Adventure

Climbing wall auto-belay

Climb roped walls on your own with automatic belays.

  • Moderateintensity
  • ~420kcal per hour
  • Low costbudget
  • Lowimpact
Climbing wall auto-belay illustration

Is climbing wall auto-belay right for you?

Climb roped walls on your own with automatic belays. It is a moderate-intensity, low impact activity that you can do indoors, on your own. Expect to burn around 420 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.

Anyone can start. Expect to spend up to about £20 a month.

Why try climbing wall auto-belay

  • Builds strength. It works your muscles hard enough to make you stronger over time.
  • Teaches a skill. There is always something new to learn, which keeps it interesting.
  • Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.

How to start climbing wall auto-belay

  1. Ask your climbing centre for an auto-belay induction.

  2. Get the basics: hire shoes, harness. Borrow or hire before you buy.

  3. Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.

  4. Stay safe at height: use an approved venue or a qualified instructor and check your kit every time.

A 4-week starter plan

WeekSessionsMinutes eachFocus
1220Learn the basics and keep every session easy.
2325Repeat last week and add a little time.
3330Add a session or make one a bit harder.
4340Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next.

This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.

Similar activities

Not sure climbing wall auto-belay is for you?

Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.

Open the activity matcher