Adrenaline rush

Rock climbing - Rocks give a very strong sense of physicality, of mind against matter. The ultimate thrill, climbers say, is going headlong into a challenge, rather than backing away, facing up to your fears of the void. 4 stars

Ice climbing - With icicles on your rope (in extreme climbs) and a constant fight with an alien environment, there's an even greater high. Climbers talk of a state of inner peace and almost meditative ecstasy. 5 stars

Cardio

Rock climbing - Movement against gravity gets the heart working, but climbing over awkward terrain - such as technical boulder-climbing - is unpredictable and spasmodic, working the muscles harder than the heart. 3 stars

Ice climbing - Good technique often involves getting into a regular rhythm, so you move at a steady pace upwards - this, combined with the difficult nature of the surface, means your heart will work hard. 5stars

Safety

Rock climbing - Falls do happen, but they are rare - especially if you rely on teamwork, good ropes and sound equipment. Overuse injuries to hands, wrists and elbows, as well as strains, are more common. 4 stars

Ice climbing - With the added elements of cold and ice, there are more risks, such as avalanches and sudden blowouts - lumps of ice "exploding" on the slope - caused by too much lingering on a shelf of fragile ice. 3 stars

Affordability

Rock climbing - On a sunny day you can get by with plimsolls, shorts, a T-shirt, a helmet and a light pack with water and a few essentials. In the Scottish mountains, take survival gear - even in summer. 4 stars

Ice climbing - One of the big challenges is the amount of equipment required - especially in bad weather. Basics include crampons, two ice axes, a base layer and down jacket, as well as a bivvy bag and head torch. 1 star

Workout

Rock climbing - Climbers need to be lithe, almost feline at times - agility matters more than strength. Climbing exercises the forearms, calves and fingers and makes the upper back solid and well balanced. 4 stars

Ice climbing - An almost unrivalled exercise in providing a complete workout, pushing every part of your body. Ice is harder, so expect even firmer, more defined muscles, less fat and better contours. 5 stars