Climbing Gym Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules

Do not climb over or under someone

The most important rule in any gym is about space. Never climb directly above or below another person, and never walk under someone who is on the wall. If either of you falls, someone gets hurt. Look up before you start, and give people room to move and to come down.

Mind the mats and the fall zone

The padded area under a boulder is a landing zone, not a lounge. Do not sit, stand or leave your bag, your chalk or your phone on the mats while others are climbing. Keep the space under and around active climbers clear so a fall lands safely.

Wait your turn and share the wall

• If someone is working a problem, let them finish their attempts before you jump on it.
• Do not crowd a route or give unasked for advice, which climbers call spraying beta.
• On busy evenings, rest away from the wall so others can climb between your attempts.

Keep it clean

• Brush the chalk and skin off holds when you are done with a hard problem.
• Keep loose chalk to a minimum, and use a chalk ball if your gym asks for one.
• Wipe your shoes before you climb so you do not grind grit into the holds.

Be a good partner and a good beginner

If you are belaying, pay full attention and never look at your phone while your climber is on the wall. If you are new, it is completely fine to ask questions. Every strong climber was a beginner once, and most are happy to help. Just ask before touching anyone else's gear or joining their session.

The short version

Watch out for other people, keep the mats and holds clean, wait your turn, and be friendly. Do that and you will fit right in. If you are just getting started, our guide to bouldering for beginners covers your first session, and the Climbers Delight newsletter helps you keep learning the culture of the sport.