Written by Roger Ramires
Last updated: Oct 29 , 2024 • 2 min read
Center of Gravity: Keep your center of gravity close to the rock by engaging your core and bringing your hips closer to the wall. This reduces strain on your arms, allowing your legs to take on more of the weight.
Visualize Your Center: Imagine a line from your belly button to the wall; keep this line as short as possible to maintain balance and control.
Lean and Support: Hip scumming involves pressing your hip or thigh against the rock for support. This can be helpful on routes with limited handholds, letting your body weight balance through your lower body.
Anchor for Resting: Use this technique on routes with few footholds as it allows you to take brief rests, especially if you can push your knee or thigh against the rock.
Inner and Outer Flagging: Flagging is the technique of extending one leg outward to counterbalance. An “inner flag” extends the leg across the body, while an “outer flag” points away. This lets you remain stable on even the smallest footholds.
Body Stability: This is particularly helpful on steep or overhanging sections to prevent your body from swinging. Practice flagging on easy climbs to get the hang of it.
Sideways Stance: Instead of stepping straight up, place one foot sideways with your knee pointing away from the wall. This rotates your hips, brings you closer to the wall, and lets you push upward more easily.
Leverage with Legs: Backstepping allows for better use of leg strength instead of relying on your arms, making movements smoother and more powerful.
Flow and Rest Points: Look for natural rests in your sequence to avoid burning out. Plan your body positioning in advance, and remember that slight adjustments in your body angle can make big differences.
Mind Your Core: Engage your core muscles throughout the climb; this provides stability and keeps your movements controlled.