FAQ's

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Bouldering FAQ's

Do I need an induction?

If you’ve never climbed before you'll need to book onto an induction session. Inductions are a great way to learn the essentials of climbing, including safety rules, etiquette and basic footwork techniques. All equipment will be provided for your session. There is a limited capacity per session, so booking is essential.

If you have climbed before and are able to answer the basic safety questions, you will not need an induction.

I am coming with experienced friends, do I need an induction?

If you plan on climbing with people who have climbed before, they are able to supervise you on a 1:2 ratio providing they answer the safety questions correctly.

Is it suitable for children?

The minimum age to use the auto-belay or rope climbing facilities is 18. However, 16-17 year olds can boulder independently provided they have undertake a Youth Assessment with a senior member of the climbing team.

What is a Youth Assessment?

A Youth Assessment is a private bouldering induction for 16-17 year old climbers and the parent/guardian of the climber. A Youth Assessment specifically focuses on the safety needed for themselves and others whilst bouldering, and the instructor may want to go into discussion of the hazards and risks that are inherent to the climbing facilities and centre layout. We will need an additional waiver from the parent/guardian with their details, and a Youth waiver completed by the parent/guardian with Youth's details. The parent/guardian does not need to climb but must be present for the bouldering safety brief. All rental equipment is provided. The Youth Assessment is free of charge and is liaised through the Climbing Wall Supervisor.

Do I need to be fit and strong?

Not really. Climbing often isn’t as strenuous as it might look. A few simple techniques and selecting easier angled climbs can mean that it’s much more about balance and a little flexibility than needing lots of upper body strength. Come and have a go; you might be surprised!

What should I wear?

Ideally, lightweight sportswear and warmer layers such as a fleece, hoody, legging or trousers are recommended during the winter months.

Due to the nature of the mezzanine and sports hall layout, the bouldering wall can get a little hotter during the summer months. It is recommended to wear breathable and cooler attire when bouldering during the warmest months of the year.

It is highly recommended to wear socks whilst hiring the rental shoes provided. Barefoot climbing is never acceptable.

Ideal footwear is the specific climbing shoes available to hire from The Climbing reception if you don’t have your own (they are free of charge).

Long hair should be tied back, and necklaces, long earrings, rings, watches etc., should be removed to avoid the risk of getting caught and causing injury. Phones, wallets and other valuables should be removed from pockets and stored the lockers or cubby holes provided.

Please remember that you are fully responsible for your belongings while on the premises.

Is my session transferable or refundable if I cannot make the session?

Inductions are included with entry fee or membership. Walks-in inductions are possible, but please note there is no guarantee space will be available as the inductions are limited to 1:6, and priority must be given to those who booked in advance. If you are unable to attend your induction, we can reschedule free of charge. Bouldering inductions are 15-30mins and run throughout the week and on the weekend. This can be bookable over the phone, online or in person at the main reception. Auto-belay inductions are available to those who have undertaken a bouldering induction at Sport Liverpool and wish to broaden their climbing experience.

You will only need to undergo an induction once. After this, you are considered competent in bouldering or auto-belay.

I am competent in bouldering, does this mean I’m competent in climbing with ropes?

No. There is a completely different set of skills and knowledge needed for rope climbing. If you are competent in climbing, you will be asked to prove your competency through a quick and easy proficiency test. This will be done with a member of the senior climbing team at their discretion. Failing to demonstrate safe belaying or failure to identify the required knots and gear may result in a declined entrance to the climbing wall (you will still be able to boulder provided you have answered the bouldering safety questions correctly).

How high is the bouldering wall?

The wall bouldering wall is only 4.5m at its highest point, with our climbing wall reaching a peak of 7.5m. But remember, while your hands might be at the top, your feet are unlikely to be more than 3m off the ground. There are safety crash mats throughout and we will teach you to land safely to minimise the risk of injury during the induction sessions.