Slab climbing technique. Perfect for climbing enthusiasts! #bouldern #bouldering #girlswhoclimb”. Trust in the friction, move slowly, and step up. May 21, 2019 · AMGA Certified Rock Instructor Erik Kramer-Webb explains five elements of good slab climbing technique: 1 low heels, 2 hips out, 3 smooth movement, 4 lateral movement of the hips, and 5 palm Nov 3, 2020 · The second in a 3-part article series, written with the aim of helping improve your rock climbing technique. If you learn a few tricks, you’ll find yourself much better equipped to take on big days out on friction slab or that weird slopey problem at the gym. In this article, we will explore three advanced climbing techniques: dynos, mantles, and slab climbing. Slabs won’t pump you, although it is surprising how strenuous a hard slab can be, because although the angle is less than vertical, the holds can be micro. May 31, 2023 · You may hate slab climbing, but being skilled in the art of less-than-vertical climbing is a necessary tool in your multi-use toolbox. Analyze Your Footwork Take video of your climb and analyze your footwork. I climb with heel down to gain more rubber-rock contact. Technique drills are used to isolate specific aspects of climbing and focus on improving them through repetitive practice. Download Your Free e-book: "How to Maximize Your First Year of Climbing" - the guide I wish I had when I started:https://www. Context - I've been climbing for 5 years, at anything between V5 to V7 (indoor) depending on style. It’s essential to focus on precise foot placements and maintaining a low center of gravity while climbing slabs. Here are 22 techniques with a brief explanation of what it is, when to do it and how to do it. I get by primarily with passable technique and footwork and okay finger strength, none of which I seem to be able to transfer to climbing on anything worse than a shallow overhang. Climbing slab requires good technique, precision, and trust in your abilities. From essential gear to top global locations, this article covers everything you need to navigate the world of less-than-vertical climbs with confidence Oct 15, 2021 · Slab climbing is a form of rock climbing in which the rock face is a slab that is at less than a 90-degree angle from the ground. Jul 7, 2023 · Angle Slabs: Think about holding your body in place while moving your feet up. It requires exceptional strength and a good command of various climbing techniques to navigate the bouldering problems. Apr 21, 2020 · Knowing the right climbing techniques is crucial for becoming better. 1927 Likes, TikTok video from Lucija Tarkuš (@lucijatarkus): “Discover essential slab climbing tips and techniques to enhance your skills and have fun on the wall! #climbing #worldcup #slabclimbing #bouldering”. In this article, we’ll dive into some essential tips and tricks for conquering these deceptively difficult surfaces with confidence and finesse. Techniques such as smearing, where climbers maximize their grip by keeping the balls of their feet in direct contact with the rock, and maintaining a low heel position to enhance friction, are essential in navigating the slab terrains. Bouldering and climbing technique and training for kids and adults. Dec 24, 2023 · Slab climbing requires an understanding of the subtleties of smearing. If you’ve been itching to up your game in the world of multi-pitch climbing, mastering slab wall techniques is an excellent way to do just that. I find slab climbing a very patient art that requires balance, and (usually) very little strength. Vertical to slightly overhanging: Keep arms straight and hips low and sucked into the wall. May 19, 2022 · The result is this video featuring his best tips on how to feel more secure and more confident when stepping on bad holds on climbing on slab problems. I climb much harder on overhung routes vs slab, and part of that discrepancy is down to my technique I believe - specifically footwork. Learning to pirouette your way up a slab Well, slab climbing involves ascending virtually blank rock faces that have a less than vertical incline (watch the Nalle Hukkataival video above). Jan 25, 2018 · Today I share some rock climbing tips and slab climbing techniques when it comes to balancing on the wall and how I managed to send this particular boulderin In contrast to slab and vertical walls, overhangs require the climber to focus on keeping their hips into the wall by twisting and keeping their arms straight. This article focusses on the art of rock climbing slabs. Feb 14, 2022 · Each climb is a Rubik’s Cube with an infinite number of ways to be unlocked, which is why climbing is so beautiful, interesting and addictive. Climbing Technique #2: Utilize Your Feet. Focus on distributing your weight uniformly throughout the climbing shoe's sole to make the