l am going wall climbing today and it has been a VERY long time since l have done this(since middle school).I am 26 now and worried about how in shape l am for this type of thing... Does anyone have any tips or tricks to help me to not look like a complete jackass in front of a new group of friends?? lol. Thanks for the help!

These are the basics to save your arms:

1. Use your legs to support your weight as much as possible
2. Keep your weight directly over your feet
3. Use your hands mostly for balance, they are not as strong as your legs
4. When moving up, take small steps (large ones require more arm strength)
5. Keep your body close to the wall (on vertical walls), leaning back works your arms a lot more

Good Luck

Are these new friends climbers? If so, do not spout off about how good you are before getting on the wall. Let them know it is been a long time. Most climbers are very nice and supportive, especially of newcomers wanting to get into the sport.

A previous answerer had some very good technical advice - follow it!

Most of all, have fun!

ps-do not wear tight jeans, you want loose pants or even shorts to allow you freedom of movement.

you have done this since middle school but tell me one thing, can you do wall climbing 3-4times? If you can done this many times you will get experienced in wall climbing.