COVID-19

How Should the Global Climbing Community Respond?

By Nicki Simon | April 3, 2020

The world is experiencing an unprecedented outbreak in our modern era: COVID-19. All groups of people have been affected, and as climbers we feel these limitations as well. During this confusing time, it can be difficult to know how to properly respond to the situation. The collective actions of our community can have a real and lasting positive impact if we stay up to date on this novel coronavirus, limit our outdoor play, and support local communities. 

For starters, the most crucial thing to do for climbers and non-climbers alike is to stay informed. According to the World Health Organization, COVID-19 is a new virus that came to the public’s attention in December 2019. A majority of people who catch this virus will only experience mild to moderate respiratory illness with no special treatment needed. However, “older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.” For some patients, this illness will cause respiratory distress and require mechanical ventilation. Unfortunately, as cases turn severe, COVID-19 patients end up spending longer than average in the intensive care unit. This is why we are hearing of a shortage of ventilators and overwhelmed medical staff. Many have seen the chart about how to flatten the curve. Early studies show that those who are infected but asymptomatic are still very contagious. By practicing social distancing, we can reduce the number of cases and the burden on our medical system. Continue to update yourself with reliable and current resources, most notably the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as information on new developments in your local area.

While many of us now have some extra time on our hands, it may seem like a great opportunity to take a trip or go out climbing. Unfortunately, now is not the time for either of those. Right now, it is important for the climbing community to resist the urge to head to popular crags or visit rural areas.  We have a responsibility to reduce our likelihood of spreading the disease to vulnerable communities like Bishop, California. This means considering any unintentional impacts we could be having and not skirting the rules by sneaking into closed areas. As climbers, many of us feel healthy, strong, and invincible. However, it is vital for us all to realize how each of our actions, no matter how insignificant they may seem, can create a ripple effect among fellow climbers at the crag as well as local communities. The rock isn’t going anywhere, and if Tommy Caldwell can take a break from climbing, so can you!

This does not mean you need to stay cooped up in your house all day; you can still go outside. Just make sure you are doing so in a responsible way, as outlined by the American Alpine Club:

The situation is constantly changing. Keep yourself up-to-date with recommendations and resources from Access Fund and your local climbing organization.

To build on the idea of impact in our communities, we also have an opportunity right now to create positive ripples. Local  nonprofits and businesses are hurting, and again, it is important for the climbing community to stand up and do our part to help. A great way to support local businesses is to buy gift cards. Think of it as credit toward something you would probably buy in the future anyway, as well as an investment in the company's future. In addition, many gyms around the country are offering members the chance to continue supporting employees while they are closed. Keegan Dimick, the site manager of Mesa Rim Climbing and Fitness in Reno, NV stated “we have three ways our customers can help opt in: continue paying your monthly dues (or any amount you choose), purchase a 10 punch card that can be used once we reopen, or purchase a prepaid membership that can be used once we reopen. All proceeds from these sales are going directly to paying employee salaries, employee benefits, basic utilities, and ensuring our vendors are paid.” 

Besides reaching out to local gyms and businesses to find out how you can contribute, you can also sign this petition to have climbing gyms included in the federal relief stimulus package, and have 30% of your purchase from Eldorado Climbing Walls donated to a gym of your choice. Gyms are a staple in our communities, and it is up to us to make sure they survive this. 

Now is also a great time to support your local climbing organization, as well as national organizations like the American Alpine Club and Access Fund (or the equivalent in your country). Become a member if you’re not already one. Join their volunteer lists so that you can support their stewardship and advocacy initiatives. Climbing organizations will face major challenges managing the influx of climbers when crags eventually reopen. In the midst of this crisis, let’s stand together, show up for our community, and support the organizations working on our behalf. 

Check out our Instagram for some ideas to keep you busy at home. Happy isolation!