most amount of contact with the rock. In rock climbing a face climb is a type of climbing route where the rock face is fully vertical, unlike in slab climbing, and is largely featureless, unlike in crack climbing. This delicate balance fosters improved technique, agility, and confidence, making slab climbing an ideal training ground to improve climbing footwork. Smears require a deliberate technique due to their lack of defined edges. Whether you’re on an overhang or a low-angle slab, the idea is to keep your weight pressed onto your feet. Since footwork is the key to all climbing technique, even crack climbing, this builds a foundation that carries over to all other climbing techniques. #1 Discover the art of slab climbing - an exhilarating technique that involves scaling rock faces with minimal holds. Learn how to conquer slab routes with confidence using these expert strategies. Sep 18, 2017 · In part 2 of a 3 part blog series, learn the 5 slab climbing techniques and how you can combine balance and footwork to get to the top. Jun 23, 2024 · Slab climbing is a challenging aspect of indoor climbing that requires a different set of techniques compared to overhangs. What’s slab? What does it mean to top-rope? (For a comprehensive, though not exhaustive list, see our glossary). We are Zach and Maddie! We're professional sport climbers on the Canadian National Team and specialize in bouldering! Video schedule: Thursdays - Training Series episode Sundays - Tutorial / vlog Apr 27, 2016 · Position and Tension Underclings work best if the handhold is near your midsection. #climbing #bouldering #indoorclimbing Nov 7, 2023 · Want to get better at bouldering fast? Check out this extensive guide to 21 advanced bouldering tips and techniques to climb V5+. Feb 9, 2023 · Smearing is a common climbing technique utilized in both indoor and outdoor rock climbing. Once your weight is even with or above the sloper, use it as a mantel by pushing downward. What defines slab climbing compared to other styles? A slab is a section of wall that is less steep than vertical. As you progress in your rock climbing journey, mastering advanced techniques becomes essential to conquer more challenging routes and push your limits. On easy ground you can focus on making each placement perfectly and this will set the standard for the rest of the session. It will also help to reduce the boredom of your warm-up by keeping Aug 11, 2022 · Climbing, like many sports, is full of its jargon. When discussing “how steep” a wall is, for instance, we have three general terms: slab, vertical, and overhang. Use your toes Using your toes is probably the most basic climbing technique and should be one Jul 17, 2021 · Rock climbing smearing essentials. As you get your hands and feet solidly in place, engage your core. When it comes to outdoor climbing certain techniques like face climbing and roofs can translate pretty well from indoor climbing. Aug 4, 2023 · This technique is most often utilized on slabs where the angle of the wall is less than vertical. Climbing is an exhilarating and physically demanding sport that requires strength, flexibility, and technique. Rarely though do people understand the nuances of two particular techniques. Apr 15, 2025 · If you’re new to friction slab climbing and want to practice some techniques before heading up a more committing route, we recommend you visit one of these five crags. Although the move may seem straightforward, it’s not easy to master this fundamental climbing technique. com gives the following advice as to how to approach and practice on slopers. The May 22, 2022 · 10 Climbing Techniques Taught by a Slab Expert - ft. Ideal tips for climbers seeking improved stability and performance. Learn techniques to master this exciting rock climbing style. May 21, 2020 · There are many climbing techniques that can be learned and leverage to improve your climbing performance. And more importantly, it minimizes work on your arms. My climbing shoe is the la sportiva solutions, downsized a fair amount - but I don't think this stops me from climbing slab at the level I'm at (even if they Aug 27, 2024 · Discover expert tips and techniques to master slab climbing, one of the most challenging yet rewarding styles in the climbing gym. is graded just 5. How to Use Body Tension & Core Strength to Improve Climbing Overhangs When you look at slab climbing, body tension and core strength isn’t used as much as overhang climbing. Rock climbing is not an easy sport, and it is not just a sport. Skills Belaying Rappelling Technique Sport Climbing Trad Climbing Bouldering Nutrition Training Skills 3 days ago · Explore slab climbing basics, types, and essential gear. I only ever really climb slab when I compete at university competitions. In this video, I try every single