Of course, your favorite sport—climbing, what else!—pushes you physically. But what if it was just as beneficial for your mental health? Let’s take a look at the positive effects of climbing on your mind.

Here and Now

What are you thinking about when you’re holding onto two crimps and need to make a committing move to an uncertain hold? What’s going through your mind when you’re about to launch into a big dyno to a jug that seems oh-so-far away? Probably nothing—or just the next move. And that’s one of the beauties of our favorite sport: it’s hard to think about work or school when you’re fully focused on a tiny foothold or a hold the size of a credit card. And these benefits apply to both outdoor and indoor climbing.

This is similar to what meditation practitioners aim for: being present in the moment. Climbing helps achieve this state, which can reduce stress and anxiety—effects that have even been backed by studies. Having fun while managing stress? Yes, please!

Cognitive Benefits

Another study highlights the cognitive benefits of climbing. And when you think about it, it makes perfect sense: every route or problem requires strategic planning, movement anticipation, and quick decision-making. This constant mental stimulation helps develop concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.

Emotional Regulation and Resilience

You know that last move on the slab, where you have to commit to stepping onto a sketchy foothold? And that little voice in your head telling you this might be a bit risky? Of course, in a gym like Bloc Shop, truly dangerous situations are extremely rare, but your brain is a strange little creature whispering all sorts of things.

The good news? Finding yourself in precarious positions teaches you to manage emotions and develop resilience. And after putting yourself in risky (yet controlled) situations, the small troubles of everyday life suddenly feel much less overwhelming.

A Few Tips to Boost Your “Zen”

• Lean on your tribe: Want to have a good session? Climb with a group of friends. I often hear groups cheering each other on at the gym in the evenings while I train, and honestly, I feel a bit envious. That energy? It’s almost like a performance-enhancing drug. The boost you get when your friends encourage you on a move no one else has stuck yet? Priceless. Bonus points for the social aspect.
• Ignore the grades: If you want to stay present in the moment or forget about your overbearing boss, stop worrying about grades and focus on movement. Friendly reminder: grades are subjective anyway.
• Do what you love: If you don’t want a mentally taxing climbing session, choose problems that match your style. You’ll have more fun—guaranteed.
• Go outside: The benefits of being in nature are well-documented. Being in nature and climbing? The perfect way to unplug.

Climbing is so much more than just a physical workout—it’s a holistic discipline that nurtures both body and mind. Go play on some boulders or routes; your mental (and physical) health will thank you!