For the first bouldering session all you need to know is that chalk helps your hands to grip the holds. Also, using too much chalk or the wrong kind can make a mess and be annoying to other climbers.
Choose the Right Type
There are three types of chalk that are commonly used by bouldering climbers. Loose chalk covers your hands and holds very quickly and produces a lot of dust. The chalk ball that most indoor bouldering gyms require to be kept in a chalk bag, will produce a steady amount of chalk. The Liquid chalk that you apply to your hands before climbing, produces a thin layer of chalk on your hands and lasts well, with little production of dust.
Apply It Properly
Cover your hands including your fingers in a thin layer of chalk. This layer should not be too thick as this can lead to you having to wipe your hands on your pants etc. regularly during your bouldering session.
Tap Off the Excess
Clap or tap your hands together a few times before starting a problem to remove any excess chalk. This is particularly important in an indoor climbing space as an enclosed space where there is a low airflow, keeping the airborne chalk to a minimum is important for air quality – guidance on airborne dust in indoor environments.
Re-Chalk During a Session
If you feel your hands becoming slick in between attempts then re-chalk but do not chalk up before every single move. This is a habit that is better to be avoided.
Set Up Your Chalk Bag
Tie the chalk bag around a hold close by, or put it on the ground near where you are climbing.
More on Bouldering can be found at https://www.270climbing.com/bouldering/.
A little chalk is a long way. As with everything else on a bouldering wall, it’s best to introduce the chalk to your training from the start in order to keep your own training and the wall itself in the best shape possible.