And climbing’s blend of movement, mindfulness, and mutual trust also deepens social connection. “Participants often describe the strong sense of trust built between climbing partners—particularly through the act of belaying, where one person secures the other’s safety,” explains Frühauf.
Chun sees that bond in action in her work. “Climbers learn to set goals, work hard at something, try new things, fail, and succeed,” she says. “And when all of this is done against the backdrop of other climbers supporting you, the activity becomes hugely rewarding.”
Outdoor climbing amplifies the proven mental and physical boosts of nature exposure, namely enhanced mood, reduced stress, and greater vitality. “Climbing allows you to interact with the landscape instead of just looking at it, providing all the advantages of being outside in the most tangible ways possible,” says Horodyskyj.
All told, it’s little wonder a 2025 study found that 73 percent of climbers reported better mental health after taking up the sport.
How to climb safely—and stay strong for the long haul
Like any demanding activity, climbing carries risks—but most injuries are preventable with smart habits. The most common injuries involve fingers, elbows, and shoulders, largely because “tendons adapt more slowly than muscles,” explains Rohleder. To avoid such issues, he advises climbers to “progress gradually and respect rest days.”
