Alas the time has come, yet again, to begin the excruciating training cycle for next year. One might ask, how do you train for climbing? You may be surprised to find that there are A LOT of different things you can do. Our training regime lasts for 6 months, following this basic plan:

Stage 1. Basic Endurance Training (4 weeks)
Stage 2. Endurance Training (3 weeks)
Stage 3. Power Training (3 weeks).
Stage 4. Power and Endurance Training (2 weeks).
Rest – 1 full week
[Start Cycle Over again]

Each stage requires a very different set of activity that is individualized for my ability and for Jake’s ability. The goal is to improve upon our weak areas, regain general ‘overall’ strength (especially in the core) and balance that with specific activities to maximize our results. We train about 5 days a week in a climbing gym, focused on different exercises per stage number. We also have “active rest days” that is meant to work the other areas of our bodies, bringing balance to the whole. Tomorrow is day 1 of Stage 1. I will keep you posted on our progress over the course of the next few weeks.