What seems to be a human instinct, developed into a sport known worldwide. Rock climbing emerged from the simple form of climbing, on a hill, mountain, or an artificial wall. As climbing challenges new terrains, rock climbing attributes its history to mountaineering. But unlike mountaineering, rock climbing history is focused on conquering steep rocks and cliffs.

There is a thin line differentiating rock climbing from mountaineering. Rock climbing was used as a preparatory training for climbing expeditions of mountaineers. In 1920s, rock climbing became known in the United States as a prerequisite training to mountain climbing. It was not until the 1950s that rock climbing made it in history as a sport of its own. As more people got their interests in rock climbing, developments have shaped rock climbing to how it is experienced in modern times. Grading systems were developed to measure the difficulty of a climb and the ability of the climber to challenge the rocky terrain. Various countries have adopted the sport, and had developed their own grading system. In the same way rock climbing developed, different climbing styles emerged. Climbing styles were developed to be able to classify rock climbing based on terrain, use of ropes, gears and equipments, indoor or outdoor, and other specific details in rock climbing depending on the ability of the climber and the level of challenge it involves.

Rock climbing is a sport which requires not just physical fitness, but also a prepared mindset. Recent improvements in the sport entail shorter climbs, but more difficult terrains. Rock climbing depends on personal preference and the level of challenge one intends to experience. Rock climbing is a dangerous sport, and as history shaped rock climbing, more safety and precautionary measures were taken as climbers opted for harder and more challenging climbs. Safety is at all times a priority in rock climbing. Specific techniques and gear were also developed to meet the different demands of rock climbing.

Rock climbing history has emerged from mountaineering. However, as
years passed and focused on climbing steep rocks and cliffs, rock climbing emerged as a sport in its own right. More and more people are getting drawn by conquering rocky terrains, whether it is indoor or outdoor. It has developed its own standards, climbing styles and techniques, gears and equipments, to further improve and meet the demands of rock climbing.