boulder from the set and break down the unique techniques that make slab climbing so tough (and satisfying). What is smearing, when to do it, how to get better at it, advanced techniques and the best shoes for it! Slab for technique? Hi everyone, I’d like some of your opinions regarding a discussion I’ve been having with my climbing partner. Every technical move A discussion of the fundamentals of climbing moves, including hanging smart, using your legs, and being conscious of your feet. Footwork drills One of the best times to work on your footwork is during your first warm-up climbs. Jun 11, 2024 · Learn these 5 key bouldering techniques including footwork, drop knees, and more for your next visit to the climbing gym. Read, follow, and absorb them, and you may just learn to love climbing without holds. Learn how to master precise footwork, subtle body movements, and effective use of friction on tilted rock surfaces. It’s more common to smear when climbing outdoors, but some indoor climbs require the climber to utilize this technique on volumes or rounded footholds. Learning good slab technique and being comfortable with its committing nature is essential for many climbers. While strength and endurance play their parts, the true secret to advancing in this sport lies in mastering climbing technique. . Smearing on a hold in the gym. In other words, smearing is ideal on less-than-vertical walls. Feb 10, 2021 · Slab Climbing Technique for Rock Climbing and Boulderinghttps://rockclimb. ” Dec 5, 2022 · TINY holds, Slab Climbing TECHNIQUE Bouldering Breakdown 982 subscribers Subscribe In this article, we’ll delve into the essential tips and tricks that every climber should know when approaching slab wall climbs using top rope technique. Dec 29, 2023 · However, smearing is, by and large, a climbing technique that you deploy in low-angle slab climbing. I've been climbing a few years almost entirely indoors and on slightly overhanging to very steep walls meaning I have heavily neglected climbing slab. Uncover tips, techniques, and gear recommendations to master this unique style of rock climbing. 1. Climbing slabs is difficult for both bouldering and rock climbing. Learn about different types of climbing techniques and moves, and get tips on how to do them. It truly is a slab climbing master class. Climbing is like a dance - The aim is to choreograph the following types of holds and moves into one fluid movement. 13c which might be why it's been unrepeated for 23 years. 82 Likes, TikTok video from lilclimbs (@lilclz): “Explore effective techniques on a creative boulder slab and watch amazing climbs. In this article, we’ll learn all about indoor climbing walls and their angles. Learn fundamental climbing techniques to improve your climbing efficiency, prevent injury, and tackle more difficult routes. 14+ slabs exist in Spanish granite—but one of the hardest slabs in the U. Apr 17, 2023 · ‪@AnnaHazelnutt‬ joined us at the Lattice HQ to teach us some slab techniques! In this video we Anna covers the two major styles of slab movement - Smearing and Edging. Nov 3, 2020 · The second in a 3-part article series, written with the aim of helping improve your rock climbing technique. Jan 12, 2022 · New to climbing? Our beginner's guide to climbing moves, holds, & technique provides the information you need to improve today. However, there are many things you can do to improve your slab climbing ability. Slab climbing and crack climbing technique are two areas where many climbers struggle. Voici 5 exercices pour progresser instantanément. Slab climbing, also known as friction climbing, prioritizes foot work over hand and footholds, as opposed to vertical climbs or overhang climbs which often have foot and hand holds. Once your core sags, you will lose opposition and be forced to rely on pure finger Discover effective techniques to conquer V2-V3 slab routes. On heel up, toe down, I know how to climb technical climbing where I need to toe down on Mar 8, 2022 · Margalef, Spain From Climbing Techniques: How to Climb Slopers This article on climbing. This post details what is smearing, how to smear, common mistakes to avoid, and more. by working with a climbing guide at one of the many areas across Colorado we can help climbers find Feb 25, 2025 · Slab climbing is an excellent way to develop technique, patience, and trust in your footwork, making it a valuable skill for both beginners and advanced climbers. Love it or hate it, slab climbing is part of being a well rounded climber. By using your gravity-advantage, balance, and smearing technique, you will be amazed at what is possible! Feb 11, 2021 · Bouldering brings an obsession with power. When climbing a slab, climbers use foot placement techniques such as inside edging Jan 31, 2022 · On a slab bereft of any obvious