Essential Rock Climbing Improvement Techniques
For great all round rock climbing ability it’s essential to have a good grasp of core techniques. It’s those core rock climbing techniques that I’m going to focus on with this article
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.
Learn where your centre of gravity lies
Once you start climbing steeper routes, you will learn how important finding your centre of gravity is. If you can get that centre of gravity closer to the wall, holding on becomes much easier. If you’re hanging on with one hand, turn the opposite shoulder and hip into the wall, for a stronger grip. Use your legs as counterweights. If you’re stood on one foot and you feel unbalanced, point the other foot in the opposite direction you feel you feel you might fall. This technique 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
Hanging your weight on bent arms will stress your arm muscles. Your arms will pump and you’ll struggle to hold on. Instead, try hanging on your skeleton. If you find yourself stood on a hold that places the hand holds too low to keep your arm straight, bend your legs. Your leg muscles are strong much stronger than your arms and less likely to become fatigued.
Don’t forget to breathe
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 enthusiastic climber. Check out his blog for information on rock climbing techniques, including gear reviews, crags and climbs: rockclimbinguk.com Get a totally unique version of this article from our article submission service
