Yes. the best place to start competitive climbing is at a climbing centre, generaly if your good you can progress to regional and even national competitions, which can lead on to representing your country at the World Series or Olympics.
Platypuses do not climb rocks. They are not adapted for rock climbing in any way.
Rock climbing is a sport. As with any sport you do not do anything else whilst engaged in that sport. Particularly so with extreme and dangerous sports.
No there isn't. The rock is layered and isn't well-suited for climbing. There is plenty of mountaineering in the backcountry, and some of that may include some rock climbing, but it is very difficult and dangerous. There are no established rock climbing routes.
I guess it is technically a sport because there are competitions. But if you ask any climber they would probably tell you that they consider it to be a hobby, not a sport - like hiking. Based on that, I would definitely say non-traditional.
Due to the dangerous nature of rock climbing there are several pieces of equipment that are essential. The first piece of equipment would be climbing shoes followed by a quality harness and rope. The type of climbing being done will dictate any other specialized pieces of gear.
There aren't really any natural rocks but there are some indoor climbing gyms. Here's a link of some of the climbing gyms in Florida. http://www.indoorclimbing.com/florida.html
I doubt there is any sport. Hope you aren't looking for that.
You need a harness to go rock climbing and if you fall off the wall this will prevent you from hurting yourself. It is also advisable to have a trained professional around to assist you.
Hiking, biking, back-packing, rock-climbing.
There are several companies and groups that offer climbing lessons in that area. Touchstone Climbing, Planet Granite, Outback Adventures, and the Bay Area Outdoor Adventure Club all offer such lessons.
When planning a half dome rock climbing expedition, it is important to consider the following safety measures: Proper training and experience in rock climbing techniques. Use of appropriate safety gear such as helmets, harnesses, and ropes. Checking weather conditions and avoiding climbing in adverse weather. Informing someone of your climbing plans and expected return time. Being aware of your physical limitations and not pushing yourself beyond them. Following established climbing routes and avoiding risky shortcuts. Regularly checking and maintaining your equipment for any signs of wear or damage.
If gravity didn't exist then climbing wouldn't exist because you would be weightless and it would hardly require any effort to climb the wall. I wouldn't say it helps. Gravity pushes you down when you climb. Even though it doesn't help it's necessary.