Sport Climbing

Artificial Rock Climbing wall is an artificially constructed wall with grips/holds for hands and feet, used for climbing. They were being used for climbing as a quick practice environment for rock climbing, when actual rock was unavailable. Over the years, it has developed into a professional independent sport. Climbing on artificial walls provides a stable and controllable atmosphere and can suit all levels of climbers. Also, it is becoming an increasingly popular urban sport that provides many people an opportunity to train for rock climbing activities.

In attempting a given climbing route, the climber is only allowed to use grips/holds of the designated color as handholds and footholds and surface structures/textures of the "rock-face" as footholds. The person who has the capability to design a route for climbers is called as route-setter. 

For the first time in the history of India, the nation hosted IFSC World Cup at Navi Mumbai during 13^th – 15^th May 2016. Climbers from all over the world participated in the bouldering competition for both men and women categories. A new sport has begun to emerge in Indian sports sector. A sport which does not have any age limit. Anyone can learn, practice and participate as per his/her choice and physical endurance level. In 2020 Tokyo Olympics, Sport Climbing is an officially sport event.

The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) was created unanimously by its members on January 27^th, 2007. Situated in New Delhi, Indian mountaineering Foundation (IMF) looks after sport climbing in India. Every year they take initiative in organizing sports climbing competition. The competitions are held in two sages Zonal and National. To qualify for a national competition, one must go through zonal competition in respective zone. The entry for zonal competition is open for anyone who wishes to. First three rankers from each category are recommended for the National competition.

There are 5 zones declared by IMF which participate in national competition. From each zone around 30 climbers (girls, boys, men and women) are selected and recommended for national competition. And after observing a performance of a climber at zonal and national level 3-5 climbers from each category (girls, boys, women and men) in each event (lead climbing, speed climbing and bouldering) are selected for international level. IMF conducts a training cap of all such climbers and recommends capable climbers on Asian and international levels to represent India.

Improvement in flexibility & Provides high core strength workout

Builds muscular endurance

Climbing is considered as a dynamic meditation, as focused & swift movements involved in climbing, require calmness and concentration of mind.

It is a community sport and helps sensitize caring attitude among the climbing team.