Introduction
Think you need a MoonBoard or tension setup to have a competitive climbing session? Not even close. Whether you’ve got a DIY wall in your basement or a small backyard setup, you can still bring out that fun, competitive edge—without standardized grids or LED lights.
These games and challenges are perfect for small walls, mixed-level climbers, and anyone who wants to inject a little friendly rivalry into their next session. Let’s make your home wall the scene of your next send-off.
1. Time Attack Trials ⏱️
How it works:
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Set a moderate problem (not too easy or too hard).
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Each climber gets one attempt to send it as fast as possible.
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Record times and try again after a rest for a rematch.
Why it’s awesome:
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Builds efficiency under pressure.
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Great for kids and adults alike.
2. Add-On Duel ⚔️
How it works:
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Player 1 sets the first move.
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Player 2 repeats and adds one move.
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Keep alternating until someone falls or forgets the sequence.
Why it’s awesome:
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Encourages creativity and memory.
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Easy to scale for beginners or pros.
🔗 Want a wider variety of grips for challenges? Check out climbing hold packages to keep your wall interesting.
3. The Points Game 🎯
How it works:
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Assign points to holds based on difficulty or location.
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Jugs = 1 pt
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Slopers = 2 pts
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Crimps = 3 pts
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Each climber builds a route for the other using any holds.
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Higher score = winner, but you only earn points if you complete it clean.
Why it’s awesome:
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Strategic, fun, and totally custom.
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Teaches hold selection and problem setting.
4. Elimination Face-Off 💥
How it works:
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Start with a short route.
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Each time someone sends it, remove one hold.
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Alternate turns until the route is impossible or someone can’t send it.
Why it’s awesome:
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Great for two climbers of similar ability.
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Adds tactical thinking to basic problems.
5. Hold Draft 🧩
How it works:
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Set up a “draft” of available holds (5–10 total).
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Each player takes turns choosing holds to create a problem for the other.
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Try to build something that challenges your opponent—but that you could still send too!
Why it’s awesome:
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Competitive and creative.
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Works with any hold selection or wall layout.
🔗 Use our modular wall design instructions to reconfigure your wall for game variety.
6. The Mystery Route Challenge ❓
How it works:
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One climber sets a route without showing the other.
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Tape is removed or hidden.
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The second climber must attempt to figure out the route mid-climb.
Why it’s awesome:
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Simulates onsight-style climbing.
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Trains beta-reading and adaptability.
7. The Flash Race 🏁
How it works:
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Two climbers attempt to flash the same route.
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Whoever climbs higher on their first attempt wins.
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If both send, fastest time wins.
Why it’s awesome:
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Super fun with equal difficulty levels.
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Builds mental focus and execution.
Conclusion
You don’t need a standardized training board to spark competition. These creative games bring strategy, skill, and fun to any home wall—no MoonBoard required. Whether you’re climbing with your kids, your roommates, or just want to beat your own score, these ideas turn your setup into a full-blown climbing arena.
Spice up your sessions with fresh grips using climbing hold packages, and build a layout that fits your challenge style using modular wall design instructions. Let the home comps begin! 🏆