Battling Gravity and Social Expectations:

We are seeing a growing number of women taking part in rock climbing, more women of all backgrounds, ages and abilities are present at crags and indoor climbing walls. But what experiences are they having?
In this talk, Emily will discuss her research ‘Everyday’ Women’s Experiences of Climbing (1970 – 2020), focusing particularly on the experience of motherhood and risk and how women see themselves represented in climbing media. She will also discuss the creation of Beta Magazine, a platform focused on the female experience of climbing but inclusive of all, designed to showcase the stories, voices, art, and creations of ‘everyday’ climbers. This talk will provide an insight into the complex experiences of women and mothers in climbing, women pushing back against societal expectations, and how women are sharing their experiences, creating and representing themselves in climbing.