If you think that rock climbing is easy and you can do it any time then you are mistaken! Climbing is not about strength and leg power, it requires a different mindset, which makes it more challenging. However, there are ways through which you can become a better climber! Here is a list of 5 ways through which you can improve your climbing technique.

Improving Climbing Technique Tip # 1 – Hit The Gym!

We have often discussed the benefits of going to the gym, one of the benefits is that it can help you become a better climber. When you hit the gym, try and focus on exercise that strengthens your core, abs and lower back. You can practice exercises such as crunches, leg lifts, leg raises and plank. You can even do 2 or 3 sets of pull-ups and push-ups to improve your strength.

Pull-ups can be an excellent form of exercise which would train you for the actual climbing; hence, you should focus more on pull-ups. You can also include some cardio exercises in your training such as Zumba or Running since they would help in improving your stamina, allowing you to train for a longer period of time. Best of all, you can run for about half an hour, 3 times a week.

Improving Climbing Technique Tip # 2 – Work On Your Technique

Rather than lifting heavy weights and trying to increase your muscle strength, you should rather work on improving and practicing your climbing technique. There are certain things that you should master such as how to use drop knees, backsteps and heel hooks. All these things will help you climb better. You should also start working on your footwork, how to climb up and how to use your feet properly. You should also learn how to move your feet as quietly as possible and learn how to get a firm hold on the footholds. All these things will make you a better climber.

Improving Climbing Technique Tip # 3 - Resting

It is common to get overly ecstatic after completing a climb successfully; and hence, forgetting to rest. This is where most of us make a terrible mistake! Not resting increases the risk of suffering from injuries since the body needs some time to recover and repair any damaged tissues. So try to take a break and rest! The rule should be resting twice as much time as you spend climbing, for example if you spend 5 minutes climbing then rest for about 10 minutes.

Improving Climbing Technique Tip # 4 – Getting The Right Shoes

 Good climbing shoes will allow you to place your feet on holds more easily and would also allow you to climb better. You can get a decent pair of shoes for around $60-70. Make sure that the shoes have proper grips; they should not be too slippery otherwise you won’t be able to climb properly.  

Improving Climbing Technique Tip # 5 – Research

The last and perhaps one of the most important tips is research. Internet has made it very easy to gather information, read all kinds of newspaper and magazine articles related to Climbing. It would seriously help you become a better climber when you start to learn more and more.