Big Climbing Goals Start with a Few Small Steps
Want to climb harder routes or improve your technique? Start with small, specific habits, like selecting a specific skill to focus on every month, or adding a particular warm up routine to your session.
By focusing on manageable steps, you’ll set a strong foundation for steady improvement.
You may not notice huge changes right away, but over time, these small actions add up to significant progress.
Consistency in Small Habits = Big Gains on the Wall
Building climbing skills doesn’t require monumental shifts. It requires small, regular actions.
Instead of setting a goal like “climb a certain grade by the end of the year,” try aiming for a weekly practice that will naturally lead you there. Think about small, consistent goals, such as improving foot placement or grip strength. Breaking down your goals into micro-habits makes them easier to maintain and far less overwhelming. And with enough consistency, you’ll gradually push past your previous limits and unlock your full climbing potential.
Routines that Work: Small, Sustainable Habits for Climbers
For climbers, routines are especially important. Here are a few easy but powerful habits you can adopt in the new year:
- Warm-Up Routine: Spend five minutes warming up your hands, fingers, and shoulders before every session. It doesn’t take much time but can make a big difference in preventing injuries.
- Weekly Skill Drill: Dedicate one session per week to practicing a specific technique, like footwork precision or dynos.
- Recovery Focus: Make stretching or foam rolling a regular part of your cooldown to keep your body in top shape.
- Finger Strength Routine: Use a hangboard or fingerboard twice a week to build up your grip strength gradually.
These habits are simple, realistic, and easy to build into your routine. Over time, they’ll become second nature, helping you stay focused on improvement without overwhelming yourself with a huge goal.
Make It a Habit, Not Just a Goal
One of the reasons people give up on their New Year’s resolutions is that they think of them as one big goal they need to reach quickly. Habits, on the other hand, are a gradual process.
They’re about building a routine, not hitting a specific target. When you think of your goals as habits, it’s easier to stay on track because you’re not chasing a single outcome. Instead, you’re creating a routine that naturally supports your growth and progress.
So, what’s your climbing habit for 2025? Whether it’s focusing on grip strength, practicing a specific move, or building endurance, each habit you build is a step toward becoming a better climber. Remember, success is in the routine!
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