IFSC UPDATE: Understanding the Age Category Changes for 2025
Ahead of the 2025 Boulder, Lead and Speed season, the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) have made changes to how they define age categories.
Ahead of the 2025 Boulder, Lead and Speed / Sport Climbing season, the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) have made changes to how they define age categories.
To help navigate the new age categories, we have broken down the changes and what it means for competitors.
The IFSC’s goal is to create consistency across sports and international competitions. The BMC will align with global standards to ensure fairness and clarity for athlete and organisers.
What are the changes for 2025?
The IFSC is shifting how these age categories are defined. Currently, climbers’ age groups are based on the calendar year they were born. This system is being updated to align more closely with international sports standards, such as those used in athletics and other Olympic sports.
The BMC is adopting the IFSC’s age categories new framework for the BMC Youth categories starting in 2025, please refer to the table below for information.
Key changes Explained
Climbing age 'rolls forward in January
- An athlete’s competition age category for the entire year will be determined by their age on December 31 of that year.
- For example, if a climber turns 14 on November 10, they’ll compete in the U15 category all year long, even if they’re still technically 13 during the earlier part of the year.
Clear two-year bands
- Each Youth category remains a two-year group. As climbers grow older, they’ll transition smoothly from one category to the next.
How will the updates affect competitors?
For most athletes, the changes may not feel drastic. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Check your 2025 category
Use the new system to confirm which group you or your child will compete in.
Plan training accordingly
Athletes who must wait an additional year to compete internationally due to age restrictions face unique challenges. This extra time can be used strategically to refine skills, build experience in domestic competitions, and tailor training programs to ensure they are fully prepared when they become eligible for international events.
If you’re unsure about which category you or your athlete falls into, refer to the table above or consult with competition organisers.
For more enquiries, please contact zoe@thebmc.co.uk (Competitions Programmes Manager)
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