I find inspiration in tackling those out-of-my-comfort zone experiences. I haven’t always been good at doing so, but I try anyway and find it extremely invigorating to work hard at something, like a climbing project, and notice a bit of progress with each attempt. To make headway as a climber, I rely heavily on these experiences. Along with the grueling training and an endless amount of sit-ups, I crave a routine filled with sweat, turgid arms and shredded tips.
Beautiful Upper Headwall. Amazing routes, 5 min from camp.
Working an 11c at the Gallery.
As Ethan mentioned in the last post, we, among other friends, plan to follow a modified workout regimen outlined by Neil Gresham, author of the Building A Better Climber Series. We’ve set realistic goals and plan to adhere to workouts and meal plans that will help us achieve those goals.
The lower roof crux of Soloflex 5.12c in The Alcove.
yum. healthy and zesty!
In sharing this with each of you, it also holds us accountable. We all have friends, by the simple virtue of their enthusiasm and psych for climbing make us better climbers. Sharing our climbing goals and training logs with other climbers is a way for us to connect over our excitement and the challenges we encounter along the way. In doing so, it too, encourages us to step out of our comfort zones, train longer and send harder – always, with great friends there to root us on.
climbing at Ten Sleep with great friends.
Team clips on the summit halfway through a looooong 18 hour day!
There’s no denying it. I love the technical rock faces with the tiny ‘bullshit’ holds. On these routes, my focus is fierce and my confidence is at its peak. Going for an onsight attempt at or above my redpoint limit is not unusual with this style of climbing. I am a sucker for it. That said, I am often terrified of the bulgy, even slightly overhanging roof routes and long cruxes, and would much prefer to top-rope these lines than give in to a good lead burn. I know this is a weakness of mine and to strengthen it, I need to approach these routes differently, focusing more of my efforts on them than the familiar, go-to crimp climb. I hope to do so by incorporating more of these routes and climbing styles in my training plan (both outside and in the gym).
love-hate relationship. tubin’ in Idaho.
here we go!
you do love those tiny “bullshit” holds, but if you work your weakness and get better at the steeps you will be a well rounded crusher! here is to a great year!! Stay strong, stay focused, and stay psyched!! you got this shit!
thanks, Benny! and cheers to a great year! now, come visit so we can climb together (and shred pow, too)!