Movement Blog

Rock climbing is a multifaceted sport that challenges the climber's physical strength, mental acuity, and technical skills. Beyond the thrill of ascent, it’s a dance of precision where fitness and strength training play a crucial role in enhancing overall performance. Unlike conventional gym routines, climbing demands a combination of strength, technique, and problem-solving, offering a holistic approach to fitness that can transform climbing abilities. Boosting Physical Capabilities: The Role of Strength Training Incorporating strength training into a climber's regimen is pivotal for pushing past plateaus and advancing to more challenging routes. Key exercises like deadlifts and pull-ups build muscle endurance and power, which are essential for maintaining grip and pulling oneself up on the rock. Additionally, core-focused workouts such as planks and leg raises develop the stability needed to balance and maneuver through complex sequences on the wall. Grip Strength: The Foundation of Climbing One of the most direct benefits of weightlifting for climbers is the enhancement of grip strength. Exercises that involve hand weights, barbells, or resistance bands can significantly improve a climber’s ability to hold onto grips with less fatigue. This is crucial for both bouldering and big wall climbing where a strong, enduring grip can make the difference between success and a fall. Enhancing Flexibility and Mobility While strength is a clear asset, flexibility and mobility are equally critical. Climbers also benefit from incorporating yoga into their training schedules to increase their range of motion. This flexibility allows climbers to reach farther holds and maintain more challenging positions without injury. Dynamic stretching can also aid in preventing strains and enhances the fluidity of movements on the rock. Building a Community of Strength and Skill Strength training for climbers often thrives in a community setting, where shared goals foster motivation and learning. Climbing gyms (like Movement!) that offer fitness classes tailored to climbers provide environments where novices and veterans alike can learn from each other’s experiences and push their limits under the guidance of trainers familiar with the unique demands of the sport. The Synergy of Climbing and Strength Training The integration of strength training and climbing is not merely about achieving physical improvements; it enriches the climbing experience, boosting confidence and enabling climbers to tackle more difficult projects. This synergy not only elevates individual performance but also contributes to a richer, more inclusive climbing culture, where climbers support one another in achieving their personal bests. By emphasizing both fitness and climbing, climbers can enjoy a more fulfilling experience in the sport—advancing their skills, overcoming challenges, and enjoying the community that comes with shared pursuit of climbing excellence.

Just signed up for your first comp and not sure where to start? If you haven’t yet, check out our article, Comp Climbing 101, to learn about comp climbing basics. Still, the day of a redpoint comp can feel overwhelming. So many climbs and so little time – and so many decisions to make! Not to worry, we’ve created a step-by-step strategy guide to help you make key choices to maximize your competition experience.

Whether you're a seasoned climber with years of experience or a newcomer eagerly embracing the thrill of scaling rocks, chances are your adventures have led or will lead you to some of the most breathtaking climbing destinations across the country. As climbers, we're privileged to explore these natural wonders, but with this privilege comes a responsibility to protect and preserve these environments for future generations. This is where climbing stewardship comes into play.

Welcome, climbers! Today, we're diving deep into the world of climbing footwear with a test drive of the Scarpa Reflex VS shoes, sold exclusively at select Movement Gyms, nationwide. These shoes are the newest and most affordable model in the Scarpa fleet, boasting a blend of comfort, performance, and durability that's hard to beat. Join us as we explore everything you need to know about the Scarpa Reflex VS and why it's a game-changer for climbers everywhere.

Nearly 12 years ago – early into my climbing journey, I had a full-blown panic attack at the gym. As a beginner climber, I was so worried about people watching me and thinking, "Wow, that girl really has no idea what she's doing." I felt embarrassed and didn't want anyone to think poorly of me. Irrational? Yes - but I'm confident I'm not the only one who's been there.

Competition climbing, or "comp" climbing as it's often called, has been on the rise in the last few years, especially since the sport made its Olympic debut back in 2020. You may have seen comp routes in your gyms and athletes crush at live events, but you might be wondering, "How exactly does competitive climbing differ from the rock climbing I'm used to?”

Elevate your workout by incorporating these 6 climbing-inspired exercises into your routine! These moves will boost your strength, up your mobility, and get your heart racing, just like a climb sesh at the gym.

If you’re a new climber, listening to people talk in the gym might feel like hearing a different language. If your head is spinning hearing your friend talk about how they finally sent their project after struggling with the crux, don’t worry—we’ve all been there! Climbing has its own set of terms and slang and we’re breaking down some of the essential terms for you in this handy glossary.

Channel the energy your child has for climbing on the walls, furniture—well, everything into a lifelong sport. Far more than just a fun activity, rock climbing builds strength, confidence, and problem solving in children.

Welcome to the wild world of indoor climbing – where the walls and vibes are even higher. As you gear up for your vertical adventure, let's chat about some down-to-earth tips that'll keep you cruising through the climbs with style and respect for the whole climbing crew.