It: Shift your mindset—think about climbing as “pushing” with your legs, not “pulling” with your arms. Your legs are much stronger and designed to take on more of the work. Need help figuring it out? Our Magic Moves circuit at The Climbing Hangar has climbs specifically designed to teach you how to use your legs effectively, like the rock over technique.
2. Forgetting About Footwork
It’s tempting to focus all your attention on your hands and the holds above you. But climbing is as much about your feet as your hands. Poor foot placement makes it harder to balance and wastes energy.
How to Avoid It: Slow down and take the time to place your feet deliberately. Look for stable footholds and trust them. Practicing techniques like foot swaps (part of our Magic Moves circuit) can make a huge difference in your climbing game.
3. Rushing Through the Climb
Climbing isn’t a race. Moving too quickly often leads to sloppy technique, missed holds, and unnecessary falls.
How to Avoid It: Climbing is like solving a puzzle. Take a moment to look at the wall and plan your next move. Climbing at a steady, controlled pace helps you conserve energy and learn how to move efficiently.
4. Overgripping the Holds
Gripping too tightly on the holds is a classic beginner move. It might feel safer, but it burns through your energy fast.
How to Avoid It: Relax. You only need enough grip to stay secure on the wall. Focus on using your feet and engaging your core to distribute the effort.
5. Skipping the Warm-Up
It’s easy to skip warming up when you’re eager to get on the wall, but diving straight into climbing can leave you feeling stiff or even lead to injuries.
How to Avoid It: Spend a few minutes warming up your fingers, shoulders, and legs before your first climb. At The Climbing Hangar, our coaches can guide you through simple exercises to get you ready to move.
6. Comparing Yourself to Others
It’s easy to feel intimidated when you see experienced climbers casually sending routes that seem impossible. But comparing your beginning to someone else’s years of practice is a trap.
How to Avoid It: Focus on your own progress. Everyone starts somewhere, and every climb you complete is a step forward. Celebrate your personal wins, no matter how small they feel.
7. Not Asking for Help
Climbing gyms are full of friendly, knowledgeable people who love sharing tips. Yet, many beginners hesitate to ask questions, worried they’ll look inexperienced.
How to Avoid It: Remember, everyone in the gym was new once. At The Climbing Hangar, we make it easy for beginners with a free coach-led introduction to climbing. Our team is here to help you feel confident and get the most out of your session.
8. Thinking Strength Is Everything
Climbing might look like a test of brute strength, but it’s actually more about technique, balance, and problem-solving. Relying on raw power alone will only get you so far.
How to Avoid It: Pay attention to your body positioning, balance, and movement. Our Magic Moves circuit introduces techniques like mantles and body tension, helping you learn how to climb smarter—not harder.
9. Avoiding Challenges
It’s tempting to stick to climbs that feel easy, but avoiding more difficult routes won’t help you improve.
How to Avoid It: Step outside your comfort zone! Try climbs that challenge you—even if you don’t finish them at first. The process of working through harder routes teaches you new techniques and builds confidence.
Mistakes are part of learning, and every climber has made them at some point. The good news? Avoiding these common pitfalls will make your climbing sessions more fun and rewarding.
At The Climbing Hangar, we’re here to support you whether it’s your first time on the wall or you’re leveling up your skills. With our free intro sessions and Magic Moves circuit, you’ll have everything you need to improve while having a blast.
So, what are you waiting for? Ready to start climbing smarter?