hand- and footholds, the client is forced to trust the friction of the boots while learning the subtleties of body position and center of gravity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, there are always new techniques to learn and ways to improve your performance. movementforclimbers. The higher the undercling is, the more off-balance you will feel until you move your body up to be even with the hold. But footwork is the foundation of all technique, and confidence in smearing establishes your connectivity to the rock, even on steeper routes. Discover the intricacies of slab climbing, a unique style that prioritizes finesse, balance, and technique over sheer strength. slab work AGE:11 Oct 6, 2022 · How to climb on slab using this technique: straight-arming. 10 ish slab on various rock type maybe a grade lower on pure friction slab. Mar 6, 2022 · Check out the video to see the slab technique breakdown! My Climbing/Workout Gear: https://amzn. S. Climbers must refine their slab climbing techniques, utilizing smearing, weight shifts, and precise foot placements to navigate the subtle inclines. Mar 10, 2020 · Website DescriptionTop 10 Technique Tips for Indoor Climbing Tuesday 10th March 2020 By Neil Gresham 1. to/3J6fNdDmore When first starting with slab bouldering, some common mistakes or pitfalls to avoid include neglecting proper slab footwork and balancing techniques. 15a slab was recently established on UK slate, and 5. Once mastered, it can significantly enhance a climber’s progression, especially on slab-like surfaces and competition problems. Even if Mar 17, 2022 · You’ll have a better gripping angle that reinforces your place on the slab. The author, JP Whitehead, says: “Unlike other holds, such as crimps or edges, where one can usually just pull down harder, slopers require more finesse than brute strength. Feb 9, 2023 · Rocking over is a common climbing technique utilized on slabs. Apr 24, 2024 · Flag to improve climbing balance and technique on all angles and types of routes (except slabs, generally). com/free-ebo 37 Likes, TikTok video from Seize_Machine (@seize_machine): “Explore dynamic slab climbing techniques to enhance your bouldering skills. Don’t know what a slab wall is? Check out our article on Top 3 Bouldering Wall Types. Nose over toes. The combination of minimal holds and a lack of steepness makes slab climbing particularly demanding. Jun 8, 2022 · Here are our six keys to master-class slab climbing. Slab routes feature low-angle terrain, often characterized by smooth, vertical to slightly overhanging rock faces with sparse holds. To successfully navigate slabs, climbers must focus on weight distribution, balance, core strength, and smearing techniques. Jun 5, 2024 · As a rock climber, you may encounter three major types of walls: Slab, Vertical, and Overhang. video----------Although "Rock Climb" will have more than 100 videos (7 hours+ of co Jan 22, 2022 · This technique requires strong shoulders and triceps, good balance and the flexibility to “match” (when two appendages use the same hold) your foot and hand, often using a heel-hook. Because of the less aggressive wall angle, slab climbs often feature smaller or flatter hands and feet. This article is part of a wider guide: Climbing Technique 101 What is the rock over? The “rock over” is a climbing move in which the climber shifts their weight over a secure foothold by swinging their hips. It's simple. Jan 31, 2022 · Get Better At Slab Climbing—Master This Critical Skill Today, with so many climbers learning technique in a gym, slab climbing has become somewhat of a lost art. Sep 13, 2023 · This week, slab climbing queens ‪@AnnaHazelnutt‬ and Irena provide a lesson in slab technique. Understanding and practicing these techniques will enhance your repertoire of climbing skills and open up new possibilities on the wall. Jun 11, 2024 · If rock climbing is a dance on the wall, slab climbing is the Grand Ballet, requiring excellent technique, determination, and bravery. Sep 22, 2023 · L'escalade en dalle peut être intimidante : elle nécessite une technique subtile et les chutes peuvent être effrayantes. Learn something about use of the feet and basics climbing techniques. Josh and Jen take us through a few sessions to work on for twisting & heeling technique followed by a comp project session to turn the pressure up and also f Jun 8, 2022 · Big-toe strength isn’t just handy for occasional slab climbing—we need it, and calf strength, for everything, from knee bars to molding or wrapping our feet around holds. emilyysends Geek Climber 315K subscribers 2K Aug 24, 2017 · Friction climbing, also known as slab climbing, is a type of rock climbing where the rock face is angled to less than vertical and offers little in the way of traditional hand and foot holds. Perfect for indoor climbing enthusiasts! #bouldering #rockclimbingvideos #indoorclimbing”. The rock climbing technique dogma is essentially to keep your arms feeling weightless and place the burden on your feet. The term “rock over” refers to the Oct 10, 2023 · Slab climbing presents a unique set of challenges that set it apart from other climbing styles. Face-climbing routes are typically sustained and exposed, and longer multi-pitch face-routes can become big wall climbing. 