rockclimbing's topics - tribe.net

Provo, Utah.... Looking for climbing partners!

Heathyr — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 01:12:52 GMT

Hey everyone :D
I just realized that i am seriously climbing deprived... so it's time for me to meet some fellow climbers and hit the rocks again! Anyone interested? I am in the Utah Valley area, and love bouldering, outdoor climbing, lead climbing, and indoor climbing!
-Heathyr-

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

finger popping sound

wasswasswass — Sun, 27 Jan 2008 06:30:25 GMT

I was climbing today at Great Western Power Company in Oakland. Pulled on a hold and heard a popping sound in my left ring finger. Not much pain when bending and straightening, but now I can't pull on it much and it won't straighten completely. Mostly kinda achy.

any thoughts? treatments?

posted in rockclimbing - 9 replies

Increasing Finger Strength for crimper and pincher holds

mrzoolander — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:44:54 GMT

I have a question to anybody out there who is willing to give me some helpful advice. I started climbing last year out here in the Carolina's. I started out top rope and now I have gotting into sport and trad climbing. My biggest downfall is that I don't spend a whole lot of time bouldering to build up finger strength. Being mostly self taught, I am progressively getting better and better with my technique; however V1 and 10a/b overhangs are kicking my ass. I can't seem to build up enough strength in my fingers by doing the hit workouts at the gym on the finger boards. My biggest problem is that I have a hard time holding my body on the wall to make controled moves with small holds like crimpers and small pinchers.

Does anybody have some advise for building up finger strength? Or any good tips on workouts to try? I have tried gripmasters, bouldering twice a week, but either I have platued or I am not getting anywhere here.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

i gotta get my lead card!

jovino — Fri, 02 May 2008 09:46:32 GMT

It's been long enough already. I'm tired of mock-leading. I want the real thing.

I don't have a regular climbing partner or a regular schedule, but I'm willing to commit to hooking up with someone and making this happen. I can climb mid-week, and even mid-day. My schedule is pretty flexible.

I'm currently climbing at about a 5.12 on the top-rope, and 5.11b/c on lead. I know not to back-clip and how to catch my partner should they slip. Oakland GWPC is my stomping ground, but I'm willing to bike it over to Berkeley IW if need be. Or better yet, trade off gyms to help keep it freshy.

So... what say you?

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Looking for los angeles climbers

erin — Wed, 30 Apr 2008 18:59:02 GMT

Hello Fellow Climbers,

I'm looking for a good group of people for some outdoor climbing exursions in the los angeles area. I enjoy climbing and usually do it with a few friends but they have since moved away and left me all alone :-( j/k

Thanks
Erin

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Castle Rock this weekend

hypusine — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 02:34:32 GMT

My buddy Alan and I are going for bouldering this Sunday in Castle Rock if anyone else wants to catch up and have extra spotters. I have a crash pad.

Not sure what time we'll arrive yet. http://www.bayareaclimbers.com/sscr.html#East

It's possible, depending on equipment, that we may do top roping.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Curious about frequency of climbers injuring their bodies?

aaronironscmt — Fri, 29 Feb 2008 08:29:34 GMT

Climbing is something Im pretty much a newbie at.
Have only done a couple assisted rope climbs up and down a face of maybe 100' , a few bouldering sessions and have just joined Ironworks two months ago but mostly for the yoga. Though Ive done a little "bouldering" on that wall a couple times so far.

The aspects of using agile strength and nimbleness to crawl around a wall i like. But injuring my body is not a trade off i am interested enough in climbing to willingly make. Especially as a massage practitioner I want & need to keep my body and hands, arms... in healthy condition.

Which inspires a curiosity worth asking people here -
As climbers, how frequent is it that you or other climbers or boulderers that you know of, incur mild or severe injuries to hands, arms or other areas?

What do you tend to do to help prevent injuries?

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

looking for climbing partner (bay area)

~B'ea~Ma*Grace.~ — Mon, 28 May 2007 19:00:09 GMT

I am also looking for climbing partners, indoor and outdoor. I used to climb a lot outdoors (back east), between 5.8- 5.10, but its been a long time, and I'm way out of shape! Looking to get back into it. I'm in San Rafael, so I could meet to climb at the gym here, but I'd also be willing to go out to East Bay or Mission Cliffs in SF. Also, I dont know too many of the good outdoor spots around here, though I hear there are some good places north of where I am in Marin, and also in East Bay. So if anyone knows of good outdoor places, Id love to get back outside. I'm a good attentive belayer, and have taught basic/intro climbing to college freshman in the past. I can lead belay, though I dont usually lead myself (though maybe by the end of this season I'll be doing that more, too). So, if theres anyone out there who will be patient with me getting back into it, or who wants someone to trade belays with, let me know!
Thanks!
-Brenda

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

Cat Ba

Texashana — Fri, 15 Feb 2008 03:16:04 GMT

Halong Bay, Vietnam, it rocks, too sweet to type

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Question: Would climbers like to fly?

Indy — Thu, 17 Jan 2008 16:40:33 GMT

This is a question for all you climbers out there. I live in Joshua Tree where lots of climbers come every year for our spectacular national park with it's awsome climbing. I'm exploring setting up a flying trapeze school here, and it seems to me like climbers would be good 'customers'.

So here's my question: if you were visiting Joshua Tree to climb, would you be interested in a side-trip adventure of taking a flying trapeze lesson? In one 90 minute lesson for about $40. you would successfully climb to the 30 foot platform, jump off and swing on the trapeze, hang by your knees, fly to and be caught by the catcher (!) and do a back-flip into the net. All this is perfectly safe, with safety harness preventing any mishaps. People from 5 years old to 80 do this and have a great experience.

It seems to me like both climbers and trapeze flyers (who tend to be healthy athletic people) like to hang up high from ropes ;-) so it seems a natural connection. Other areial arts would be taught too, perhaps the 'rope dancing' that some climbers do. The school where I learned to fly (www.trapezehigh.com) is a model for what I've got in mind here. Of course those who get 'hooked' on flying trapeze can join the club and come fly all they like.

