Core Rock Climbing Techniques To Improve Your Game
I would like to take this opportunity to talk about core rock climbing techniques. Essential for any rock climber wanting to have a rounded game.
I couldn’t believe, when I first started climbing how experienced climbers seemed to shoot up routes that I could never dream of climbing, on impossibly small holds. I remember thinking they must have incredibly strong hands. It took me a long time to realise that strength was only half the story. The secret to their success was good technique.
Discover your body’s centre of gravity
To climb anything steep, you need to develop an understanding of your body’s centre of gravity. The closer your centre of gravity is to the wall, the easier it will be to hang on. If you’re hanging on with your left hand, turn your right shoulder and hip into the wall, you’ll feel immediately stronger (if you’re hanging from your right hand, turn in your left side). Use your legs as counterweights, if you’re stood on your left foot and you feel like you’re going to fall left, point out your right foot to equalise your body weight. This is called ‘flagging’.
Climb with your feet
Most climbing beginners climb almost entirely on their hands (especially those with strong arms and hands). Try to position your feet before moving your hands, your climbing will definitely improve. Focus on achieving a balanced position on which to you move up. You’ll be amazed how much you can use your feet, even on the most overhanging routes. If you’re struggling to hang on, push from your feet and force your hips up towards the wall. In most cases this will relieve the pressure on your fingers.
Practice climbing on straight arms
If there is weight on your arms and they are bent, the stress will be on your muscles. In a pretty short space of time they will get pumped up and you’ll be fatigued. Try instead to hang on your skeleton. If the holds are too low when you’re stood on a hold, bend your legs to allow you to keep those arms straight. Your legs are much stronger and less likely to become fatigued.
Don’t forget your breathing
Rock climbing involves situations where you’re under pressure (all climbers experience moments of fear). Many people hold their breath when they get stressed. This just makes matters worse. Focus on breathing deeply to control anxiety. Take deep breaths, and when you’re ready to move, exhale forcefully.
If ever you find a route getting the better of you, take a deep breath and focus on these core techniques. You will almost certainly feel better.
Gareth Hanson is an avid UK rock climber and blogger. For further rock climbing techniques, crags, routes and equipment reviews, visit his UK rock climbing blog. Don’t reprint this exact article. Instead, reprint a free unique content version of this same article.
