Published on February 4, 2026 - News
Climbing Do’s and Don’ts – Keeping You Safe in Our Indoor Arena
Rock climbing is one of those rare activities that truly brings people together. It’s physical without being intimidating, challenging without being exclusive, and exciting whether you’re six or sixty. At Rock Up, we see it every day: friends laughing their way up the walls, parents climbing alongside their children, and first-timers discovering they’re capable of far more than they expected.
Indoor climbing is a fantastic way to build strength, confidence, coordination, and resilience. It’s also an ideal group activity; it’s perfect for families looking to spend quality time together, adults searching for a fun alternative to the gym, or anyone keen to try something new.
That said, climbing is an adventurous activity, and adventure only stays fun when it’s done properly. That’s why safety is absolutely central to everything we do at Rock Up. Our indoor climbing arenas are designed to be welcoming and suitable for all climbing abilities, but they also operate under strict safety rules that everyone must follow.
When you climb with Rock Up, you’re stepping into an environment where excitement and responsibility go hand in hand.
The Importance of Safety at Rock Up
Safety isn’t a box we tick; it’s the foundation of every climbing session we run.
No one is permitted into the climbing arena without the appropriate safety gear, and no one is allowed to climb without first attending a compulsory safety briefing. This applies to everyone, without exception. Whether it’s your very first visit or your fiftieth, the same rules apply across the board.
At Rock Up, safety is our number one priority. Even highly experienced climbers must follow our systems and procedures. This ensures consistency, reduces risk, and creates an environment where everyone can relax and enjoy themselves.
Belay Devices
We use automatic belay devices throughout our arenas to keep climbers secure. Before climbing, each participant clips in to access the wall. The device manages the rope tension throughout the climb, allowing climbers to focus on movement and technique. When it’s time to come down, the system provides a smooth, controlled descent back to the ground.
Our automatic belays operate within a weight range of 35lbs to 287lbs, making them suitable for both children and adults of varying shapes and sizes. This means families can climb together, confident that the equipment is designed to support them safely.
Safety Briefing
Before entering the climbing area, all climbers attend a mandatory safety briefing delivered by our trained team members. During this briefing, we explain how the equipment works, how to clip in correctly, how to descend safely, and what behaviour is expected in the arena. Our staff continue to monitor safety throughout every session, offering guidance, reassurance, and intervention where necessary.
For parents, this structure offers real peace of mind. Everything in our arenas is designed to help children feel secure, supported, and confident while still enjoying the thrill of climbing independently.
If you’re new to climbing, you’re not expected to know everything. That’s our job.
The Do’s and Don’ts of Climbing in Our Arena
Once you’ve completed your safety briefing and you’re clipped in, it’s time to get climbing. To help everyone have the best possible experience, we ask all climbers to follow these essential do’s and don’ts.
The Do’s
Do listen carefully during the safety briefing - The safety briefing is there to protect you. Even if you’ve climbed elsewhere before, our equipment, layouts, and procedures may differ. Paying attention ensures you understand exactly how to climb safely in our arena.
Do wear suitable clothing and footwear - Comfort and movement matter. Choose flexible clothing that allows you to stretch, reach, and move freely. Secure footwear is essential to maintain good grip and balance on the wall.
Do clip-in correctly every single time - Before leaving the ground, make sure you are properly clipped in and checked. Our automatic belay systems are extremely reliable — but only when used as instructed.
Do climb within your own ability - Challenge yourself, but don’t feel pressured to climb higher or faster than you’re comfortable with. Progression comes naturally over time, and there’s no competition unless you want one.
Do be aware of your surroundings - Take a moment to check what’s happening around you before you start climbing or descending. Awareness helps keep everyone safe.
Do encourage and support others - Climbing is a shared experience. A bit of encouragement can make a huge difference, particularly for children and first-time climbers who may be building confidence.
The Don’ts
Don’t enter the climbing area without authorisation - If you haven’t completed the safety briefing or don’t have the correct gear, climbing is not permitted. These rules exist to protect you and others.
Don’t run or play beneath the walls - Active climbing areas need to stay clear at all times. Running or rough play can lead to accidents and puts climbers at risk.
Don’t unclip until you are safely back on the ground - Always wait until you have completed your descent and are standing securely before unclipping from the system.
Don’t distract other climbers - Climbing requires focus. Avoid shouting instructions or grabbing attention while someone is on the wall.
Don’t ignore instructions from staff - Our team members are trained to identify potential risks and manage the arena safely. If they step in or give guidance, it’s always in the interest of safety.
What to Expect on Your First Visit to a Rock Up Indoor Climbing Arena
If you’ve never wall climbed in an indoor arena before, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
When you arrive at your local Rock Up, you’ll be welcomed by our team and guided through the check-in process. We’ll help you get fitted with the appropriate safety gear and let you know when your safety briefing will begin. Our team has worked hard to make sure the briefing is clear, practical, and designed to make you feel confident, not overwhelmed.
Once you enter the climbing arena, you’ll find a variety of wall routes designed for different abilities. Some are perfect for beginners; others offer a more physical challenge. There’s no pressure to try everything. Most climbers start low, build confidence, and naturally progress as they go.
Spectators are welcome; each of our Rock Up arenas has a café to grab some refreshments and watch the action. If you’re a parent bringing your children along, you’re welcome to get as involved as you would like; this could be watching or climbing alongside your child. Our arenas are built to support shared experiences while still allowing individuals to move at their own pace.
By the end of your first session, most people are already planning their next visit!
Why Indoor Climbing at Rock Up Is Ideal for Families and Adults
Indoor climbing removes many of the barriers that can make outdoor climbing feel inaccessible. There’s no reliance on weather, no specialist knowledge required, and no need to invest in expensive equipment upfront.
For adults, it’s a full-body workout that feels more like play than exercise. For children, it builds strength, coordination, problem-solving skills, and confidence. For families, it’s a chance to do something genuinely engaging together.
Most importantly, it’s an environment where safety is carefully managed, allowing climbers to focus on enjoyment and personal achievement.
Book Your Climbing Session Today
Whether you’re looking for a new family activity, a fun way to stay active, or an exciting introduction to climbing, the team at Rock Up is ready to welcome you.
Our indoor climbing arenas are designed to be safe, supportive, and inspiring spaces where everyone can challenge themselves and have fun doing it.
Book your climbing session today and experience the thrill for yourself.
Find your local Rock Up and take your first step up the wall.