🔥🔥If you have d As per title, I'm awful at climbing anything on an overhang (V4-6 on slab/vert, V3-4 on overhang). Whether you're a seasoned climber or new to the vertical world, understanding climbing terminology and techniques can enhance your experience and help you connect with the climbing community. Any aspiring climber can benefit greatly from a long apprenticeship on the slabs. Aug 11, 2022 · This video highlights key slab climbing techniques that can be used in trad climbing or sport climbing or any rock climbing outside. Big moves, big pulls, big grips and small holds each profess ludicrous finger strength and biceps forged in the fires of a disciplined training regime. Each type presents unique challenges and requires different techniques, especially in speed climbing Feb 25, 2025 · Slab climbing is an excellent way to develop technique, patience, and trust in your footwork, making it a valuable skill for both beginners and advanced climbers. English climber Johnny Dawes was notable for his 'smearing' technique and his ability to climb extreme slab-routes without using his hands. Feb 21, 2024 · Slab climbing, characterized by low-angle rock faces, presents a unique challenge in balance. What Is Slab Climbing? Jul 10, 2021 · Slab rock climbing, what is it exactly? Check out our slab climbing tips, gear recommendations and the best slab climbing in the world! Jan 3, 2024 · Looking to improve your slab climbing technique? Dive into this guide for valuable tips and tricks to help you succeed on the rock wall. Sep 22, 2021 · Slab climbing is hated by many but loved by the dedicated. This guide goes over the fundamental techniques for beginners and explores more advanced techniques for experienced climbers. There are hundreds of climbing techniques! 💯If you take footswaps for example, we can think of at least 5 common methods (hop, roll, twist, tablecloth & ste A comment about the "drop the heels" rule: it works for friction slab or smedgy footholds, but if you're climbing "steep" slab (closer to vertical), this won't work as well because you're relying more on edging than pure friction. Mastery of this move and proper execution will help you advance on slab terrain. Most undercling movements will utilize one Feb 21, 2023 · I have a love-hate relationship with climbing on Slabs and in an attempt to get better, I've found these tips and techniques really help me. Rock of this orientation is often called a ‘slab’. Feb 22, 2023 · This article is part of two wider guides: Climbing Technique 101 & The Basics of Indoor Bouldering Why do climbers use technical drills? Climbers use technical drills to improve their climbing skills and technique. [10] Dawes made the first free ascent of Indian Face and pioneered slab climbing on bolted sport climbing slate routes. He claims that slab climbing is a sure-fire way to improve climbing technique (greater awareness of body position, balance etc). There have always been those that describe the importance of climbing technique, but what does it actually mean in terms of climbing? Is it footwork? Is it slab? Can board climbing even offer technical Dec 7, 2023 · A 5. By using this simple technique you can utilize better leverage to make Rock climbing is an exhilarating sport that challenges you both physically and mentally. Friction climbing requires the liberal use of ‘smearing’ or ‘frictioning’ techniques, where the climber uses a combination of balance and Slab climbing becomes very difficult when the hand holds are too small to use effectively and the foot holds are far apart. Sep 29, 2023 · The journey to becoming a slab pro involves mastering a range of techniques that prioritize balance and footwork over brute strength. Curious of what technique this is and if someone can explain mechanically how it works. We’ll discuss how to effectively position your body, utilize subtle features within the rock surface, distribute weight efficiently, and maintain balance throughout each stage of your ascent. Discover slab climbing tips to improve balance, footwork, and technique. Rock Climbing Techniques. An effective undercling requires body tension and opposition, or counter-pressure. CLIMBING FOOTWORK Foot technique is your most useful (and the most misunderstood) tool. Specifically, on heel down I understand this and I know how to climb up to maybe low 5.