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Colorado Wildflower Guide – Spring

If you are excited about the coming of spring, you’ll surely want to know how to ring in the season. One great way is to get out and enjoy the blooming Colorado wildflowers. There are so many amazing colors that you can find on the side of hiking trails near Colorado Springs. We are going to go over some of Colorado’s most common wildflowers, what they look like, and where to find them. Wildflower identification can be difficult, but it makes for a great pastime as you enjoy the many hiking trails near Colorado Springs.

Colorado Blue Columbine

We have to start with the Colorado Blue Columbine. This wildflower is ubiquitous around the state, probably why it is the official state flower of Colorado. You may also have heard it called the Rocky Mountain Columbine for this reason. The name ‘blue’ can also be a misnomer, however, as the flowers turn to all white as the plant ages.
You can identify the Colorado Columbine by its star shape. It has five smaller white petals inside and five blue pointed petals underneath that give it that iconic overall star outline. It has a yellow center and can be found in alpine, subalpine, and wooded areas all over the state. Once you have more details on wildflower identification, you can hit the road in search of it all summer long. The best places to head would be Garden of the Gods Park, North Cheyenne Cañon Park, Cheyenne Mountain State Park, or Rocky Mountain National Park.


Bluebells

Continuing with blue wildflowers, the Bluebell is a beautiful Colorado wildflower that can be found in meadows and wooded areas and around streams. They grow in large clusters around the banks of streams, particularly out west in the San Juan Mountains. Wildflower identification for these is pretty straightforward, as they look like small bells hanging down from their stems. 

There are multiple variations, with some known as “Short Style” and others that are “Tall.” Bluebells tend to grow low to the ground and will often be blue, light blue, white, or pink. You can find these attractive Colorado wildflowers on a hike near Pikes Peak or within the Garden of the Gods Park. Both locations, especially Pikes Peak, are beautiful colorful places year-round, with wildflowers in the spring and fall colors in autumn. One excellent place to discover Bluebells would be a day trip to Bluebell Mesa outside of Boulder. They tend to blossom in spring and stick around through summer, making them a long-lasting option for Colorado wildflower spotting throughout a good portion of the year.

Silvery Lupine

One personal favorite in this same color family is the Silvery Lupine. This Colorado wildflower is popular in open meadows and foothills, and you will be able to identify it by its tall blooms that grow out from the leafy bush. Its stems can reach up to three feet, and the compound leaves grow in sets of seven. The blooms of Silvery Lupine are beautiful and impossible to miss or misidentify. 

It is possible to see the Silvery Lupine with more of a purple hue or a lighter, white tinge. They are in bloom all spring and summer long, giving you plenty of time to see them on the trail. They are very popular on the slopes of the Rockies and up north near Breckenridge. 

Indian Paintbrush

If you are looking to get into Colorado wildflowers, this is one you definitely need to know. This showy plant has unmistakable spiky clusters of vivid colors. You are most likely to see them in red or orange, and the shape makes it look like a paintbrush that has been dipped in paint. Because it creates hybrid plants with other wildflowers very easily, it is found in hundreds of different varieties and colors. 

The Indian Paintbrush is best viewed in the summer, and it is easy to find across Colorado and the Western United States in general. One variety, the Desert Paintbrush, is the state flower of Wyoming. Two great places to find this Colorado wildflower are Red Rock Canyon Open Space and Pikes Peak.

Rocky Mountain Bee Plant

This unique Colorado wildflower is another of my favorites. It grows up to four feet tall before forming beautiful pink flower clusters. Each cluster has four flowers and six very long stamens to attract insects. The blooms can appear almost spherical depending on how they bloom. It is a popular plant among insects, including bees, hence the name. Attracting bees and many other pollinators means it helps pollinate nearby flowers, too. One downside is that it is a great attractor by having an unpleasant smell. For this reason, it is also sometimes called stinkweed. 

Wildflower identification of this plant depends on how it blooms between spring and late summer. Studies have found that it is actually closely related to the Mustard plant. To find the Rocky Mountain Bee Plant, you should head to Red Rock Canyon Open Space. The plant also grows often on roadsides and other sunny, open areas.

Fireweed

The Fireweed plant is a vibrant pink plant that grows up to six feet tall. This plant is most visible during summer and fall, and you can learn to identify it based on its four petals and white stamens. The plant grows easily in open spaces and is called Fireweed for its ability to grow quickly after a wildfire. It can also grow after landslides, avalanches, or other natural disasters, and its leaves were used by many native communities to make tea. Fireweed can survive in subalpine elevations, meaning that it is often spotted on hiking trails throughout the state. Some good places to find Fireweed include Indian Peaks Wilderness and Pikes Peak.

