Ian Waller and his family enjoy a visit to The Mothership bouldering centre for an afternoon’s problem solving
It was time for a family treat, something that we could do together and a chance to try a new activity. So when my middle one suggested bouldering, we headed off to The Mothership in near Barton Hill, just off the end of the M32.
Bouldering is a bit like indoor climbing but on artificial rock formations and without ropes or harnesses. The idea is follow route of coloured hand and foot holds, and to work out the best way to the top. Each route – or problem – is colour coded, so for total beginners you stick to the green routes, while for more experts boulderers, the pink and yellow will prove way more challenging.
The welcome at The Mothership, part of The Climbing Academy group of bouldering centres, was just excellent, incredibly friendly and really encouraging. We were booked in for an hour, including the help of John the ever positive coach, whose job it was to make sure we make the most of our time, learn a few techniques and appreciate the rules. So kitted out with climbing shoes supplied by the centre, we were off.
First off was a boulder up a beginner’s green route, with the children up to the top in no time and even old man dad handling the ascent with ease. The big thing to bear in mind here is that none of the climbs are particularly high and the ground is very padded, so if you do take a tumble or have to jump off, you shouldn’t hurt yourself. We also soon learned the logic of rule number one which states don’t stand too close to or below other climbers, just to make sure you don’t end up being the one cushioning their decent!
With John showing us the basic techniques required and helping us work out the best routes for each climb, we were soon trying more challenging problems. You certainly need a basic level of fitness to have a go at bouldering, but it’s also very much about standing back and working at the best route before starting each route.
Around us, the other boulderers ranged in age from around eight or nine to right old oldies like me. The whole atmosphere was very easy going and very relaxing – yes, it’s physically tiring but also a great way to take a break from all of those challenges of everyday life.
While we were booked in for a teaching one hour session, the usual sessions last for several hours each (with different rates for peak and off-peak), meaning that you can really take your time, try out a couple of problems and then perhaps take a break in the on-site cafe, before having another go.
So did we enjoy it? Hugely – it really was great fun with all three children having an excellent time and my older son asking about getting a membership for his birthday (along with a mountain bike, a snake, a trip to Alton Towers and a motorbike!).
Our advice – go on, give it a go. Yes, it is hard work all of us suffering from stiff forearms a couple of days after our visit. But we will be along again soon, either back to the Mothership or the other Bristol location at the Church in St Werburgh’s. Apparently there’s also a new centre due to open up in Chippenham next year.