Learn More About Climbing

What is the history of climbing?

Early records of men climbing mountains date back to 200 BC in China. The modern methods of rock climbing began with mountaineers in the late 1800s, who used similar techniques to reach their destined summits. As the century drew to a close, more casual participants took to the slopes and turned the alpine missions into a recreational activity.

Sport climbing is just one of several forms: free, aid, bouldering, solo, lead, multi-pitch, indoor, top rope, top belaying, and via feratta. There are also three disciplines within the competitive format, which are lead climbing, speed climbing, and bouldering. Most competitions also take place indoors on artificial rocks for better control of the environment.

Climbing at the Olympic Games

Sport climbing first entered consideration in 2015, when it joined a shortlist of events that included baseball, softball, surfing, skateboarding, and karate.

What are the current Olympic sport climbing events?

Sport climbing made its Olympic debut at the 2018 Youth Olympic Games and will again with adult athletes at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo.

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