There are many great hikes to discover if you want to venture to an area where you can see wildflowers near Colorado Springs. There are even more opportunities for wildflower identification if you are willing to drive a bit. For a nearby day trip, consider surrounding areas like Rocky Mountain, San Juan Mountains, and Crested Butte, which is known as the Wildflower Capital of Colorado. 

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Hybrid vs Road Bikes: Which to Choose

Are you looking to get into biking in Colorado and not sure where to start? There are a lot of options to consider when you are in the market to buy your first bike. It can be hard to choose whether you want a hybrid or road bike, especially if you are not sure about the differences between them. In this article, we will break down all the important distinctions and features of both so you can make an informed decision about which is right for you.

What are Road and Hybrid Bikes for?

Before we get into the differences between road vs hybrid bikes, it is helpful to remember the goals of each. As the name implies, a road bike is used for cycling on paved roads. They tend to be sleek and lightweight, great for professional cyclists, commuters, and cycling hobbyists. If you are getting a bike for your daily commute to work or weekend rides down paved bike trails, a road bike might be right for you. 

When you hear the name hybrid bike, you are probably wondering, a hybrid of what? It is a hybrid between a road and a mountain bike, giving you some of the capabilities of a mountain bike without quite so much extra weight. Biking in Colorado offers so many opportunities to off-road, from bike paths to mountain bike courses. If you have any interest in checking out the sport of mountain biking, a hybrid bike might be your best bet. While you can certainly ride a hybrid bike around the city, you will just find that your commute takes a bit more effort than it would with a road bike. The fourth type of bike to consider is electric bikes or e-bikes, which give you extra power and can help with long commutes or tough ascents.

Photo by Alex Diffor on Unsplash

The Main Differences between Road and Hybrid Bikes

Unless you know what to look for, it is easy to confuse road and hybrid bikes. Both have similar shapes and roughly the same features. One of the most obvious differences is the tires. Where road bikes have tires that are narrow and slim, hybrid bikes have wider tires. In order to allow for off-roading, hybrid bikes have bigger tires that are puncture resistant and more durable against biking over gravel and dirt. The extra width also provides added stability and grip on potentially slippery conditions.

The other main difference you can spot between road vs. hybrid bikes is the position and shape of the handlebars. Road bikes have drop handlebars that curve down and allow the rider to adopt a more aerodynamic riding position. This more crouched body position can be harder to get used to as a beginner cyclist, but drop handlebars have some other benefits, too. They tend to be more narrow, thus fitting into smaller gaps in traffic. They also allow for three distinct hand positions, which help long-distance cyclists stay comfortable and adapt to the cycling conditions. 

Hybrid bikes, on the other hand, have the same flat handlebars as mountain bikes. These flat handlebars keep the rider upright for better stability and visibility on the rough terrain of mountain biking trails in Colorado. While this style is easier for beginners, it lacks versatility and proper positioning for faster rides.

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Factors to Consider with Hybrid vs. Road Bikes

Comfort of Road vs. Hybrid Bikes

Road bikes have a lot of perks, but they can also take a bit of getting used to. Because of the more crouched posture, road bikes are initially tough on the rider’s back and arms. The most comfortable and unstressed riding opportunity definitely comes from a hybrid bike. The trade-off to this is that road bikes have multiple positions, which you can switch between on a longer ride. This helps prevent stiffness and makes it easier for long-distance cyclists to adapt to a steep uphill slope or be aerodynamic to preserve speed.

Weight Differences between Hybrid and Road Bikes

Hybrid bikes are always heavier than road bikes, and this can be an important factor to you. Because of the bigger tires and a few more gear options, hybrid bikes tend to weigh around five to ten pounds more than road bikes. Road bikes are also usually carbon fiber, which is lighter but more expensive, while hybrid bikes opt for durability and the stability of added weight. If you have to haul your bike up a flight of stairs or are looking for the easiest commute to work, this difference might be a key point in favor of road bikes. Bike weights can also vary by brand and model. If your bike has added features, for example, that will mean added weight. If you are really concerned about minimizing weight, a road bike should be under twenty pounds.

Speed Potential of Road Bikes vs. Hybrid Bikes

The difference in speed possible between hybrid and road bikes is significant. This is from a lot of factors, including weight and riding position. If you are hoping to get involved in some  Colorado Springs cycling events or just want to shave a few minutes off your commute, a road bike is the way to go. You will find that a road bike is much more efficient in terms of converting your work into speed. With less weight and a more aerodynamic posture, you can make every rotation of the pedal worth your effort.

