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Hello there. I just registered and thought I should introduce myself. My name is Mike. I'm 28 yrs old and I'm a high school biology teacher. I live just south on Indy in Greenwood with my wife and 18 month old son. I've always loved being outdoors. I grew up camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, canoeing, ect. and now I want to take my love of outdoors to the next level. I have a couple of backpacking trips already planned, I just had one ruined by the severe t-storms we just had, but plan on tackling the Tecumseh trail next week and then a few weeks after that the Knobstone. I actually grew up in southern Indiana and hiked the Knobstone alot but have never done in it one shot. I also have a trip with some freinds to WV planned later in July to raft and rock climb.

I've always wanted to rock climb but for one reason or another never got around to trying it. How should someone new to climbing start? We have two climbing facilities close (Climbtime Indy and Hoosier Heights). That seemed like the obvious place to start. Are there any groups or members here that meet up with newbies and show them the ropes? I figured there has to be some climbers out there that do in order to expand the sport and show others what someone showed them. Are there any specific books you can recommend to beginners?

I'm really excited to get started and learn something new. I guess the reason I've never climbed is because I didnt know where to start so all your comments are appreciated in advance.

Thanks.

hire a guide after learning "theRopes" in the gym.

i recommend red river outdoors, they can teach you all you need to learn.

Just do what this guy does and you'll be on your way!

http://thegumbytwinkieexperiment.tripod.com/

Good luck on the Konbstone. That is one I want to do as well. Also look at the Sheltowee Trace.

Regarding climbing, certainly look to someone like Red River Outdoors to get started outside. If you want to get some idea of the movement and fitness required for beginning rock climbing, visit the closest gym. Once you are comfortable with the general idea (you may already be) head outdoors with a guide.

If you can wait until September, the UClimb event at the Red is a great intro to climbing outdoors. It's also a great deal if you need all of the gear.

www.mountaingear.com/uclimb

wow, 5 honest responses. We are getting weak.

I'll let the two of you climb my knobstone.

Is there snow up there? I'll bring the crampons (ouch!).