training
My training formula
As a 40 year old, training is different for me now than it was 10 years ago. It takes longer to warm up and an injury will take far longer to recover from – so it needs to be avoided at all costs!
Aside from a good diet and ensuring adequate rest, a training programme for climbing (in my opinion) should include the following elements:
Static strength
Provides the ability to hold the body in a position whilst climbing.
dynamic movement
If you can’t reach statically then you’ll need to be coordinated.
flexibility
Greater flexibility results in more choice for your feet and better hip positions for balance
actual climbing
If you’re not climbing regularly then you won’t have any ‘flow’.
Static Strength
Floor, Fingerboard and Rings
These exercises are about building balanced strength in my upper body and because I want to remain injury free, the work intensity is set for an 8 week period.
Dynamic Movement
Bouldering
The focus is on coordinating movements that require an explosive or dynamic element. Frequently this means being able to catch your next hold whilst maintaining body tension so that your feet stay on.
Flexibility
Stretching
I try and stretch as often as I can to maintain my hip flexibility. This includes both ‘static’ and ‘active’ stretching.
Actual Climbing – ‘Flow’
Circuits and Indoor Lead
Throughout the winter months in the UK, climbing indoors is the only way to ensure consistency in your training.