The training took place in Vienna on 10–11 June 2023, with arrival on 9 June and departure on 12 June. Its main venue was Kletterhalle Wien, a large climbing centre with indoor and outdoor walls, where participants could safely try routes of different difficulty levels and experience both climbing and bouldering for the first time.
For many of the women who joined the first CLIMBIT international training in Vienna, climbing was something completely new. Over one active weekend in June 2023, participants from Austria, Slovakia, and Croatia stepped out of their comfort zones, learned the basics of climbing and bouldering, and discovered how these sports can build confidence, motivation, and a sense of achievement. The training was designed mainly for women with little or no previous climbing experience and combined practical sessions with introductory workshops in a supportive international group.
The first day began with introductory sessions on climbing as a sport, including its history, important female climbers, basic terminology, equipment, knots, belaying, and safety procedures. After that, the group moved into the climbing hall, where participants practiced with the equipment, tried warm-up exercises, and then rotated between climbing and bouldering in small groups under the supervision of experienced instructors. The practical part was the heart of the training. For many participants, it was their first experience on a climbing wall, and while some started with a bit of fear or uncertainty, the supportive atmosphere of the group and the presence of four instructors helped them gradually feel more comfortable. The training was carefully adapted to beginners, with a strong focus on safety, learning by doing, and building trust between climbing partners.
The second day shifted a little in focus. After reflecting on the first day, participants learned more about climbing techniques, equipment, and how to create their own beginner training routines. They also joined a compensation training session outdoors, designed to strengthen the body in ways that support climbing safely and sustainably. The weekend ended with evaluation, certificates, and a shared lunch by the Danube.
For some, the weekend opened the door to a completely new sport. For others, it strengthened their interest in outdoor movement and gave them more confidence to continue being active in nature. In both cases, the Vienna training showed that climbing can be not only challenging, but also accessible, empowering, and deeply rewarding.
