Getting started climbing outdoors - an interview with Anna Hornakova

Everyone has to start somewhere, and one of the best things about outdoor sports is that they can be enjoyed by anyone of any age, with many people starting out in adulthood. 

It can be really hard to know how to actually get stuck in to outdoor climbing. You need lots of equipment, a whole host of skills, and suitable climbing partners to go out with. 

That journey looks different for everyone, and in this interview I’ve asked Anna all about her climbing so far and what she would recommend to others starting out. 

Anna’s climbing beginnings were a little stop-start; typical British weather and the time impositions of being a young mother stymied her first attempts to get into the sport, but she persevered (a theme throughout her climbing) and now loves the challenge and sense of achievement unique to climbing.  

The 'au cheval' belay on the classic route Little Chamonix VDiff, Shepherds Crag, Borrowdale

Why did you start climbing and what do you like about it?

Well, I started several times… the first attempt was in my twenties, but that was a really unsuccessful start, both outdoor sessions were cancelled due to weather. Next attempt was through an excellent indoor climbing course run by Cumbria County Council, but being a young mum with no family around, it was very difficult for me to take it further at that stage. The third attempt at climbing was when my daughter Olivia was a teenager. A different challenge, here… I was petrified to belay my own daughter. And when she belayed me, it occurred to her to leave me half way down hanging on the rope, which was great fun (for her). And finally, once Olivia went to university I found I had the time, some money, and a commitment to overcome the obstacles (and regret, too, for not persevering earlier on with my daughter, and advising her to take up yoga classes instead for her Duke of Edinburgh award).

What have been your favourite outdoor climbing experiences so far? 

Firstly, climbing on Upper Shepherds crag in Borrowdale. This was a day when I realised I actually want to climb regularly. The rock was far too easy for me and I had no difficulty going up, which meant I felt very relaxed and enjoyed the climbs. It was also a day with glorious sunshine, lovely views and a picnic outdoor

My second favourite experience was a route called Via Media on Castle Rock. Here, the experience was different. I got stuck half way up (sorry Pippa, for belaying me at the top for such a long time!). But when I eventually managed to move and get to the top, the sense of achievement was enormous!

Fully immersed in the moment!

There's a lot to learn when getting in to rock climbing. How have you built up your skills, and what has helped you progress and get going?

I attended both indoor and outdoor climbing courses which built up my skills and confidence. I also met other people to climb with through these courses, and have been a 'mock client' for some people training for their climbing instructor qualifications. There have been some women's courses and socials at the climbing wall in Keswick which has helped, and some of the courses Esther has run have been part funded through the Outdoor Partnership to help more women access outdoor sport in West Cumbria.

My skills have progressed quite rapidly and I was very fortunate that on one of those workshops I got to know my climbing partner, Dai. It just happened that we were both available to climb on the same day, had the same level of experience, and basically the same aims.

We now meet once a week at a climbing wall and car share to save some costs. The workshops have given me enough ideas on what to focus on when climbing, so me and Dai can practice independently. On one occasion we both felt we would benefit from some advice, so we shared the cost for a private climbing session. We also look for opportunities to get outdoors. Dai has a friend who was willing to take us climbing outdoors, and currently we are planning to learn together how to set up the ropes at an easy venue so that we can do some single pitch climbs independently. 

'That' move on Little Chamonx, Shepherds Crag

What would you recommend to others that are similar to you, and are wanting to become independent climbers?

Perseverance! I think it is harder to get into climbing than some other activities, especially if you don’t already have a friend with climbing experience. But it is not impossible. Perseverance is also important as there might be many “failures” on the way, such as not getting quite to the top (yet…). And remember to climb, first of all, for the enjoyment!

Thanks Anna!

There's no 'one way' to get in to outdoor climbing.

I would really recommend spending some time with an instructor though, whether that's 1:1, or as part of group workshops or multi-day courses. It will really fast track your development, help you meet others, and give you solid safety skills and confidence.

There are also some subsidised or lower cost options out there to help people on a budget...ask around and don't be afraid to go up to someone at your local wall or climbing shop!

And lastly, as Anna says, persevere! As soon as you have met a few other friendly climbers and learnt a few skills....you'll be surprised how much you can achieve.