Thanks!! for any feedback - this is as close as I can come to a marketing 'focus group', ; that, plus going out and talking with local climbers which I'm doing also. Here's hoping we'll fly together some day in the desert!

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Boston Rock ?

robespierre — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 23:11:19 GMT

I'm pulling up stakes from Oregon and moving to Boston just in time for the spring climbing season (although they're probably still ice climbing in New Hampshire). Does anyone have good beta on Boston area rock gyms or local crags?

posted in rockclimbing - 5 replies

Newbie Climber looking for partner/s PDX

hotmamaerin — Tue, 25 Dec 2007 06:01:16 GMT

Hola friends!
Newbie climber here looking for climbing partner/s in Portland, OR. I have a membership at Portland Rock Gym on NE 12th @ Couch. Let me know if ya wants to climb.
Gracias,
Erin

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Buildering Ad

Alyssum — Tue, 27 Nov 2007 01:51:08 GMT

This is my friend Dennis doing an advert for an Irish energy drink...he really did the climbing, though he had protection (which you can't see for all the takes)... He said it was really easy climbing (jug jug jug) but it was really difficult to keep the speed up for a week's worth of different takes of the same moves over and over and over.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_juQ1SEnI4

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Adhesive.

Michael — Wed, 10 Oct 2007 16:43:40 GMT

What can I use to adhere rocks to conrete so I can set up a gym in my basement?

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Reel Rock Film Tour. 7:30 p.m. 1065 K St. Ste. C, Arcata.

McManatee — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 20:01:11 GMT

Reel Rock Film Tour. 7:30 p.m. 1065 K St. Ste. C, Arcata. View Chris Sharma’s new climbing movie, King Lines, in the future home of the Far North Climbing Gym. $5 advance (available at Adventure’s Edge)/$8 door. 826-9558.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Clear oozing liquid

wasswasswass — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 23:09:37 GMT

A couple weeks ago, some clear oozing liquid was issuing forth from the left side of middle joint my right index finger. My finger did not hurt. The spot looked like a blister, but the fluid was thicker than normal blister juice. Today, after climbing yesterday and the day before, that joint is a little swollen, no pain but the joint feels thick.

Any thoughts?

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Gyms in Manhattan

wasswasswass — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 22:38:30 GMT

What gyms are there in Manhattan? Looked through google. Chelsea Piers looked huge. Couldn't find prices, guessing expensive. City climbers club looked good. $15 for a days pass is good. Cheaper than Mission Cliffs in SF. Anything in Brooklyn? I'll be staying Upper West Side - 150s.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

November in RaiLay, Thailand

Texashana — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 21:59:33 GMT

Anybody going to be in the neighbourhood

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

young kids and climbin

Heida — Thu, 31 Aug 2006 18:12:44 GMT

OK... so I'm an early education teacher and my interest in climbing "somehow" leaked out to my class room :) A couple of weeks ago one of the girls invited me to a "rock climb" up our loft in the class room. We of course made harnessess and ropes out of scarves and string and used our fire fighting helmets for safety. This was great fun for a couple of days but soon the kids asked about "real rock" . At this point my heart is singing... right? How am I going to make this work? ... So last night I went with a four of my school kids along with one set of parent who happen to climb to the gym!!!! It was incredible to see these guys climb. and interesting to see the different styles between the girl and the two boys (one didn't want to climb "with a rope"). I must say that I also learned a bunch from the girl. She was such a natural and used her legs better than any grownup I ever saw climbing. So... this morning we showed pictures of our adventure to our friends at school and I now I have plenty of climbing dates with 3-4 year olds :) We talked about how this was again not "real rock" but that there was "real rock" out there that we could practice on... if there was a word for heaven in an atheist world... I would be using it right now ... ahhhh! :)

posted in rockclimbing - 8 replies

Yoga

Ajutant — Sat, 18 Aug 2007 16:52:20 GMT

So I have been trying to pick up yoga as I was thinking it might be a great way work out for climbimg when I am traped in town. Has any one else tried this? How did it work out? Any one have any thoughts?

posted in rockclimbing - 5 replies

Springfield, Missouri

wasswasswass — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 22:50:40 GMT

Tomorrow I am flying to Springfield to do some teaching/performing at the University there. Does anyone know of a gym or crag nearby? Or anyone in that area looking for someone to climb with these next couple weeks?

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

a couple newbie questions

sayyida — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 17:25:57 GMT

hi all,

i've only been climbing a couple times in the past, but just recently got month memberships at a place with my mom, and had a couple newbie questions:

someone earlier mentioned giving your body time to heal in between sessions. as long as i don't push it too hard is one day ok? (i.e. we went climbing tues, and will be back on thurs.)

just out of personal curiousity, what 5.x rating do most beginners start out as? at what level would you consider someone past the "beginner" level?

finally, the only muscles i got sore were my gripping / forearm muscles. so i know i am probably not using my legs enough. any tips?

thanks so much!

natasha

posted in rockclimbing - 7 replies

Echo Cliffs

Ajutant — Wed, 18 Jul 2007 03:07:34 GMT

I am looking for a guide book for Echo Cliffs Does an one have any idea how to get one? If any one have a name for the publishers of said guide then I would just contact them.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Wanted: Climbing Partner (lead) in NorthEast/MA/NH

RUnAwAyLoLa — Fri, 08 Jun 2007 12:52:19 GMT

Hello!

I'm looking for someone to climb with who is more experienced than I; who wants to climb and perhaps teach me some. I got into climbing down in Maryland and now that I've moved back to Mass, I lost my climbing partner/teacher. I'm looking for someone who is really into it, serious, but also wants to have some fun and be friends. Right now I live in Mass 10 mins from the NH border... I want to be outside! (weekends r best but evening works for something local). Guy or girl, any age. Local crags and bouldering... perhaps some multi-pitch some day.
Hit me up!
-anna

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Looking for places to climb in the South

LARRY — Tue, 22 May 2007 09:44:58 GMT

I am originaly from the mountains of Washington where climbing is everywhere, but since moving to the south I have no clue where to go and have not had great luck finding anything. I am curiouse if anyone out there in the climbing community might be able to help.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

One of ya has to know!

