The local rock-climbing class helping over 40s climb through life

Posted on 7 February, 2025

This isn’t just for the young and daring – a new rock-climbing class is helping people over 40 literally scale new heights.

Run by local Ainslie MacGibbon in partnership with the rock-climbing gym Mountain Strong, the Masters Social Club Come & Try Day is designed for locals who have always wanted to give bouldering a try and don’t know where to start.

Offering a friendly introduction to the sport and the opportunity to connect with over people 40 and over who like to climb, the idea came from Ainslie’s own passion for the sport and her journey, which has spanned decades.

Starting to boulder in her mid-forties, she explains that her association with bouldering goes back almost 20 years.

“When my son was young, I was tired of stopping him clambering over things when we were in a park or out in the bush by yelling out, he was ‘too high’ or he ‘might fall’,” she shares.

“So instead, I took him to an indoor climbing gym. I remember the first time he looked down at me with a mix of fear and apprehension, I think hoping I’d tell him to come down.  I didn’t, and he ended up loving it.”

That choice not only allowed her son to discover a passion but also set the stage for her own climbing adventure. Years later, the roles reversed when her son encouraged her to try bouldering – a form of climbing on shorter walls without harnesses or ropes – bringing their shared love of the sport full circle.

And now, she wants to help other over 40s scale new heights.

Starting her own climbing class to change the misconception that bouldering is only for the ‘young and buff’, Ainslie is working with Mountain Strong to hold the Come and Try Day on Tuesday 11 February so those interested can try it for themselves in a safe and friendly environment.

No equipment, prior experience, minimum fitness level, or anything else is required – just a willingness to have a go.

“I understand that it might feel intimidating, or like it’s a sport that you’re not invited to unless you have previous experience or a way in, but you really don’t need anything to start bouldering, not even equipment,” says Ainslie.

“I hear people say that they are too old, or not fit enough, or don’t have the upper body strength – none of these matters.  And to be honest, I feel like women may feel even more constrained. I’ve observed many birthday parties in climbing gyms over the years and often the dads will jump on the wall and give it a go, but very rarely will the mums, me included.”

Wanting to share her passion with other people over the age of 40 and show them that there is opportunity to be involved, she says there are endless reasons someone should consider starting this non-traditional sport at any age.

“There are so many podcasts and books around on health and longevity right now, all with a similar message about how strength training for strong bones and building muscle is so important as we age, as is flexibility.  Climbing ticks all these boxes,” Ainslie explains.

“I was so focused on wanting to try a harder climb at each session I didn’t even notice how my body was changing…For me it doesn’t feel like exercise in the same way going to the gym or running does.”

“When you are on a climb there is only space in your head to think about getting to the next move, there is no room for work, family, or money concerns in that moment.

“And the sense of achievement when you finish a climb you didn’t think you could do is amazing. This may seem trivial, but at a time in your life when doubt can chip away at your worth as a parent, or partner, or an employee, these are pretty invaluable boosts.”

Another upside? It’s an activity that can go to alone, meaning you don’t need to organise other people or schedules. But with that in mind, Ainslie says the climbing community has a remarkably welcoming culture that transcends age, fitness level, and background.

“There is a ready-made social network in the climbing community – you can opt-in as much or as little as you like…You’re only competing with yourself.”

Looking ahead to 2025, Ainslie is enthusiastic about recommending bouldering for those contemplating a new physical pursuit. And with hopes to get more people involved, she won’t be slowing down anytime soon.

“If you feel like doing something different in 2025, climbing is really worth considering,” she says.

“And if you’re hovering somewhere near, in or around middle-age, it’s a perfect time to start, none of the excuses in your head stack up.  Last week one of the other regulars was working his way through the new set of climbs on the wall – he is 84.  I just hope that will be me.”

Keen to see if bouldering will rock your world? There’s no booking required, just join in on the day, or email Duncan at info@mountainstrongcbr.com.