Rock Climbing Essentials

Come at rock climbing from the right angle! Learn about directional loading, which lets you maximize reach and maintain center of gravity on tricky holds.

Improve your rock climbing with these tips about employing your center of gravity! Learn how to find your center of balance and how to move with it.

Before you begin rock climbing more advanced routes, learn how your plan affects your hand and foot placement, plus how to incorporate breaks into your route.

Learn how to edge properly when rock climbing. Discover when to use aggressive or flat shoes, and when to use the edge of your shoe vs. the tips of your toes.

In rock climbing, when you lack sufficient footholds, you must "smear." Learn the proper techniques for smearing safely, and some incorrect positions to avoid.