I'm brand new to rock climbing (you could even call it pre-brand new). I've always loved to climb, and I recently met some people who inspired me to start climbing more seriously. However, I'm currently on a backpacking trip that will continue until next june. I'm stuck to a budget, and the space confines of my bag disallow the purchase of all the gear I would need. I'm hoping to start training for rock climbing while I travel so that when I get home, I'll have a leg up (which is a particularily distinct advantage in climbing, is it not? -- pun intended). I'm going to keep my eyes open for the book Training for Climbing, but in the mean time, are there any exercises anyone can suggest for me? After reading about the tendons in my fingers, I guess I shouldn't start dead-hanging from door frames? Are there other forearm exercises I should be doing? I'm hoping to buy some kind of small forearm strengthening gadget or the like, but there are a lot to choose from. Any advice?

thanks a bunch!
-Ben

dude u never heard of climbing chalk? ur a member of this website, why dont u take a look a the gear, n for your weight do more cardio and do not forget to breath while climbing, it makes it easier for people who have extra weight to carry to move around especially if your breathing rite more oxygene can get to your muscles.

I found it hard to breath while trying to read that as one sentence.

Thanks for some great advise! I have only been climbing for about a year but have became addicted. When I started there were a couple girls showing me a few things and I understand that they are more graceful and wonderful teachers. Something else that has helped me A LOT is what stymingersfink said, start asking questions. I have yet to meet a rude person at the wall not willing to help out.