Road v.s Hybrid Bikes and Riding Terrain

If you have any interest in off-roading, you will need to opt for a hybrid bike. This would make your decision very easy, as it is not possible to go off-road with a road bike. It is, in fact, dangerous. Not only will you likely pop a tire, but road bikes are not heavy or stable enough to manage uneven terrain. If you have ever accidentally gone off-road on a road bike, you know it is not safe or comfortable. You need the wider tires, sturdier frame, and more upright posture of a hybrid or mountain bike to safely enjoy unpaved bike trails. If you are not sure if you would enjoy mountain biking or trail biking, consider trying a guided bike tour where you can hop on a mountain bike and see if cycling through nature appeals to you.

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Price Difference of Road vs. Hybrid Bikes

You may be surprised to find that road bikes can be more expensive than hybrid bikes. You can certainly find either at any price point, from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Because road bikes prioritize being lightweight, they are often made of carbon fiber which is lighter and more expensive than aluminum or steel frames often found on hybrid and mountain bikes. It would be best to avoid spending too much if this is your first foray into cycling in Colorado. That way, you can ride for a year, better understand what you personally need from your bike, and upgrade to a more long-term investment bike. 

Maintenance Needs of Road vs. Hybrid Bikes

As noted above, road bikes are often made with a carbon fiber body. This extra expense should be considered as a potential recurring expense, as replacement parts and maintenance can be more. On the other hand, road bikes tend to have a slightly more simple construction, offering fewer gear shifts, for example, than hybrid bikes. These extra mechanics on hybrid and mountain bikes translate to more care in terms of bike maintenance and potential added expenses. In this consideration, the specific brand and model of bike will need to be evaluated.

Final Thoughts

If this is your first bike since you were a kid, you may want to start with something less expensive to get a feel for it. While the riding is, well, just like riding a bike, you may find that you don’t like the handlebars of a road bike or the weight of a hybrid bike. You can rent a hybrid bike for the day or borrow a friend’s bike to help you make your decision. Once you know better what you are looking for, you can invest in a quality bike that will serve your needs. Please make sure to always wear a helmet and obey traffic laws. Happy riding!

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How to Train for Hiking and Backpacking

Many beginner hikers make the easy mistake of under-preparing for their journey. I have certainly heard, “If I can walk, I can hike.” But just going for walks around the neighborhood is not the best way to train for hiking. Long-distance hikes, multi-day hikes, and elevation hikes require a more focused training schedule.

If you are coming to Colorado Springs for a hiking vacation and wondering what you need to do to get ready, we’ve got you covered. We will go over all the essentials of how to train for backpacking – including cardio, strength, and flexibility training – so you can get the most out of your trip. Whether you are planning a solo adventure or scheduling a guided hike, this workout regimen will have you in tip-top shape for whatever part of the great outdoors you will conquer. 

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Endurance-Focused Cardio Training for Backpacking

At nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, Colorado Springs is even higher than Denver, which is commonly called the Mile High City for its 5,280-foot elevation. What this means for visiting backpackers is that you need to train for cardio even more. Depending on where you are coming from, your body will not be used to the lessened amount of oxygen in the air at this elevation.

Cardio exercises train your body to use oxygen more efficiently, which is key for hiking at elevation. This can help you prevent muscle cramps, keep you from fatiguing early, and even combat the symptoms of altitude sickness. The best way to train for this is by going on some day hikes near you and working up to higher elevations and longer mileage.

Endurance training for multi-day backpacking in Colorado Springs requires at least an hour of steady-state cardio every other day. Steady-state cardio involves breaking a sweat and maintaining the exercise with minimal rest. You can choose activities that suit you best while prioritizing low-impact exercise. Endurance training in the form of rowing, swimming, or biking will help protect your joints from overuse while giving your lungs the workout they need.

Strength Training for Multi-Day Hikes

Many people do not consider strength training a key part of preparing for backpacking, but it is. If your muscles are not strong enough for the pack you are carrying or the steep incline you are ascending, you will surely get burnt out more quickly. Weight training is a great way to build muscle endurance for multi-day backpacking trips. 

There are two main groups to consider for strength training. The first is your legs for hiking, and the second is your core and upper body for carrying your backpack. Great lower body exercises will focus on stability for your ankles, knees, and hips. You can strengthen your feet with arch workouts like towel scrunches, your lower legs with heel raises, and your upper legs with squats and lunges. Don’t forget to include hip exercises like hip thrusts and deadlifts to build stability in your lower core. You can find more exercises in our guide on how to train to hike a Colorado Fourteener.

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Core Exercises for Pack Training

The second area to focus on for strength training is the upper body. When you go on your first multi-day backpacking trip, you will be surprised at the heft of your pack. Backpackers have to carry a lot of weight, including shelter, food, supplies, and more. Luckily, the pack will get lighter as you eat through your supplies. 

