Footwork is one of the most important parts of a climbers’ technique. 

Sure, the upper body leads the way and our eyes are drawn to the fingers as climbers search out the next hold, but 90% of the technique is really about footwork.

Simply put, our legs are stronger than our arms. The muscles are larger and if you master your footwork technique, you can really channel that strength and save your arms from a lot of aching!

This week, Indirock is offering its first Footwork Focus workshop where climbers can learn the fundamentals or develop their skills. To get us started, here are some of Indirock’s main pointers:

Silent feet

A foot placed intentionally and quietly will be placed more accurately. If you’re practising yoga or pilates you’ll know that focus is applied to all poses and movements in order to ensure you reach your full potential. The same can go for climbing. Being thoughtful and mindful with your footwork can lead you to find that “flow” on the wall. 

Be exact with foot placement 

Combined with silent feet, being exact with your foot placement will save you a lot of energy and strength. If you’re not exact, you’re going to put more pressure on your upper body meaning you’ll tire more easily. If you utilise these big leg muscles and use them properly you’ll be able to climb longer, improve quicker and tackle tougher problems along the way.

And this all leads onto… 

Trusting your feet.

If you’re intentional and precise, you’ll be more able to put faith into your feet. Trusting your feet and ability is the final piece in the puzzle of great footwork. As scary as it may feel sometimes, you’re actually less likely to slip on a foothold if you put all your weight onto your foot! Push yourself to try different holds and challenge your feet to withstand the weight and angles.

In our Footwork Focus workshop this week, we’re practicing the above principles while also exploring techniques such as smearing, toe hooks, heel hooks, edging, as well as body positioning and much more.

Indirock is located in the Victoria Centre, Southend-on-sea, and we have a range of workshops and courses for all abilities, ages and ambitions. Check out what’s on offer here.