Wed, 30 May 2007 03:34:22 GMT

Back in the 90's I watched a National Geographic Explorer show which featured a free solo climber who I recall being from Europe, maybe France, with long blong hair and silk like moves on the rock. I came in a minute late that day so never got his name even though I recorded on vhs the show, and since loaned that out never to see it again. I thoughy his name might have been something like Patrick Albert..but I could be waaaaaay off.
Does this climber or show ring a bell with anyone?

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Climbing Mistake (and what it has taught you)

treeofire — Thu, 24 May 2007 18:44:27 GMT

Just curious to hear about any mistake(s) you have made climbing and what it has taught you? My partner and I made a foolish mistake once, when I was repelling down a 40 ft. face and realized that one of my legs was not in my harness. I ran off into the woods beforehand to use the bathroom, rushed back to put my harness on and mistakenly left one of my legs out. I was wearing black spandex and my harness was black so neither my partner nor I noticed. It seems so obvious, right? Who would forget to put both their legs in their harness?

As soon as I dropped off the wall, I immediately knew something was wrong and swung hard to the right and hit the wall. I looked down and saw my left leg hanging there sin harness. How horrible. I sat there for a minute hanging and looking up at my partner, wondering how we could have made such a foolish mistake? I continued down and made it to the bottom safely with my harness cinched practically up to my chin. It's embarrassing to talk about, but I think that we can learn the most from our mistakes, just as long as we survive them.

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

Training on the ground

Mish — Wed, 23 May 2007 16:08:16 GMT

I've moving to the beach soon, and stoked as I may be I'll only be able to climb about 5 days a month. Does anyone have good suggestions on a basic training routine? I'll be able to run and will probably take some light wieghts or elastic bands with me. There's a chance I might buy a hangboard if I can get the money (I really need to build up contact strength!) and as far as swimming, the surf is very, very rough in Oaxaca so I don't think I'll do too much. I basically wnat to build up strength and endurance to get back up into the mountains in better shape than I left. Any suggestions are very,very much appreciated!

Peace!

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Looking for tribes in my area

Ajutant — Fri, 11 May 2007 01:59:58 GMT

Hey I am about an hour north of LA in Bakersfield and I was hoping to find a Rock Tribe for this area. Does any one here know of one?

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Reslinging cams

wasswasswass — Mon, 07 May 2007 16:48:50 GMT

Anyone know anything about getting new slings on cams? Can I send them into Black Diamond and have then reslung or is it DYI situation?

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Out Climbin?

Blu Dawg — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 19:17:15 GMT

Hey everyone! Ya'll must be doin alot of climbing.... there has been no action on this tribe for awhile. Lets try and get the ball rolling.

What have you been climbing,.... where,....? Do you have a recent favorite.

I went out the other day and did a boulder problem called Jump Chump, in Joshua Tree.(turtle rock area) There are no holds close to ground,... so you have to get a running start and jump for a giant rail to begin. They say it is V5 in the books, but it felt more mellow. Super fun! We found similar style problems in the area.

I have been in the boulder/solo mood for too long. I need to rope up on some longer routes. Come on Summer!

posted in rockclimbing - 16 replies

Yosemite anyone?

McManatee — Thu, 03 May 2007 06:18:30 GMT

Looking for partner for Yosemite. I will be there on the 7th till the 10th/11th. Have decent rack and 60m rope. Been climbing off and on for 6 years. Can follow up to 10, lead up to around 7, maybe more when I get back at it.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

A couple newbie questions..

adventurekim — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 17:37:59 GMT

So i'm brand new to climbing. Never done it before in my life but its something i've wanted to try. But looking at the websites for some of the climbing gyms in San Francisco is a little intimidating and there don't seem to be a whole lot of formal classes on it that i could find. Plus i don't understand a lot of the jargon involved. Does anyone know of a good place that teaches the very basics in San Francisco? Things i should know walking into the place for the first time? Anything i should do work out wise to prepare ahead of time (cuz i am fairly out of shape anyway. Hoping climbing will help be get fit)?

Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks.

posted in rockclimbing - 5 replies

Climbing in Yosemite

Andy — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 06:35:02 GMT

I'm headed up into the sierras this summer to work with kids with special needs and will have 3 days a week off, I enjoy hiking but would like to know about any places to climb up in the area, any people interested in getting together and climbing or helping me out, currently in Napa wondering if anyone knows about any area to climb in the area, Robert Louis Stevenson or Mount Diablo?

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Las Calanques (France)

elpicurriellu — Sun, 18 Mar 2007 14:14:20 GMT

I´m thinking on travelling to Las Calanques next eastern, we will spend five days climbing in the area.

Any recomendations for cheap acomodation?

Where I can find climbing topos? Are they avalaible in any website?

Thanks in advance

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Red Rock Randezous

neswstar - pc — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 17:43:56 GMT

Anyone going to Red rocks at the end of March? Ran into someone helping with the event while at Chicks with Pics auction. Was tring to encourage more women to come.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Feh

genghis_don — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 00:03:42 GMT

Didn't climb much during the holiday bustle (plus we homeschool the youngin and I'm PE guy, take her to Y to workout a couple times a week).

But anyway, when I went in to climb recently, I was disgusted to find that I was making the classic guy climber blunder. Sure I can claw/flail my way up a couple 5.9s or 10a but my form sucks so I'm shot after that.

I have *got* to get my form i order so I can climb better...

G

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Looking for climbing partner

Sami — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 19:41:18 GMT

Hello there,

I am looking for a climbing partner, someone who is willing to climb with me two days a week, preferably Wednesdays and Fridays. I go to Mission Cliffs and it would be great to find someone that I can climb with on regular basis. I have couple of friends that I climb with, but we seem to have conflict in schedules most of the time. I have a car so I would be willing to pick you up and drive you back home.