To properly prepare for a backpacking journey, you should strengthen your core, shoulders, neck, and back muscles. Lower back exercises are important for preventing injury when carrying heavy loads. You can lie flat on your stomach and raise one arm and the opposite leg. Repeat this exercise from a tabletop position, resting on your hands and knees. Core strengthening like ab workouts and planks are also essential for building upper body stability.

The best way to prepare to carry a pack is, simply, to carry one. Pack training involves venturing out on your training hikes with a pack stuffed full of weight. Depending on the length of your multi-day backpacking trip, your pack could be twenty to forty pounds. Keep in mind that it is not recommended to carry a pack of more than twenty percent of your body weight. With this in mind, you can load your backpack with some heavy household items and practice hiking with it. If you are training by yourself, be sure to follow the best practices for staying safe when hiking alone.

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Flexibility Training for Hiking

The final, and arguably most important, part of backpacking training is stretching. While you should alternate cardio and strength training days, you should stretch daily after all of your workouts. You should also begin your workouts with some dynamic stretches but only after you have warmed up for five to ten minutes.

When working on flexibility for backpacking, it is important to focus on the legs and back. You will want to ensure that your legs stay as flexible as possible through miles and miles of hiking. Flexibility training is important for preventing joint injury. This is because when your muscles are overly tight, they pull on your joints and cause stress. Keeping your legs loose will protect your knees and ankles from feeling worn out on your hike.

In addition to the basic toe touches, you will want to stretch your calves, hamstrings, quads, IT bands, and hip flexors. Each stretch should last twenty seconds with a continual effort to reach your limit (without injuring yourself). If you have any previous injuries, be sure to give those areas some extra attention. Any foot pain or arch tightness will require you to stretch and strengthen in order to prepare for the innumerable steps you will take on your backpacking trip.

Final Thoughts

Our beautiful state of Colorful Colorado is one of the most scenic places to take a multi-day backpacking trip. Every beginner can learn how to train for hiking and prepare themselves for this adventure of a lifetime. With a couple of months of dedicated training, you will be ready to take on the elevation and mileage of a multi-day hike in Colorado. Happy hiking!

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Stretches for Rock Climbing

Are you getting into rock climbing and want to make sure your body is ready? Maybe you are realizing that a lack of flexibility can impact you on the wall. You may not expect it, but there are specific stretches for climbing, and we’ll go over them here. Rock climbing uses a lot of muscles you may not use regularly, especially in the forearms, wrists, hands, and fingers. 

It is normal for beginner rock climbers to get burned out early, or as we say “pumped.” Just like any physical activity, it is important to stretch beforehand to prevent injury. Flexibility training is also a great way to improve performance in exercise, build endurance, and expand your abilities. So without further ado, let’s get into the essential rock climbing stretches you should be doing before and after your workouts.

Before You Stretch

Before we get started, it is important you know not to stretch cold. Stretching is meant to length your muscles by comfortably finding and challenging your limits. If your muscles are cold from sitting around, stretching can actually cause damage like microtears. For this reason, you should always warm up for at least five minutes before stretching. 

Good warm ups include a light jog, jumping jacks, or an easy climbing route that is well below your grade level. Once you are feeling warmed up, the best pre-workout stretches are dynamic ones. As opposed to stationary, static stretches, you can move through positions when doing dynamic stretches. These will ensure your muscles are loose and amenable to odd positions and movements. 

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Pre-workout Dynamic Stretches 

Dynamic climbing stretches are a good way to loosen the joints and lengthen your muscles through their comfortable range. It is most important to work on the shoulders and arms, spine, and hips. You can start with knee pull ups, touching your toes, torso rotation, side stretches, and neck stretches. Once your back is open, focus on stretching the joints to prepare for your climbing workout.

One of my favorite stretches is joint circles. I say “joint” because you can and should do this with your shoulders, wrists, hips, and ankles. Shoulder circles, both backward and forward, are key for warming up the shoulder muscles and rotator cuffs. These are common injuries among rock climbers, so make sure to give your shoulders the attention they need. 

Opening and closing your hips is another exercise key for rock climbing flexibility. Make big circles with your knees going ten times in each direction. Taking little steps between circles is a good way to reset your hips and make the stretch the most effective. This will ensure you can maneuver on the wall into whatever position is needed to reach the holds. A key beginner rock climbing technique is about hip rotation, so make sure your body is prepared for the movements.

Finally, give some extra focus to your forearms, wrists, hands, and fingers. You will find these muscles easily exhausted when you first start climbing. Begin by shaking everything out, reaching for the ceiling, and wiggling your fingers. You can stretch by gently pulling your fingers back, bending your wrists forward, and pushing your hands together with raised elbows.

