Climbing offers physical, mental and social benefits for children and young people. If you are thinking of taking your child climbing, there are many reasons why this is one of the best sports you can choose. From increasing strength, endurance and flexibility to building confident and self esteem, climbing can benefit your child in many ways.
Climbing is a great form of exercise for children and adults alike. Studies have shown that exercise increases blood flow all over the body, including the brain, resulting in higher concentration levels, better exam results and more restful sleep.
Climbing is a great all round confidence builder. There’s not much that beats that feeling you get when you reach the top of a climbing wall and then lean back and let the harness take your weight, while you abseil back down to the ground. We see it all the time in the climbing arena, children arriving a little shy or apprehensive leaving with the biggest grin and walking a little taller, it’s one of the best parts of the job!
Child Mind Institute says “We know exercising is good for us. It helps us stay healthy, feel better and have fun. But for kids with ADHD, exercising can also be a big help when it comes to managing their symptoms. Studies show that as little as half an hour a day of exercise can help kids – especially younger ones – focus (and feel) better. Exercise can be anything kids enjoy. Running track, swimming, playing tag, rock climbing – you name it. As long as it gets their heartrate up. Letting kids take the lead is key.”
Our climbing challenges act as huge puzzles! Picking the right route to take on some of the more advanced walls takes time, practice, skill and focus. Puzzle solving is well known to help improve focus, and as it requires time and skill to complete it, creates a sense of accomplishment boosting self-esteem.
One huge takeaway from 2020 it’s that social interaction is good for mental health in both adults and children. And whether visiting a Clip ‘n Climb Oldham alone or as part of a group it’s definitely going to be a social affair. Everyone from reception, South Ridge Café through to our clippers are a friendly bunch. Our clippers take climbers through the safety briefing, fitting harnesses and making sure climbers are dressed appropriately so it’s safe for them to climb. They’ll also be in the climbing arena assisting and offering support, advice and encouragement as needed.
December 2026 – March 2027
Fresh Problems. Monthly Challenges. One Big League! Ready to put your climbing to the test this winter?
The Summit Up Winter Boulder League is back, bringing you fresh boulder problems, monthly challenges and the chance to battle your way up the leaderboard!
Each round brings a new set of problems to tackle, giving you the chance to test your strength, technique and problem-solving skills against other climbers.
Friday 27th – Sunday 29th November 2026
Three days. A completely fresh set of boulders. One big competition!
We're stripping our entire bouldering area and setting a brand-new range of competition problems to put your climbing to the test. Expect challenging moves, tricky sequences and plenty of opportunities to push your limits, rack up points and climb your way up the leaderboard!
WE'RE HIRING! JOIN THE SUMMIT UP TEAM! We're looking for enthusiastic and experienced Climbing Instructors / Receptionists to join our friendly team at Summit Up Climbing Centre in Oldham! If you're passionate about climbing, love working with people and enjoy helping climbers of all ages and abilities develop their skills, we'd love to hear from you!