I am not an advanced climber, when I go constantly I get rally good and then I don’t go for a while and I loose it, I’m hoping to change that.

I am 30 yo, Middle Eastern, I live and work in San Francisco, male, gay, fun and outgoing person. I don’t care if you are a guy or a girl, straight or gay as long as I can trust you with my life :).

Please feel free to ask if you have any questions, hope to hear from you

Kind regards,

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Know a therapist who's also a climber?

genghis_don — Fri, 12 Jan 2007 20:19:25 GMT

I have a friend in another venue who's interested in talking to a therapist who's a climber about a "climbing as therapy" idea she's been rolling around.

If you know such a therapist, could you send me their contact info? Thanks!

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

newbie

Mish — Sat, 23 Dec 2006 06:15:49 GMT

Hey!
I just started climbing about a month ago and I've been training regularly at a gym. Now I'm travelling and cross-training by running, some biking and work with resistance bands. Anyone have some good training tips for a newbie? I really need to work on technique so any help there is very much appreciated. Peace!

posted in rockclimbing - 5 replies

J-Tree in December

wasswasswass — Fri, 06 Oct 2006 01:10:53 GMT

Dec 22nd-24th anyone game?

I have a decent rack,rope, lead 5.7 trad, haven't done sport in a while; will try anything toprope. Invited my usual suspects but they are all Xmasizing elsewhere...

posted in rockclimbing - 6 replies

Baja?

sflatchkey — Tue, 05 Dec 2006 03:33:17 GMT

I'm looking to climb in or around northern baja this december. Any suggestions, links or information you could pass on would be great. I know about parque nacional 1857, but haven't found any good online route guides for it.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Climbing in Sonoma

Lizzy — Sun, 29 Oct 2006 23:38:51 GMT

Moving to Sonoma county and wondering if there are any climbing gyms in the area. And also wondering about the local outdoor climbing.

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Halloween Party - Skull Hollow - Smith Rocks Oregon 10/28/06

neswstar - pc — Mon, 16 Oct 2006 23:22:34 GMT

2nd annual. pot luck, custom contest, kegs, crags, and campfire games. Message me if you want more details.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Spain

neswstar - pc — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 18:17:05 GMT

Okay - so I know it's been covered before - but I need more specfics. Trying to talk the BF into this. Want to vacation over there 2maybe 3 weeks. Interested in sport climbing ( so we do not have to bring much gear) lower to mid 5th class ( nothing over 5.9 - perfer 5.6). Also love architecture - especially the Morrocan influnced ( and of course Gaudi is a must see). And he is also talking renting tour bikes and spinning town to town for a week. Would love ideas - especailly time of year, and regions to investigate.

Mallorca sounds interesting - how is Sept or Oct? Is there anything out there other than climbing? Are there climbs out there easy enough for me to do?

Is there anythiing where we could combine the rock and ride? Any recommendations aon places to stay?

Thank you for sharing - I appreicate your time in helping me out.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Ice Climbing Festival PDX, OR 10/14

neswstar - pc — Thu, 05 Oct 2006 21:53:25 GMT

The 1st Annual Portland Ice Festival is planned for Saturday, 14 October, at Portland Rock Gym ( se 12th and Burnside) . The festival is a benefit for the Access Fund. The event starts at 7:00 PM.

Highlights:

· Intro to drytooling route – rock shoes only, no crampons

· Competition drytooling route – rock shoes only, no crampons

· Gear raffle

· Try out the latest demo gear

· Slideshow of local ice climbs

· Free adult malted beverages – while it lasts

Not bad for a town with no ice

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Vertical Workd bought my gym!

genghis_don — Sun, 10 Sep 2006 17:59:23 GMT

http://www.cascadecrags.com/

"The Vertical World has acquired Cascade Crags Climbing gym. Cascade Crags has a strong history of serving climbers and outdoor enthusiasts in the Everett area for many years and the Vertical World will continue this tradition. The Cascade Crags staff will continue to give you a high level of customer service, classes and training programs. We look forward to serving you as the Vertical World in Everett. Please call us for more information "

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

Climbing in Thailand

erioch — Wed, 27 Sep 2006 07:31:29 GMT

I'm going to Thailand Nov to Feb. Looking for climbing partners and/or any advice from people who haved climbed there. I climb 5.10 indoors/top-rope. Beginning trad leader/ no sport experience.
I will be in the Krabi and ChiangMai areas mostly.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Brazil - climbin near Rio??

Elecktratee — Mon, 25 Sep 2006 19:44:24 GMT

I may be taking a trip to Brazil. Has anyone been?

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

Difference between gym 5.x and outdoors 5.x

genghis_don — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 20:29:15 GMT

I'm wondering what relationship you all have noticed between gym route ratings and outdoor ratings. Is the feeling that outdoor routes with the same number are harder due to the more complex outdoor environment or pure climbability?

Just curious. Thankx, G

posted in rockclimbing - 7 replies

finger injury

jovino — Fri, 08 Sep 2006 01:33:18 GMT

So, a few weeks ago I think I sprained my middle finger on this nasty pinchy-crimpy route. It might have been a bit beyond my abilities, but I was having a good time trying to do the route. At some point, I must not have locked off properly and bent the first joint of my finger the wrong way.

I've taken three weeks off already, and last night I think I tapped it the wrong way because the pain brought tears to my eyes. About 1/2 hr later, no pain and it's feeling okay again. There's some tenderness on the side of my finger when I squeeze it, but only between the first and second joint. It's noticable when I make a ist, and I can't really bend it backwards like the other fingers.

I can only imagine I sprained it or worse, pulled a tendon. It's certainly not broken.

