You don't need much climbing equipment to start climbing indoors. When you first go, you can hire it all. However, once you're hooked, you'll soon want to buy your own kit.

indoor climbing gear:

• Rock shoes
   
• Chalk bag - one big enough to get your hand in!
   
• Chalk ball - use chalks balls (not loose chalk) in climbing walls to reduce the amount of dust
   
• Harness - all harnesses have to meet the same standards, and different people will find different brands most comfortable.  The choice is between adjustable or non adjustable leg loops. Again this will be down to individual preference.
   
• Belay device - choose a device with 'grooves', as this will provide more friction when belaying - an important consideration in climbing walls. To be able to belay competently is a vital climbing skill, as when done wrong serious injuries can result. When you buy equipment ALWAYS read the manufacturer's instructions before use. It's also a good idea to read the BMC's belaying leaflet to get some essential tips.
   
• Large screwgate carabiner suitable for belaying
   
• Loose or lycra clothing - but no so baggy that it gets caught in your belay device!
   
• For young children, using a full body harness and a helmet is common practice. Non-climbing parents can download the parents' guide to get some idea about what climbing entails.
   
• Rope - climbing walls generally have ropes for top-roping but when you move on to leading routes you will need to take a rope with you.

Don't want to miss out on the climbing competition action? Whether you're a competitor, spectator or volunteer, sign up to the climbing calendar mailing list to get reminders for comp registrations, and start times here.

JOIN THE BMC: Save 50% on your first year's membership

The BMC works for indoor climbers like you. Benefits include:

• Retail discounts
• Access to BMC Travel Insurance
• Register for Mountain Training award schemes
• £10m worldwide Combined Liability insurance
• £10,000 Personal Accident insurance
• Discounted entry to many competitions

Find out more about BMC membership benefits

WATCH: Molly Thompson-Smith: Portrait of a Champion on BMC TV

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Follow the BMC's competition climbing Instagram feed: @GB_Climbing

Find all upcoming competitions here.

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