The Climbing Primer

Technique & Movement

The fundamentals that matter far more than raw strength. New climbers tend to over-grip and haul with their arms, then wonder why they tire out so fast. These guides focus on the things that actually move you up the wall: quiet, precise footwork, keeping your arms straight so your bones carry the load instead of your muscles, positioning your hips close to the wall, and using a flag for balance. The core idea is simple to say and worth a lifetime of practice: climb with your legs, not your arms, and let good movement do the work.

Technique & Movement

9 guides
Technique & Movement

Straight Arms and Resting Positions on the Wall

Learn why straight arms save energy on the wall, how to find rest stances, shake out your forearms, and read a route for hidden rests.

July 3, 2026
Technique & Movement

Climbing Technique for Beginners: Move Like a Climber

Learn basic climbing technique fundamentals that matter more than strength: quiet footwork, straight arms, hip positioning, and drills to move better fast.

June 30, 2026
Technique & Movement

How to Climb More Efficiently and Save Energy

Learn how to climb more efficiently by using straight arms, reading routes, moving feet first, and resting smart so you stop getting pumped so fast.

June 30, 2026
Technique & Movement

What Is Flagging in Climbing?

Flagging uses your free leg as a counterweight to stay balanced on the wall. Learn the three types and when each one solves a balance problem.

June 25, 2026
Technique & Movement

What Is Overhang Climbing and How to Tackle It

Learn why overhang climbing drains beginners fast and how high feet, hip rotation, core tension, and straight arms change everything on steep terrain.

June 21, 2026
Technique & Movement

Body Positioning and Hips: Getting Close to the Wall

Learn how staying close to the wall, turning your hips, and centering your weight over your feet saves energy and unlocks smoother climbing movement.

June 18, 2026
Technique & Movement

How to Use Different Climbing Holds (Crimps, Jugs, Slopers)

Learn the main types of climbing holds and how to grip each one. From jugs to slopers to crimps, this beginner guide covers body position and safe technique.

June 14, 2026
Technique & Movement

Use Your Legs, Not Your Arms: The Beginner's Secret

Learn why climbing with your legs instead of your arms saves energy, prevents pump, and unlocks better technique for beginner climbers.

June 10, 2026
Technique & Movement

Footwork 101: Why Quiet Feet Matter in Climbing

Learn why precise climbing footwork saves energy. Covers quiet feet, toe placement, edging, smearing, and beginner drills you can start today.

June 6, 2026

← All topics