So, like... how do I recover it without taking too much time off of climbing? Should I tape the joint to reinforce it when I do climb? It's going to be a month off after this week, and I'm jonesing to get back at it.

posted in rockclimbing - 10 replies

Hey Oregonians

genghis_don — Thu, 10 Aug 2006 15:17:07 GMT

What's Smith Rock like for climbing?

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

Choice of belay device

genghis_don — Thu, 22 Jun 2006 21:05:56 GMT

I learned to belay using a Black Diamond ATC but a friend climbs at a gym that only allows Gri-gri devices. I'm wondering what you all prefer in terms of belay devices.

(Personally, I'd like to develop skill with both...)

posted in rockclimbing - 33 replies

Sensations of the Climbing Lifestyle

happiegrrrl — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 08:13:11 GMT

Laying in my tent, the rising sun taps me to morning consciousness. The light will be a guiding force through out the day. It reminds me to get an early start; that morning scents and sounds and filtered light are treasures to be cherished.

My camp neighbor knows this better than I; perhaps they used an alarm. Coffee is ready and I hear the tinkling of their metals as they sort gear, arranging their rack. One of the climber’s meditations.

Greetings to my arriving partner, a reminder of the tie that binds us, one our shared rope signifies spiritually and grounds us, holding fast to the 3rd dimension at its most base form. We are not alone.

Trails leading us on our path, rising as we approach our destination/starting point. The cliff base reminds me that, as in all life, there is no beginning; there is no end. The circle simply continues.

Another meditation - the rituals of preparation. Flake the rope, donning costume of harness, shoes and chalk bag. Perhaps we have our talismans – lucky number seven, the nut that held a fall, or some other such reminder that we participate in a life-giving rite that, at times, mercilessly culls. This practice centers us, brings us into the moment. The safety check is the confirmation; am I intent on living today. It can be that solemn.

If we are aware.

The leader takes their first step; belayer sends them off. The battle – of will, acceptance, consciousness and intent – has begun. Stay the course, acknowledge what is ahead, deal with it on the terms the contract offers. There may be writing between the lines. Better not ignore it; the chop is an unforgiving exit clause.

Sunlight follows us throughout the day. Reminds us we are weary. Tells us to refresh, or rest, or push on quickly to the next station – a shaded belay. Keeps watch over us, whispering its schedule lest we forget or ignore the perils waiting for the unprepared as nighttime falls. Moonlight climbing favors the adept, and is not the realm of the novitiate.

….I couldn’t sleep….. I love how waking like this brings romanticism forward in my mind and creativity abounds.

Still – there really IS so much, in climbing that is sensational; tactile, visceral, spiritual, essential - I didn’t even touch on the feelings of fear! Nor go for poop stories and the hijinx that cuases so much laughter at the campfires. Maybe others are interested in adding to this topic. What are some of the sensations you experience in this existence?

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

"Themes" of various climbing levels or level transitions

genghis_don — Wed, 02 Aug 2006 17:55:47 GMT

I was wondering what other climbers have noted in terms of themes common to various 5.x climbing levels (or maybe transitions between levels).

For example, I started out on 5.6/5.7 routes in my gym and noticed when doing 5.8 routes that the difference between 5.8 and 5.7 seemed to be that the holds were smaller and/or sparser, making footwork and efficiency more important. This also seeme dto hold for the Seattle REI Pinnacle, whose 5.8 route requires that you use your head and not flail around randomly.

I'm working on the transition to being a 5.9 route climber (it's still a struggle but feeling like it's almost in reach) and it seems like 5.9 routes tend to have a pretty hairy crux that I HAVE to plan ahead for, along with even sparser/smaller holds.

Does this mesh with what others have experienced or is this just another skill step?

Thanks, G

posted in rockclimbing - 6 replies

Lead climbing, here I come!

genghis_don — Fri, 28 Jul 2006 16:54:51 GMT

Yeeha!

I've been wanting to start heading more towards outdoor climbing but have only toproped so far. I'd thought my gym wanted 5.9 or 5.10 climbing before they'd let you take their lead class but asked again last night and was told that I could take the class, that they have a 5.6 lead route.

YAHOO!

posted in rockclimbing - 20 replies

climbing in Austria

wasswasswass — Wed, 16 Aug 2006 05:30:46 GMT

I am going to Imst, Austria and was wondering if anyone knew anything about climbing there. My girlfriend's stepsister is in the youth world cup there and we are chaperoning her there. Gym climbing will be aplenty but ifanyone knows any outdoor climbing resources, that would be good.

thanks

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

overhangs common on rreal ock??

Heida — Tue, 08 Aug 2006 18:17:54 GMT

So we have been talking about how the harder routes... 5.8 or higher... start to have some overhangs in the gym. What are peoples experiences outside? Are there that many overhangs on the rock that you climb? ? I'm not talking about the real hard routes... but 5.8 or 9 maybe... I wonder if there is a strategic plan to have overhangs on 5.8 or 5.9 routes in gyms, where they might not be common in nature... I have only seen 3 outside areas though so I don't know what others are seeing.

posted in rockclimbing - 13 replies

Who Here Road Trips?

happiegrrrl — Wed, 09 Aug 2006 17:58:06 GMT

This year hasn't been all that active for me - I did an end o March trip to Jtree, and probably will not have another trip til I go back there in December. Unless.......

I do miss the trips. In 2005, I got to the southeast several times, from February through May, and look forward to getting round there again. This year, I had wanted to get to CO about this time, and Yosemite in Sept, but forces have transpired against me. I desperately fantasize about tossing it all and just going. Subletting the apartment for a 25% profit to subsidize travel expense(illegal/risky/not cool but oh, so tempting!). Too chicken.

Even so, I have been to the Gunks every single weekend but for one that rained out. My van is AWOL, and causing stress, because I used to head up on Friday afternoons and stay til Monday afternoon. Now I am having to find rides each weekend for my dog and me. Amazingly, I have always found a way. But I have difficulty with the "lite" concept..... I miss having the stylee dirtbag lifestyle of a 4 inch foam platform in the van, mega cooler sytocked with fresh vegetables and ginger beer, and just about any necessity a person can wish for. My partenrs would alsway say "Oh crap - I forgot...(insert forgotten item)" and I would reach into some bin, pull a reasonable facsimile out - "Here, I have a spare!" Rabbit out of the hat magicianship!

