Improve your walking with climbing

Outdoor headlines

25 February 2010 12:22

What can climbing walls do for hill-walkers? Author of Indoor Climbing pb Cicerone  £13, Mountain Instructor Pete Hill  says, “Training at a wall in the late winter months readies your legs, arms and brain with two key skills for the scrambling season ahead.”
 
Balance Practise on large holds and traverse at not too steep an angle, letting your feet take much of your weight. Relax onto the holds and move very deliberately, keeping your weight over your feet and don't over-use your arms as they will just get tired. Doing this will help you learn how to hold your body over your feet as you move from one position to another. Then progress to steeper climbs with more arm work.
 
Flexibility A good session on the climbing wall can do wonders for your flexibility, important on scrambling terrain. The ability to be able to move your arms and legs high can be the key to overcoming awkward sections on the hill. After your wall session gently stretch all of your body to avoid any stiffness and leave you ready to head out for the hills the next day.