Techniques for beginner rock climbers

Learn a little about the basics like maintaining balance, edging, and smearing in this nice video for beginner rock climbers. From counter-force to efficiency, this is a nice overview.

Five essential principles of rock climbing

Here are some easy insights from Movement for Climbers.

Principle #1: Opposite hand and foot

This is also called contralateral movement. Stability and balance come from using your opposite hand and foot.

Principle #2: Counterpressure is your friend

Stable body position comes from counterpressure moves like the push and pull. When gravity isn’t available to create force, make some yourself!

Principle #3: The 90° rule

When you’re pulling on a hold, your forearm should be at a 90 degree angle from the hold for maximum purchase. 

Principle #4: Track your centre of gravity to understand your base of support

To avoid swinging away from the wall, try to keep your centre of gravity inside your base of support.

Principle #5: Move away to move toward; understanding deadpoints

Sometimes moving statically to a hold can be difficult (or impossible)! A simple way to overcome this obstacle is to use momentum to reach the hold. This is known as a deadpoint. 

How to maximize your first year of climbing

Prioritize your mileage to foster your comfort and efficiency, develop quality movement patterns, and get your reps in. Practice your hold types, like jugs, crimps, sidepulls, underclings, or slopers, equally.