Anyone heading to the N/East for climbing - you're welcome to crash at my place(NYC, in Chelsea) while in transit. And if I can make some days at the Gunks with you, I am happy to do that too.

And - I AM heading to JTree from 12/1 through about 12/10. For sure. Maybe some of you will be there too.

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

East Wall at Lover's Leap, Tahoe

wasswasswass — Tue, 18 Jul 2006 04:51:45 GMT

Anyone done that route? I was on it on Monday and I think I got lost on the last pitch. Went to the right looking for the 5.4 route to the right after Bushy Ledge, but it was very runout and mossy (seemed like no one had climbed it in a while) and not much pro. The climbing wasn't that hard just seemed a bit much for a 5.4.

Could also just be that i am CHICKEN! ha ha ha...

posted in rockclimbing - 10 replies

OK, so I'm a gear geek...

genghis_don — Thu, 13 Jul 2006 18:26:31 GMT

Tactical carabiners, rated at 72 kN:
http://www.omegapac.com/op_tactical_12steelstandardd.html

Er, friend of mine bought one...

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

is there a portland, OR rock climbing tribe?

mszigzag — Wed, 05 Oct 2005 05:26:17 GMT

Hey - looks like there are three rock climbing tribes (two fo which are inactive.) I wondered if maybe I missed a tribe for Portland ?

Any beta would be helpful ...thanks!

zz

posted in rockclimbing - 10 replies

Climbing progress

genghis_don — Wed, 21 Jun 2006 13:43:49 GMT

I just started climbing indoors about 6-8 weeks ago and am enjoying it a lot.

I've been wondering how long most people climb before taking an indoor/outdoor lead class?

posted in rockclimbing - 10 replies

A UK thing, climbing centers built into defunct churches

genghis_don — Mon, 17 Jul 2006 23:28:02 GMT

Here's a climbing gym in Manchester, UK built into an old church. I ran into a Scottish climbing center like that also.

http://www.manchesterclimbingcentre.com/

Interesting, could make for some HIGH climbs (and pretty when the stained glass windows remain too).

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Slacklining

genghis_don — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 20:44:06 GMT

OK, now *this* scares me:
http://www.rockclimbing.com/topic/115919

posted in rockclimbing - 9 replies

round and down-sloped footholds

CliftonGK1 — Fri, 14 Jul 2006 14:38:10 GMT

I was out at the local structure last night, picking my way through a problem and getting advice from the local gang, and found that I just can't seem to stick to the one foothold that many others are using. It's a rounded, sand-stone-ish lump that comes out of the wall for the top 1/3 of its dome. There's no "flat" to the top of it, but there's a good flat-ish patch on the near side of the reach for it where everyone else seems to stick like glue, yet I backslide clean off it like it was greased.
I can stick to it if I pull right up to it from the ground, but stretching for it I can't seem to stick. Is that one of those elusive "smear" type holds that I need to commit more weight to before shifting my hands?

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

To tape or not to tape... that is the question

CliftonGK1 — Wed, 12 Jul 2006 15:22:06 GMT

I've seen conflicting opinions on finger taping, and I'm wondering if the "tape vs. no tape" argument is just that: A bunch of opinions.

There's a group that says "Only outside"
There's a group that says "Only when I'm starting to get blisters/flappers"
There's a group that says "All the time to keep from getting injured"
There's a group (of psychos) that says "Never, and my battlescars are my pride"

I don't have callouses on my hands anymore, only on my feet (from backpacking.) I've noticed that I get a bit raw on the second joint of my index finger and middle finger, so is it considered "cheating" to tape up?
The local climbing structure I go to is outdoors, and has mostly natural holds (granite chunks and rock slabs embedded in a brick wall,) on the walls I'm working on.

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

New to climbing

CliftonGK1 — Thu, 06 Jul 2006 19:36:07 GMT

I've been a fairly confident Class 3 scrambler for a while, but I'm looking to expand my range of confidence by learning 5.x rock climbing. The question I've got is this:
What kind of limitations am I facing being that I'm a fairly big guy? I'm 6'6" and 250 pounds. I've been told that my height will be an advantage, but how much of a disadvantage will my size be to learning rock wall techniques?

posted in rockclimbing - 24 replies

Climbing wiki

genghis_don — Fri, 30 Jun 2006 16:56:57 GMT

Ran across a link to this climbing wiki page, when reading the rec.climbing Usenet group:
http://www.spadout.com/rock_climbing/wiki/index.php/Main_Page

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

LA Girl Climbers?

samantha — Mon, 03 Jan 2005 02:38:19 GMT

I just started climbing in Thailand and I really enjoyed it. I was hoping to meet some local gals that might want to team up and go climb. Anyone interested?

posted in rockclimbing - 8 replies

Why should I climb?

Artemisss — Tue, 21 Feb 2006 03:53:49 GMT

I went camping in Joshua Tree last weekend and decided I have to learn to climb. I'm a bit afraid of heights, but love to hike and scramble and I want to overcome the fear, get stronger, become more agile, face a challenge...

Do I have to have a huge amount of upper body strength to start out, first time? Does it sculpt your upper body?

Anyone know The Rock Gym in Long Beach, or Rockreation in West LA? Opinions/suggestions? Can you enjoy climbing classes without a partner?

