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Beginning Rock Climbing

            Are you interested in Rock Climbing, but have never had the opportunity or guts to really try it out? Do you wish you could join in on those conversations at parties where friends discuss the latest climbs and adventures they have been on, rather than standing there awkwardly with a drink in your hand and nothing to say? 

            You are not the only one.  And you may think your only option is to ask your friends to teach you, but that is not the case. Rather than trying to suffer through the embarrassment of having your expert friends you would rather impress watch you struggle through the basics, here are some places that offer rock climbing classes in a more educational environment:

1. Through a University:  Most colleges offer these classes, and you will be surrounded by other beginners, who, like you, would rather not embarrass themselves in front of friends and colleagues.  The only person who knows what they are doing is the teacher, and he already knows you are going to be terrible.  All gear is included, and there are usually semester-long classes, or sometimes shorter classes are offered, such as three-week or six-week sessions.
2.  Through a Climbing Gym:  These classes are usually a bit more expensive, but can work into your busy schedule better.   You will be in  an open gym and may be spotted by more expert climbers, but the one-on-one instructor options may make it worth it. 
3. If you are a single, sometimes it is as easy as finding a guy or who likes rock climbing, and telling them you've always wanted to learn.  Instant date, and they will love teaching you.  If you don't mind looking silly and having a good time on a date, it can be a great way to both learn and get to know someone's personality.

There are many ways to get started, but obviously SOMEONE is going to have to take you by the hand.  Rock Climbing is not like Knitting, you can't buy a book and some equipment and do it by yourself.  However, the exhilaration of reaching the top, of building your strength, and creating a new hobby definitely makes it worth it.