Beginner looking for advice

Question
Hi Jeff
I am new to the rock climbing sport but am very excited about it.
My question is about advice to a new climber.
I am a little long in the tooth to be starting a new hobby but I cannot continue with my old one of scuba diving.
I s there any advice about fitness and equiptment that you could pass on?
I am looking to make this a lifelong hobby and involve my children as much as possible.
They are already in love with the sport and I want to encourage them as much as possible, and what better way than to be up there with them ?
I am also looking to install a training board in my home, so if you have any advice on which one/ones to get that would be great.
Thank you.

Answer
Robert,
Congratulations on discovering climbing. I have enjoyed climbing for 30 years. (I'm 45 now)  I have climbed through many generations and many climbing partners and am now climbing with my kids.

Climbing is rarely about actual strength. Of course strenth helps but the better and more experienced you get you'll find that balance and technique are FAR more inportant. Climbing well does not always mean getting to the top. For me climbing is about being in control, moving decisivly and fluidly up the rock and not thrashing and scrambling.

I would work on balance and overall strength and not on building large muscle groups. Build your heart rate and work on finger strenth.

You don't mention where you live or if you are interested in indoor or outdoor climbing.  Your location and weather in your area dictate how much outside climbing you can do.

I prefer and actually only climb outdoors and go to a regular gym and not a climbing gym. (the indoor climbing scene is not one I enjoy)

Good luck

Jeff