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Post-workout Static Recovery Stretches

If you feel any tightness or pain, post-workout climbing stretches are absolutely essential. Static stretches focus on holding an elongated position for 20-30 seconds. As your muscles cool off and switch into recovery mode, it is important they do not tighten up. These static stretches for climbing will help repair muscles, improve flexibility, and prevent injury.

Many of these static stretches will be done on the ground, so it is best to grab a yoga mat for your post-workout cool down. I like to incorporate hatha yoga in my recovery stretching, as many of the positions are restful and provide the needed muscle elongation. I also tend to work in reverse from my pre-workout stretch, starting with the arms, then the joints, then the spine.

Start in a tabletop position, and gently move your weight over your hands to get a nice forearm stretch. You can then switch this by resting on your knuckles and stretching the backs of your wrists. Certain rock climbing holds, like pinches, really burn out the forearms so make sure to stretch well during and after these climbs. Next, feed an arm under the other and rest on your shoulder for a great back and shoulder stretch. 

Rocking backwards to sit on your heels, you can lengthen the spine to get a deep stretch and walk your fingers to the right and left to stretch your sides. Moving up into downward dog, take time to stretch your hamstrings, calves, and feet. Many people overlook stretching the arches of the feet, but you should do these if they are sore after wearing climbing shoes. Finally, transition into a cobra pose to stretch your chest and abs. The most important element of a post-workout stretch is a minute of rest to sit and listen to your body. If you have any other areas of tension, you should stretch both that area directly and the surrounding muscles and joints. 

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Other Tips for Climbing Recovery

You will find that stretching once after a climb is not enough. If you are new to climbing, or go out on a full day climbing tour, you will likely be tight the next day or two. You will need to continue doing these climbing stretches, especially forearm ones, for a couple days as you recover. Keep shaking out the arms and flicking your fingers to release the tightness in your joints. 

Aside from stretches for rock climbing, the best thing you can do for your post-workout recovery is drink plenty of water. This is true for any physical activity, but especially climbing. Being well hydrated helps with injury recovery and muscle healing. On top of this, the tendons in your arms (and whole body) are very sensitive to changes in water and tighten up when dehydrated. If you are feeling tendonitis in your elbows, shoulders, or wrists after climbing, staying well hydrated will help.

With ten minutes of thoughtful stretching before and after climbing, you can set yourself up for a better workout and a safer recovery. Over time, you will find these stretches for climbing help you both on and off the wall. 

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How To Snowshoe

Snowshoeing is a fun winter sport with a long history, invented thousands of years ago and used by the humans that migrated across the Bering Land Bridge to North America. It is an excellent way to exercise and enjoy the great outdoors during the winter when snow is on the ground. If you are looking to try winter hiking, you are in the right place. We will go over how to snowshoe, what gear is needed, and where to snowshoe near Colorado Springs.

What Is Snowshoeing?

Snowshoes are specialized gear with oversized footprints to allow users to walk over snow rather than through it. By increasing the surface area and distributing weight, snowshoes make it possible to enjoy hiking year-round, even when your favorite trail is buried beneath a foot of fresh powder.

There are different types of snowshoes depending on the terrain you plan to hike. In some styles, the heel lifts in order to allow you to walk up steep slopes comfortably. Another key feature is crampons, which provide more traction for steep and icy areas. Depending on your weight, you may need larger snowshoes to get the necessary floatation (to keep you on the snow’s surface). This is why snowshoes are a personalized, specialized piece of gear.

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What Gear Do You Need to Snowshoe?

In addition to the proper snowshoes, there are a few other pieces of gear you will need for your first snowshoeing adventure. As with all winter hiking, you will need solid hiking boots. They should be warm and waterproof. Insulated boots are a great way to stay warm, but having them requires the right socks, too. Because insulated and waterproof boots are not breathable, you will need moisture-wicking wool socks to avoid cold, sweaty feet. 

The rest of your winter clothing should be similarly moisture-wicking in the base layers and insulating in mid-layers. Depending on the conditions, you may need an outer shell that is wind and waterproof to stand up to the elements. These are the essentials of what to wear when hiking in Colorado, and these proper layers will keep you warm and safe on your snowshoeing trip. 

When you go to buy or rent snowshoes, you should also get snowshoeing poles. If you already have trekking poles, you just need to add baskets. Baskets are the little plastic circles at the bottom of the poles to keep them from sinking too far down into the snow. Snowshoeing poles are extremely helpful for providing stability on the trail. Especially when traversing slippery conditions or going up or down a slope, poles will keep you balanced and upright and help distribute weight off your knees.

Regarding the gear you will need to pack, you should always bring the Ten Essentials on any trip into the wilderness, especially water, snacks, a first aid kit, and an emergency shelter. When hiking in the winter, there is one more thing: Avalanche safety gear, like a probe, beacon, or airbag, is the final addition to your pack for winter hiking safety.