Tell me your story of how you started to climb!

posted in rockclimbing - 9 replies

Injury

MunKyBoY — Wed, 08 Mar 2006 08:06:42 GMT

Just blew a ligament in my hand yesterday bouldering. Im very very sad. Last time I did this it took me 6 months to get back up to 5.11's. I was hoping to get a .12 by the end of summer but it doesn't look like that's going to happen. So Im bustin out the slackline! If anyone in the baltimore area wants to join me, hit me up. I've also just started spinning fire if theres any of yous out there looking to burn wit hsomeone. Just trying to think of some fun ways to pass the time while not on the rock. Man this sucks. Please everyone, warm up well. Love and light to all. Mike

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

climbing icebergs..

boyatomic — Sun, 09 Apr 2006 09:01:27 GMT

it's not rock, but check out the nyt article: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/08/sports/othersports/08outdoors.html?_r=1&oref=slogin and fun little national geographic video: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/adventure/media/aweberg_streaming.mov

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Women's scarpa climbing shoes - new! - for sale $40

Phoebe — Wed, 29 Mar 2006 02:37:31 GMT

These shoes are size 5 1/2, but could be worn by a size 6 or 7, depending on how tight you like your shoes to fit when climbing. They were worn maybe 3 or 3 times on a climbing wall some years ago and have been in the closet since. They are as good as new, and pretty too! How do I post a picture here? If I can figure it out,a n image will appear, if not email me and I can send you one.

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Time to start thinking about climbing

khoan — Fri, 24 Mar 2006 05:04:00 GMT

Hi all. I've been climbing regularly for 1.5 years now and I'm ready to take a serious turn. I can comfortably climb 10's outdoor TR. This year I would like to learn how to trad lead. Anyone in the bay area willing to take a novice out? I'm eager and very willing. Almost finshed with John Long's book and started collecting some gear. Looking forward to a great Spring and Summer!

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Korea is a country of mountains.

Alex — Mon, 27 Mar 2006 15:52:02 GMT

What is specifically interesting is bouldering is unknown here. My group of western friends and I are practically the only ones pulling on boulders. Therefore we are putting up first ascents right and left. Plus the crown of climbing here is below most of the mountains are buddhist temples. So you are climbing next or near beautiful temple grounds.

Pictures and forum is on http://www.koreaontherocks.com
Bouldering photo section: http://www.koreaontherocks.com/climbing/gallery.php?view=1&area_type=4

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

climbing "tribes"

boyatomic — Sun, 12 Mar 2006 19:54:21 GMT

You need to register for this link, but this article from the new york times describes different climbing tribes and "subtribes".
There's a bit of humor in it -- I don't know if it's typical of the NYT outdoors section.
http://www.nytimes.com/2006/03/11/sports/othersports/11outdoors.html?_r=1&oref=login

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

Good climbing over seas?

Sofia — Wed, 05 Oct 2005 15:46:46 GMT

I'm a noobie climber, who loves to travel. Are there any good places people have been abroad?

posted in rockclimbing - 11 replies

New Climbing Gym in Los Angeles!

heather — Tue, 27 Dec 2005 08:34:53 GMT

hey kids, a friend of mine just opened up a new gym in LA---just off the 210 in Arcadia. it's a great spot with competitive membership and day rates; child friendly (if you got 'em); and it's bouldering intensive (but with awesome route climbs, too!). check out the website:

www.arcadiarockclimbing.com

it's just a placeholder while we work out a sweet design, but all the basic info is there. best to all, as always, and hope to see you soon at the A.R.C!

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

LA Climb Spots

samantha — Tue, 27 Sep 2005 16:53:28 GMT

Hey, I'm looking for someone who knows where to climb in LA. I think I'm looking for more bouldering cause all I have at the moment is shoes. Someone mentioned stoney point. Does anyone know how to get to these spots?

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

New England rock climbing tribe!

jeau — Thu, 15 Dec 2005 17:18:50 GMT

Have you climbed Rumney Rocks? Do you want to? What are your other favorite climbing sites in New England? Join the Rumney Rocks tribe at Rumney.tribe.net!

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Red River Gorge Tribe

john-z — Tue, 15 Nov 2005 18:58:48 GMT

Don't mean to intrude, but I love the gorge and did not see a tribe for it. If you've been to the gorge, join in. so far it's just me.

http://tribes.tribe.net/redrivergorgekentucky

posted in rockclimbing - 8 replies

Looking for climbing partner in SF

Sami — Sun, 04 Dec 2005 03:53:36 GMT

hi there, I just started climbing a month ago at mission cliffs, I finished some of the classes, and was wondering if anybody interested in joining me for climbing, I'm still a beginner, but working on it.

Would love to find someone to go with me twice a week anytime after 6.00.

Thx
Sami

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Newbie climber

amberfe — Sat, 13 Aug 2005 18:28:02 GMT

I used to go the rock gym when I was a kid, but as I got older I got super girlie and thought rock climbing=dirty...

However, recently I started dating a climber. Last weekend we went bouldering at The Garden Of The Gods. It was amazing! A beautiful place and such a great climbing atmosphere.

He figured I was just there to watch him and his climbing buddy, but nope! I scaled a V0 without breaking a nail! *giggle* I'm still pretty girly I guess...

Now I know a V0 is really no biggie but for me it was, and it's more than enough encouragement to start climbing again.

Now my point,

Does anyone have any suggestions for getting into the climbing scene in Denver? I'm pretty basic, I remember somethings from when I was younger but label me a "beginner" and let me know where a good place to learn more about the sport is please?

posted in rockclimbing - 8 replies

new Eastern Sierra gatherings tribe!

FireFly — Thu, 01 Dec 2005 17:57:22 GMT

Hi all, Inviting you all to join a new tribe Eastern Sierra Burners, a place to chat, commune and gather under the stars of the Sierra Skies and play! Join our Tribe!!

oh yeah and come climbing!!!

tribes.tribe.net/easternsierraburners

check it out!

hope to see you at a few of these posted gatherings or out on the rocks..or in the springs!!

