Although rock climbing is practiced by both genders and almost all ages, it is a sport that requires a great deal of physical strength. Upper body strength is extremely important. Most people who become involved in the sport soon realize that they must be in excellent shape to really begin to enjoy it. This leads to an increase in physical conditioning that is most often beneficial to the participants overall health.

The sport also requires a great deal of mental self-discipline. Many adherents of rock climbing point to this as one of the biggest benefits. It demands total body awareness. They must be aware of exactly where their feet and hands are located and every movement must be careful, slow, and deliberate.