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Basic Snowshoeing Techniques

Let’s go over the basics of how to snowshoe on any given terrain. To avoid stepping on the frames of your snowshoes, you need to adopt a wider walking stance. This will surely cause initial discomfort initially, and you will feel your hips on your first winter hike, but it will improve. 

When snowshoeing uphill in powder, you want to kick your foot into the snow in order to create a level surface to stand on. If the snow is harder, you will skip this step and rely solely on the friction from your crampons. The second part of any step, bringing your foot down, is important either way. When you step down, you need to plant your foot hard to make sure the crampons grip instead of slip. 

When snowshoeing downhill, you should start by elongating your poles if they are adjustable. You will want them out in front of you so you can balance and avoid slipping. You will need to tilt your weight back slightly. If you feel yourself start to slip, you can simply sit down and reset.

Lastly, you will likely find yourself at some point walking sideways across a slope. “Side-hilling” requires a specific technique similar to snowshoeing uphill. You need to push your snowshoe into the side of the mountain in order to create a level step for yourself. In order to keep your balance, be sure to keep your weight on the uphill side of your snowshoe.

Where to Get Started Snowshoeing near Colorado Springs

There are tons of options for snowshoers looking to hit up a trail in Colorado. An easy rule of thumb is that you generally can snowshoe anywhere you can hike. Popular hiking trails near Colorado Springs stay open year-round to accommodate winter enthusiasts like snowshoers. 

State and national parks and forests are a great choice as their well-manicured trails will be easy to follow even when hidden under snow. The beautiful and extensive Rocky Mountain National Park has ranger-led snowshoe walks throughout the winter to get you started on how to snowshoe, including basic technique and safety.

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Proper Snowshoeing Etiquette

Wherever you end up, it is important to keep in mind that you will not be alone on the trail. Many trails might be open to cross-country skiers or even snowmobilers. If you do find yourself on a mixed-use trail, here are a few etiquette tips.

When snowshoeing or winter hiking generally, it is nice to stay in a single file line on the outskirts of the trail or path. This is helpful for cross-country skiers who prefer a smooth surface and likely pay a higher usage fee to have the trails groomed. You should also give right of way to cross-country skiers as it is harder for them to navigate around you than for you to simply step to the side. 

It is best to avoid snowshoeing on routes with snowmobiles. If you find yourself on one by accident, make sure to give them the right of way. You should keep your eyes and ears open and your head up. Listen for the sounds of approaching vehicles and be aware of your surroundings. You should step out of the way, but try to remain visible. This way, both you and the driver can see each other and cross paths safely.

Final Thoughts

Snowshoeing is a rewarding winter activity that not enough people try. It is a great workout, a fun way to get into nature in the snowy months, and it provides beautiful sights of unspoiled winter wonderlands. With the right gear and a little lesson on how to snowshoe, you can enjoy a safe and fun adventure outdoors.

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Cycling Events Near Colorado Springs – Spring/Summer 2023

As the weather warms up again, you are going to be looking for new and exciting ways to get outside. For avid cyclists and those new to biking, there are plenty of upcoming Colorado cycling events to get you back in the saddle. Check out some of the most interesting bike events in Colorado this spring and summer of 2023, and get started training for a bike tour today.

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Front Range Cycling Classic 

When: Sunday, March 19, 2023

Where: Parking Lot, Pinion Dr, Air Force Academy, CO 80840

More Information Here

Hosted by the US Air Force Academy Falcons Cycling Team, this bike race event is a 13.6 mile hilly ride around the Academy’s training complex in northwest Colorado Springs. In addition to collegiate time trials, the road race is open to everyone, with cash prizes for riders. The field is limited every year to 75 riders, so make sure you stay on top of this event and register as soon as you can.

Groove Fountain Festival

When: Saturday, April 15 & Sunday, April 16, 2023

Where: Kirk Hanna Park, 17050 S Peyton Hwy, Colorado Springs, CO 80928

Register Here

Located in the southeast district of Hanover, this cycling event is now in its third year. The time trial is on Saturday the 15th, and the road race is on Sunday the 16th. The two race options are 39 or 78 miles on a large loop that takes you between the park and Fountain, Colorado. The elevation gain is minimal, around 300 feet, making this a great opportunity for folks looking for a less rigorous ride.

