[andai]

I picked up bouldering a few weeks ago and I love it! I wish I'd learned about it sooner. I've never experienced such a satisfying muscle ache before.

[mrfusion]

Seems really fun! Couple reservations I have. Do you have to wear a harness? Are people going to be telling me what to do? Isn’t it expensive?

[dangerlibrary]

1. No, not for bouldering, though it helps to have climbing shoes.

2. It's generally considered impolite to give advice on how to climb something, unless the person asks.

3. Most bouldering/climbing gyms have small workout areas in addition to the walls, and memberships that aren't a lot more expensive than a regular gym.

[mrfusion]

Thanks! I’ll check it out. So you’re saying I can just show up and boulder or are there lines? Or appointments?

[nether]

You can just show up any time the gym is open. There are bouldering walls, just find a problem (what bouldering "routes" are called) that no one is on and go for it. Gym bouldering is usually pretty social, most people will be happy to answer any questions you have about anything, easier problems to try or techniques, etc.