I’ve been seeing a lot of posts lately asking about overcoming a fear of heights for bouldering, and it’s something I struggled with initially too. It’s vital to remember that it’s a very common fear, and the perceived risk in bouldering can definitely trigger it.
My personal experience was that consistent, gradual exposure helped the most.Starting with very low climbs (maybe only a few feet off the ground) and focusing on controlled movements really built my confidence.I also found it helpful to consciously practice falling – not in a crazy way,but just intentionally dropping to the pads from a manageable height to get pleasant with the sensation. Knowing I could land safely made a big difference mentally.
Beyond that, focusing on the problem in front of you can distract from the height element. Concentrating on your grip,your foot placement,and the next move can definitely help keep your mind occupied and prevent it from fixating on the distance to the ground. Has anyone else found specific techniques particularly useful for managing this fear? I’m curious to hear what worked for others.