By: Kaiya Irion
Though I have not been rock climbing long, I would like to give out some techniques I’ve learned for other beginners to use.
- Warm up. I know it seems obvious, but sometimes I can’t help but jump onto a bouldering problem that looks really cool. But then it strains my muscles too early. So, work easy problems first and make sure to grab the holds open-handed. Leave all your weight on your feet by straightening your arms. This will keep you from wasting your energy before your big climbs.
- Don’t let your feet hang. Especially on a slope. I think this is self-explained.
- Trust your foot holds; even if they look tiny and thin. If they don’t wiggle, they are probably fine.
- Don’t be afraid of falling. ( Note that I have only climbed indoors)This was a huge problem for me in the beginning. But slowly I began to feel more comfortable and I’m able to go forward on problems that I would have been hesitant at unless I was on a rope. Though of course, there comes a point where not being afraid becomes dangerous.
- If you fall, fall trying. Better to fall on a problem than to just give up, right? Especially on a rope.
These are just some tips that have helped me. I hope they help you too.