strength needed?

Question
Dear Mr. Bridgeland,
  I want to start climbing.  I am not very physically fit.  I am interested in taking some lessons at our local climbing gym, but am concerned about my physically ability.  All those who climb look so fit.  What kind of shape do i need to be in and how much effort does it take? I am willing but need to know.  
     thank you,
          Cranney

Answer
strength comes with experience.  all the people in the gym may have been there for a while.  on beginning routes, it is important to use your legs more than your arms, using your arms to balance and your legs to hold you up.  most beginers tend to use only their arms doing pull-ups the whole way.  they quickly learn that legs are just as critical.  my recomendation is to go and try.  there you will get a feel if one this is something that you want to continue to persue, and two what you need to work on to improve.  i'm not going to lie to you, climbing can be very physically demanding, but start small, there is no shame in it, just go and have fun and remember that most of the people there were probably thinking the same things as you when they first began.  i've seen very large men climb, but they were there to have a good time, not to be the best climbers.  hope that helps, and thanks for the question,

nick