Introduction: Understanding Climbing Technique

As far as I am concerned, climbing is the best sport in the world. I would rather climb than do almost anything else. First and foremost, climbing is an expression of every motivation of the human heart: passion, determination, the pure love of movement. Sure, I climb for the exercise and the social outlet, but first and foremost, I climb because I love to climb.

Unique among sports, climbing is accessible to nearly every demographic. No age, gender, body type, or race is excluded from climbing. One of my climbing friends is missing a limb, but he is a fantastically successful climber, sponsored by a major climbing equipment company. Another weighs well over three hundred pounds, but very regularly outclimbs climbers half his weight.

Climbing is also a versatile sport. It is a full body workout, and develops muscle tone, endurance, and flexibility instead of muscle mass. Climbing is extremely strenuous, and requires frequent rests; it is, therefore, a very social activity, since at least half of the climbers present will be resting at any given time. Any climber will tell you that the climbing community is exceptionally friendly. It builds self-image and self-confidence, and is tremendously calming, perfect for a depressurization after work or school.

I have never lived near the mountains, so I have always climbed mostly in a climbing gym. To find a gym near you, visit this site. After you have climbed a few months, however, I strongly encourage you to take a trip to climb outside. I promise, you'll love it.

Strength is a big part of climbing. As you climb, you will be amazed at how quickly your muscles build strength and endurance. But strength is not everything. I am five foot nine, and I have never hit 150lb (68kg). I have a light build, and it's hard to believe that I have any muscle on me at all. In spite of that, I am very successful in my climbing. And that is why this blog exists.

All strength is useless without technique. To climb well, one must learn a whole new way to move. This new paradigm is known as climbing technique. A weak climber with good technique will always outclimb a six foot body builder with poor technique. Always.

With this blog, I hope to cement my knowledge of technique, and perhaps to share it with others as well. If this blog has helped your climbing at all, or even inspired you to try out this wonderful activity, drop me a note; I'd love to hear from you.

Let's begin!

Dan
dipique at gmail dot com