Bouldering is full of jargon – every hold, grip, move has a name.  At Indirock we want to make climbing accessible to everyone. Whether you’re a complete beginning, a dabbler or a pro, we’re busting the jargon and making it easier for you to get climbing.

First up, A is for…

ARETE

An Arete is an outward pointing bit of rock or wall; a ridge or rib. It’s formed by the meeting of two planes. Not to be confused with a corner. You can find arétes around Indirock by finding the end of the wall, such as in doorways!

ARM BAR

An Arm Bar is a crack climbing technique in which an arm is inserted deep into the crack and secured by pressing the palm of the hand against one wall and the tricep/shoulder against the other. Similar to “Chicken wing” You’ll rarely find these indoors, but keep your eyes peeled for arm bar opportunities outside!

APE INDEX

The Ape Index is basically the difference between your arm span and height. Some people have a plus ape index, meaning their total arms span is longer than their height, others have no difference, and some have a negative ape index. Although a positive ape index is helpful, it’s not the be-all and end-all of climbing! Identifying where our strengths lie helps us to progress in our bouldering journey.

Next in our jargon busting series is words beginning with B.