Tour de Victory

When: Saturday, May 20, 2023

Where: YMCA of Northern Colorado, 2800 Dagny Way, Lafayette, CO 80026

Register Here

The Tour de Victory bike event is a bit of a drive from Colorado Springs, but it is a very popular Colorado cycling event and for good reason. This non-competitive race is a fundraising event for Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson’s. Riders can choose between four courses, a 20k, a 50k, a 100k, and a Gravel Course that is about 87 kilometers. The routes travel west of Lafayette, with the 100k going all the way up to Longmont. The 20k reaches about 400 feet of elevation, and the 100k over 2,000. These fun cycling events are for a good cause, and riders with Parkinson’s get free registration. 

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Race the Sun

When: Saturday, June 4, 2023

Where: 1375 W Plum Creek Pkwy, Castle Rock, CO 80109

Registration Opens February 1

This 6.5 mile mountain biking course is described as playful and flowy. It offers 90% singletrack and has 647 feet elevation gain. The course travels counterclockwise around Philip S. Miller Park in Castle Rock, which is less than an hour’s drive from downtown Colorado Springs. The race goes from 7 am to 7 pm, and walk-on registration is available the day before and early that morning. Elephant Rock is a popular destination for cyclists, and you will surely enjoy checking it out during this rewarding mountain biking event. 

719 Ride

When: Saturday, July 15, 2023

Where: Chipeta Elementary School, 2340 Ramsgate Terrace, Colorado Springs, CO 80919

Registration Opens March 12

Now in its eighth year, the 719 Ride is a locally organized road race that is a crowd favorite and one of the best Colorado cycling events. The “Course that Cannot Be Defeated” is a celebration of the elevation around Colorado Springs. You are invited to try to complete five laps of the course, for a total of 71.9 miles and 9,190 feet of elevation gain. For the same registration fee, however, you can do as many (or as few) laps as you wish. The top tier at a punishing 14 laps is called the Himalayan 719 as it covers the 25,700 feet elevation gain that it would take to reach a Himalayan peak. This is a great opportunity to challenge yourself and enjoy some beautiful views around Ute Valley Park and Blodgett Open Space. 

Cycle to the Summit

When: Saturday, August 12, 2023

Where: Pikes Peak Toll Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863 (Parking lots near the start line and Crystal Creek Reservoir.)

Register Here

This difficult ride is not for the faint of heart. But if you want to join the Summit Society, there is only one way to do it. The race to the summit of Pikes Peak is 12.4 miles and over 4,700 feet of elevation gain. You will have to navigate 156 turns along the windy road as well as an average grade increase of 7%. But it is all worth it for the amazing views. The ride down is a spectacular journey, and there is a shuttle available for those who prefer it. The event was started in 2010, and summiters get exclusive deals and promotions from participating sponsors. Biking Pikes Peak is a rite of passage for cyclists in Colorado Springs, so don’t miss out on your chance to join the fun.

Photo by Munbaik Cycling Clothing on Unsplash

Golden Gran Fondo

When: Sunday, August 27, 2023

Where: Event Parking located at Ford Street and 10th Street, Golden, CO 80401

Registration Not Yet Open

This cycling event is part of the Suarez Gran Fondo National Series and starts in historic Golden, Colorado. There are three course options at 18, 63, and 91 miles. The Piccolo, 18.3 mile race, has an elevation gain of 1,962 feet, and the Gran Route has an intense elevation gain of 10,860 feet. It is a challenging route, with elevation gains lasting more than thirty minutes, but that also means the descents are substantial and rewarding. The Gran Route travels slightly south of Golden and north all the way to Nederland, giving you excellent views of Golden Gate Canyon State Park and Thorodin Mountain along the way.

Final Thoughts

Now that you are excited to get back on your bike and check out these Colorado cycling events, there’s one more thing. Before you get going, make sure your bike is in good condition after being stored for the winter. Get some tips on how to clean your bike, maintain it, and ensure it will last you this cycling season. And if you are looking to warm up before one of the big days, a bike tour around Colorado Springs is a great way to do it. A three-hour bike tour around Garden of the Gods is the perfect start to the new year and a surefire way to get you motivated to ride again.  

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How to Train for a Bike Tour

Are you wishing you could go on an epic bike tour of Colorado Springs’ best attractions? Or maybe you want to prepare for one of Colorado’s annual cycling events. It doesn’t take much to train for a bike tour. With just a little preparation, you can feel confident in your riding abilities and enjoy your time in the saddle exploring the sites.

Training for a bike tour consists mainly of cardio workouts and strengthening for the legs, back, and core. You should also include flexibility training to ensure your muscles do not tighten in response to the strength training. We’ll go over what a typical week of bike training looks like so you can get riding in no time.

Strength Training for a Bike Tour

If you’re not used to riding a bicycle, your legs will struggle to keep up on a bike tour. Strengthening your leg muscles, back, and core will keep you comfortable as you sit and work your leg muscles for hours on end on a bike tour. 

