Climbing to new heights-The therapeutic medium of rock climbing

Rock climbing as a leisure occupation has grown substantially in popularity at recreational and competitive levels in the last few decades. Rock climbing includes many different types or styles, affording options for various skill levels and interests, which makes it a fun and accessible way to engage in physical activity. The three most popular and accessible types of rock climbing include top rope climbing, sport climbing, and bouldering. Top rope climbing is when the climbing rope is passed through a top anchor between the belayer (the person on the ground who controls the rope) and climber, minimizing a fall if a climber were to let go. Top rope climbing is the safest form of rock climbing. Next, lead, or sport climbing, is a more advanced type of climbing in which the athlete places protection pieces within fixed bolts while ascending the side of the wall to reduce injury if they were to fall. Lastly, bouldering is climbing without a rope and performed at a height where it is relatively safe for the climber to jump off or fall onto a safety mat (often called a crash pad). Rock climbing offers a wide variety of physical and mental health benefits that are not always found in other sports.