FireFly

aka Aly
Bishop, CA

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

Rock Climbing Therapy

Cody — Tue, 01 Nov 2005 16:58:19 GMT

To make a long story short my spine it totally screwed up from years of gymnastics mixed with a degenerative disease. I had been symptom free for years because I had maintained my muscle structure partially through rock climbing. Reciently however I had not been able to exercise or climb and I noticed I had lost alot of muscle. Just as I had been looking into a new gym and climbing again the pain hit. All my problems presented with pain and my scholiosis showed to be the most severe it had ever been. When I was a gymnast my doctor had told me that I had all but corrected the scholiosis with my muscle. My current doctor agrees and all but challenged me to get it back. I've been doing my own PT for about two weeks with therabands and PT balls and tonight I hit the rock gym for the first time in a while. My brother is going to keep me off anything higher than a 5.8. I'm goning to get that muscle structure back and rock climbing is going to be the way to do that.

Anyone else have a similar story to share? I plan to update this thread with my progress so that it may help others looking into "Rock therapy"

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

south korea bouldering

Alex — Mon, 21 Nov 2005 14:45:35 GMT

Bouldering in South Korea? Not popular.

the Koreans are into it at all even though there are tons of boulders

and the Westerners are also not into it.
except a few of us.

so I put together a South Korea bouldering blog so my bouldering buddies back in Seattle can enjoy it.

Here it is for you guys as well:

http://pulldown.blogspot.com

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

the sharp end of the rope

jovino — Mon, 31 Oct 2005 07:15:58 GMT

Tonight I took a lead climbing class over at Berkeley Ironworks. This is the first time I ever lead climbed, and the first time I ever fell more than five feet (on purpose). Letting go and knowing that I was going to fall that far was really unnerving, and I shouted out to the entire class, "I'm scared!" as I let go of the hold and plummeted downwards towards the floor. Before I was able to grasp what was happening it was over, and we were all laughing at me being afraid and not afraid to say so. I'm going back tomorrow for more.

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

retire this rope?

Calvert — Fri, 08 Jul 2005 02:08:59 GMT

so...

my family had a reunion this weekend, and we had a tug-of-war, and i used my old 11 mm, which i only use for top-roping. there were maybe 15 people on each side of the rope, and there was only one contest.

do i need to retire this rope? if so, can i get by with a 7 mm or 8 mm rope for top-roping very tame routes with no sharp rocks? (do they even make 8 mm?)

thanks.

posted in rockclimbing - 7 replies

coming back to climbing

cianna — Wed, 19 Oct 2005 15:14:02 GMT

...after about 3 years off (little accident in Yosemite, long recovery led to inertia). Went climbing outside on Monday (Mt. Diablo) and reveled in the feeling. Not too much blood left behind on the rock... Boy have I missed this!

posted in rockclimbing - 2 replies

Costa Blanca Climbing

kittik — Wed, 31 Aug 2005 21:40:45 GMT

Anyone done any climbing in Costa Blanca? I'm heading to Spain in February but have heard it will be quite cold to climb in the North. I'd prefer to stay away from the massive tourist zone but I'm not sure that's possible at that time of year...

I'll be climbing sport but want to stay away from the slabby stuff (apparently Sella is quite slabby?)

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

New to climbing

Andy — Tue, 06 Sep 2005 04:18:02 GMT

I want to learn how to climb, I live in Napa Ca and just want to know how to get started. Thanks for any info

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

kickass scramble wanted

kay3 — Wed, 17 Aug 2005 18:45:18 GMT

somewhat rockclimbing related .. any suggestions for a great, rugged scramble in the bay area with magnificent views ?? water views would be a huge plus! ocean/lake/waterfall ??

thanks!! :)

kim

posted in rockclimbing - 1 reply

oahu climbing?

kay3 — Mon, 15 Aug 2005 03:31:26 GMT

hey there .. any climbers on oahu? or anyone know of the best places to climb there? i'd imagine there'd be lots, maybe some on the north shore near kaena point .. ? on the south side near portlock / blow hole .. ? but i'm wondering how crumbly the rock is .. ? i'd always look at rocky parts of the mountains - there are tons!! - and thought how fun it must be to climb those!

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

climbing in china??

bella — Thu, 21 Jul 2005 04:09:03 GMT

Anyone been climbing anywhere in china? ....

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

cross post from another tribe:bouldering video

runout — Wed, 13 Jul 2005 17:29:46 GMT

http://tinyurl.com/ccgjy

hope you all likie...

posted in rockclimbing - 0 replies

need help finding a climbing partner

amberfe — Fri, 17 Jun 2005 04:53:43 GMT

I have a friend hitting up Hueco Tanks in the next few days and I'm trying to find resources to get him a climbing partner. Surprisingly the park site doesn't have any links...I've posted on thecrag.com too, but no response...

anyone looking to go there this weekend? or have a resource for me I'd really appriciate it.

Thanks ahead of time

posted in rockclimbing - 3 replies

Rock Climbing in Yosemite

Tue, 07 Jun 2005 19:10:46 GMT

Anybody planning on climbing in Yosemite this Summer? Anyone like to possibly connect on some guided climbs with Yosemite Mountaineering School?

Possible climbs like Royal Arches (maybe)... I'm not an advanced climber, but have done multi-pitch stuff before.

posted in rockclimbing - 6 replies

climb buddies @ m.cliffs?

kay3 — Sun, 12 Jun 2005 21:54:50 GMT

new membership @ mission cliffs & glad to find some climb buddies .. available to climb weekday evenings 6pm on or weekends .. new at it but i'll try to keep up! =)

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies

5.12! Well, not really, but...

Fontosaurus — Tue, 19 Apr 2005 19:43:14 GMT

Anyone ever had any success just futzing around and trying a route that's WAY beyond their ability?

I've sent as high as 5.10c, and while I can do these consistently, I'm not at the point where it was pretty.

Friday I was climbing, and there was a 5.12 route right next to the 5.8 I was going to send. So I decided to fuck around a bit and give the 5.12 a run.

I got through the first three moves! Then I got to the point, where there was about 45 feet of route left, and said, "Hmmm. I'll bet the rest of this is the crux move."

But still. Pretty stoked. Gives me hope that I can get into the 5.11 range by December.

posted in rockclimbing - 4 replies