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Bouldering

Have you ever wondered what the difference between Rock Climbing and Bouldering are? After all, isn't Rock climbing sort of climbing up Boulders? Unless you are already an outdoor enthusiast, you may not know the difference.

Bouldering is different from rock climbing in a surprising number of ways. First, Bouldering generally involves much shorter distances and is less about stamina and more about strength and problem solving. In fact, the British term for a Boulder ascent is “Problem”.

Secondly, Bouldering has much less equipment. There are no ropes and harnesses, no belay devices, nothing except you and the rock. This is one of the reasons Bouldering deals with lower heights, because when you lose your grip and take a fall, you fall all the way; it's straight to the ground for you, my friend. Mats are usually set up below the climber to cushion the fall.

Thirdly, the grading system, which determines the difficulty of a climb, is different. Rock Climbers typically use the Yosemite Decimal system or the British System. As bouldering involves different factors which rate a Problem's Difficulty, their system is different, and the most common system in use is the Fontainebleau, and the Gill “B” system.

Bouldering is gaining in popularity, partially because you don't need as much equipment to get started, which can be a detriment for many people. Many rock-climbing clubs and gyms now have bouldering on their premises, and often offer classes.