Rock Climbing Lingo
Auto-belay
A device that allows climbers to climb without a belay partner. The tether hooks to the harness and lets the climber down slowly if they fall or choose to descend.
Barndoor
When a climber’s body begins to swing outwards.
Belay
A type of climbing that uses two individuals connected by a rope to avoid injury when descending. One person climbs while the other stays on the ground. The person on the ground watches to see if the climber is going to descend and uses the rope system to control their descent.
Beta
Information about the climb that is helpful for completing the wall. For example, what techniques are best and when to use them.
Boulder
Climbing without rope. The height of the climb is usually lower than belays. Generally, a mat is placed below to soften the impact of a fall.
Campus
Doing a climb or part of a climb without using feet. This term also applies to workouts such as campus boards.
Crux
The hardest part of the climb.
Dynamic Movement
When a climber moves to the following holds using momentum. It involves small to large jumps.
Dyno
A jump, in any direction, to make it to the next hold.
Flash
A climber's first attempt at a climb.
Match
Placing both hands or both feet on the same hold.
Overhang
A wall that is angled much greater than 90 degrees (close to 180 degrees). For example, climbing on the ceiling of a cave.
Project
A climb that a climber attempts for an extended period of time. This means that the climb is too difficult for the climber to complete in one day but is likely possible to complete over time after numerous attempts.
Send
When a climber completes a climb.
Slab
A wall that has an angle less than 90 degrees. It looks similar to the right side of a slash \. This normally requires skills focusing on one’s balance and footwork.
Static Movement
When a climber moves to the following holds without using momentum.
Disclaimer: This website only provides tips for indoor rock climbing. Additionally, individuals must be responsible for their own health and safety.