When I first started climbing, I asked the seasoned climbers how to get better. The answer was always the same: "Climb more." Many years later in my climbing career, guess what? That advice hasn't changed much. Over time, I've learned one of the crucial steps to improving my climbing is consistency, but it takes more than just showing up to the gym. Here's a few things I've picked up from personal experience and the wisdom of lifelong dirtbags.
Climb Regularly
Consistency IS the secret when it comes to improving your climbing. Without actually showing up, one can only dream of improving. Set a schedule, stick to it, and you'll see a significant difference over time! Aim for climbing at least two times a week, but ideally three to four. While showing up is the first step, mixing up your sessions is also important. Incorporate bouldering, rope climbing, strength and flexibility training. This well-balanced routine will contribute to more powerful and efficient movements onto the wall. If making it to the gym regularly feels impossible, training at home with the Rocket Wall is a game-changer for your climbing routine. This freestanding setup lets you set your own routes so you can dial in exactly what you need to work on. No need to tear up drywall or call in a contractor—just set it up and start climbing.
Build Strength and Stay Injury-Free
Strength isn't just about big muscles; it's about making sure your fingers, tendons, and connective tissues can handle the stresses of climbing, especially when you are trying to get into the gym multiple times a week. Incorporate exercises like weighted pull-ups and finger-strength training to prevent overuse injuries and build grip endurance.
A hangboard at home or in the gym is crucial for building strength. The Rock-Stah Wood Hangboard is especially practical for the convenient home workouts. Plus, it features an adjustable phone holder, which helps you track your progress and time exercises.
Focus on Technique
Strength alone won't take you to the next level—smart climbing will. Focus on footwork and proper body positioning to climb efficiently. Remember, your legs are stronger than your arms, so use them to your advantage. Consider climbing with a partner who can help you catch movement mistakes you might not notice in yourself. Embrace the beta.
For those solo bouldering sessions, film yourself climbing. It may feel odd, but watching your movement in slow motion and on repeat will show you habits you must fix. It's not about becoming the next climbing influencer, it's about honing your technique.
The Stages of Progression
The journey to improving your climbing (or any skill) takes time. These are some common stages of progress. Recognize which stage you're in and embrace it.
Unconsciously Unskilled – You don't know what you don't know.
Consciously Unskilled – You realize your weaknesses and start working on them.
Consciously Skilled – You've built technique but still need to focus on improving it.
Unconsciously Skilled – You climb smoothly without thinking, becoming a true master of your skill.
Progress in climbing isn't just about grinding harder, it's about efficient and smart training. Keep showing up, and with time, you will notice how everything will begin to click.
Featured Climbing Training Gear
Maverick: The on-the-go, bring it anywhere hangboard. On a family road trip to keep your fingers in shape. We like to bring this to the crag with us to keep our fingers warm—without losing skin on mediocre warm-ups—at that steep, thuggy sport crag.
Pinch Blocks: Don't let pinch strength stop you from sending! Use it while hanging, lifting, and even for one arm hangs; featuring various widths for pinching, a 20 mm edge, and a jug.
The Rock-Stah: Our handcrafted version of a traditional hangboard, with curving crimp rails to help alleviate unnecessary strain on your pulleys. Because ain’t no one got time for a finger injury…
The Rocket Wall: Available in 6’ and 8’ widths, it’s been tough for us to keep up with the demand for this innovative home climbing wall solution. Slightly overhanging, the Rocket Wall is big enough to set routes on, or to build a systems board.
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