In climbing, it’s not only about lacing up your shoes, it's also about grabbing hold – both physically and mentally. As a society, we are faced with a unique opportunity to promote quality in the development of climbing facilities that support children's motor, physical and mental development. But this requires a rethinking of how we design and use climbing walls, especially in schools and public institutions.
Offer children creative spaces - not flat walls
For many years, there has been a trend of trying to eliminate danger and risk from children's play. This means that many children only challenge themselves in virtual worlds where they can tolerate "falls" without consequences. This is where sports such as parkour and climbing stand out and truly have a developmental and untapped potential. These activities give children the opportunity to challenge their balance, physical and mental strength, as well as their sense of body and space, in a controlled setting.
The problem, however, is that most school climbing walls do not offer these activities at all. A flat wall with only jugs climbing holds is not an arena for climbing. Climbing is a three-dimensional discipline that requires variety and challenges such as slabs (sloping walls), overhangs and changing formations.
This is where children can truly unleash their potential and push their limits and become familiar with their motor skills.
Do it right – climbing requires quality
To achieve the many health and motor benefits of climbing, facilities must be built with care and expertise. This means:
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Good design: Climbing walls should include varied angles and challenges that train mobility, balance and dynamism.
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Correct equipment: Climbing shoes and chalk are necessary to give children the tactile sensation of grip and friction.
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Proper fall protection: Climbing involves falling – it is part of learning. Therefore, the fall protection must be specifically designed for climbing.
A call to schools and municipalities
If we are to make climbing accessible to children in Denmark, it requires that municipalities and schools make the right decisions from the start. Talk to experts, such as Gubbies Project or the Danish Climbing Association, before you invest. Visit a climbing club and experience the difference between properly designed facilities and the often inadequate solutions found in many schools today.
A challenge – but also an opportunity
Climbing has long been an adult sport in Denmark, but we are already seeing how teenagers and young people are drawn to the sport because of its unique combination of physical and mental development and, not least, an inclusive social community. The time has come to offer children the same opportunities.
So to those of you who are considering building climbing facilities: Do it right - it is worth the effort.
