How Fit Do I Need to Be to Start Climbing? A No-Judgment Guide from Substation Brixton

If you’ve been thinking about giving climbing a go, but you’re worried you’re not “fit enough” let us stop you right there. 

At Substation Brixton, we welcome everybody—from gym lovers to sofa sitters, first-timers to lifelong athletes. You don’t need to be super strong, super flexible, or super experienced to start climbing. You just need to be curious and open to trying something new.

Climbing Is for All Levels

Climbing isn’t about pure strength or peak fitness. It’s about problem-solving, technique, and using your body in ways that might surprise you. That’s it. If you can climb a ladder, you can start bouldering.

What If I Have No Upper Body Strength?

Good news: most beginners don’t. Climbing builds strength as you go, especially in your hands, arms, shoulders, and core. 

In fact, relying on upper body strength can be a beginner's mistake. You’ll quickly learn to:

• Use your legs more than your arms (your glutes are much bigger than your biceps!)
• Shift your weight efficiently
• Rest between climbs and pace yourself

Strength comes naturally over time—you don’t need to earn it before you start climbing.

Climbing Builds Fitness (Without Feeling Like a Workout)

Here’s the best part: climbing is fun, social, and endlessly rewarding—so it doesn’t feel like exercise in the traditional sense. But make no mistake: it works your whole body. Regular climbing improves:

• Balance and coordination
• Functional strength
• Flexibility and mobility
• Mental focus and confidence

Still Not Sure Where to Start? We’ve Got You

If you're feeling unsure or intimidated, try one of our 30-minute inductions at Substation Brixton. One of our instructors will walk you through the basics—how to move, how to stay safe, and how to find climbs that suit your level.

There’s no pressure to perform, no need to compare, and no expectations—just encouragement, support, and a good time.

Everyone Starts Somewhere

At Substation, we’ve seen all kinds of people fall in love with climbing—office workers, parents, artists, students, gym avoiders, total beginners. You don’t need to be fit to start climbing. Climbing is how you get fit.

Join the Climb at Substation Brixton

Ready to give it a go? Grab some rental shoes, book a climb or induction, and come and see what your body is capable of. We’re here to support you from your first step on the wall to your first send.

Book Your First Climb

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