Ways to Improve Your Wall Climbing Ability

These wall climbing tips are designed for augmentingLearn how to climb smoothly. Erratic, uneven climbs
both climbing skills and minimizing risks of injury. Evenwill tire you easily. Consequently, your ascent will be
if you have been climbing for a while, a review ofslowed. Do not wriggle around; follow the path you
these procedures will ensure you are not deviatingplanned out. Move smoothly and you will not have
from the proper ways of climbing.balance problems. Make sure you are aware of your
Loosening Up Your Musclesmovements.
Loosen up those muscles by doing some stretching.Relaxation and Focus
Do this about 30 minutes before you start climbing.Take it one step at a time. Think only of the next
This prepares your joints and ligaments for the climb.step, nothing more. When climbing, use only the
If the muscles are stiff, they will not be flexible andrequired steps. This will conserve energy. Eventually,
tire quickly.you will learn to be deliberate on your ascent.
Understand the RouteRest Spots
Do not just grope blindly when you climb. Study theIf the wall is high, look for some rest spots (an edge,
surface features. Decide on the path you will takeoverhang etc). Take a rest every 3 meters you
and follow it. Take due note of any potential roughclimb. Even if you feel strong, take the break; your
spots and how you can go through it. When you getbody will need it later.
down, analyze your performance. Are you happyMuscle Training
with it, or is there a way you can improve?Work on the muscles on your arms, chest and legs.
Tips on Keeping Your BalanceThere are several weight and muscle training
Remember this rule: use just enough grip strength toprograms you can follow. This has to be accompanied
keep you balanced. A common mistake is grippingby a balanced diet. If you are over or underweight,
too tightly. This leads to forearm muscle fatigue.you will tire out quickly.
By applying just the needed pressure, balance will beNotes on Falling
attained. As you ascend, position your body as closePush yourself away from the wall when you fall.
the wall as possible. This bolsters your balancingNever let the rope circle on your body or equipment.
ability. It also limits stress on the grip.Also try to learn to keep your feet down. Do not be
Reducing Arm and Leg Fatiguediscouraged if you fall; everyone does. The important
Use your legs to hold your weight, not your arms.thing is learning how to handle it.
The arms are for balance and weight shifting.Properly applied, these wall climbing tips will boost
Another wall climbing tip: if you are makingyour climbing skills while reducing fatigue. You just
movements that need upper body strength, proceedneed to be patient and work on the aspects
without hesitation. Taking too long will increasementioned. Slowly, you will notice improvement, which
pressure on the body.will build confidence.
Avoid Jerky Movements