Leg Workouts for Biking

To prepare for a bike tour, you will need to build strength in the quadriceps, hamstring, and gluteus muscles. You can do goblet squats and lunges (or split squats which are static). Start with no weight and progress to doing them with a dumbbell. These will help strengthen the leg muscles that interact with the knee and keep your knees happy and healthy during your bike tour. 

Glute bridges are a great way to work out the butt muscles and the hip flexors making sure that you will be able to tolerate so much leg exercise in the sitting position. If you are not used to biking, you will notice your quads and hips getting tired first. That is why exercises like these are key for improving bicycle endurance.

Other leg exercises for biking include calf raises for the lower legs and side kicks for the outer quad muscles. Finally, you can use a stationary bike to practice one-leg pedaling. This is a strenuous but effective exercise because it forces your hips to work harder. When you pedal with both legs, it is common to push down more than pull up, so one-leg pedaling strengthens those pulling-up muscles. 

Photo by Meghan Holmes on Unsplash

Back and Core Strength Training for a Bike Tour

Moving up the body, back and core workouts are also crucial to get you in bike-tour shape. Legs are not the only muscles that you will use when spending a day or more in the saddle. You also need to strengthen the muscles that keep you sitting upright on the bike. Romanian deadlifts are one of the best exercises to train the lower back. These exercises will help prevent discomfort when sitting for long periods of time. Unlike traditional deadlifts, Romanian deadlifts work the core more than the legs because you do not lower the weight to the ground and squat. When doing these, be sure to have the proper form and avoid rounding your back.

While deadlifts work the lower back and core muscles, you will also need to strengthen the erector spinae muscles, which travel the length of your back from the neck to the pelvis on either side of the spine. These muscles are important for posture and keeping upright on the bicycle. One great exercise for these back muscles is a quadruped, or bird dog, exercise. Start with your hands and knees on the ground and raise one arm and the opposite leg while keeping your core tight. This is a great way to strengthen your core for bicycling.

One final muscle group not to forget is the arm muscles. It is easy to overlook upper body workouts when thinking about bike riding, but you would be surprised at how tired your arms can get. When you think about the proper positioning on a bicycle, you actually use your arms a lot. Typically, bicyclists push against the handlebars for leverage, especially when biking uphill. And boy, are there a lot of hills involved in a Colorado Springs bike tour. Training your arms for a bike tour might consist of push-ups, planks, and side planks.

Cardio Training for Endurance Biking

You do not need to bike every day to train for biking. In fact, your cardio workouts can be anything. You can cross-train on a treadmill, with a HIIT (high-intensity interval training) workout, in a pool, or on a rowing machine. You can go jogging or hiking, or play a cardio-heavy sport like soccer or boxing. Cross-training is a great way to keep your schedule exciting and work out different muscle groups at the same time.

An ideal schedule for training for a bike tour is five or six days a week, alternating cardio and strength training days. You can plan to include one or two cross-training days per week, and make sure you are getting on the bike twice a week. Due to time constraints, you may plan a shorter ride of an hour during the week and a longer endurance ride for the weekend. You can plan for a two or three-hour weekend ride to start, and one great option is a guided bike tour. The distance you plan to achieve will determine the endurance rides. You can build up to it gradually over a few months or longer.

Pack Training for a Bike Tour

One essential step of training for a bike tour is pack training. Do not forget that a multi-day bike tour will necessarily include you carrying a backpack on your back or at least on the bike. This added weight will be quite a shock when you start if you have not introduced it during training. You can build up to it by starting with no weight and adding five pounds at a time. Once you have completed a month of training, including core and back exercises, you will find this added weight is no problem.

Photo by Patrick Hendry on Unsplash

Best Stretches for Bicycling

Anytime you work out, either strength training or cardio, you need to stretch, too. Bicycling can easily cause joint pain and sore muscles if you are tight. Flexibility is essential for comfort and muscle endurance. That is why you should stretch every day, even on off days. 

Focusing on leg stretches, you will want to include hamstring (touch your toes), IT band and hip (figure 4), groin (butterfly), and quad (bring your foot to your butt). Key hip flexor and core stretches include reaching for the ceiling and the yoga cobra pose. Finally, keep your spine muscles flexible with neck and back stretches.

Final Thoughts

Training for a bike tour is a fantastic goal to keep you motivated to work out every day. You can also see some beautiful places in Colorado Springs as you train for the big event. Choose one of these six best mountain biking spots for an endurance ride, and you will surely come to love your biking training. Please always wear a helmet, follow bike safety guidelines, and have fun. Happy riding!

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12 Terms Rock Climbers Love: An Intro to Climbing Lingo

If you are getting into rock climbing, one important thing to learn is the vocabulary. When you are hanging around other climbers and working on similar bouldering problems, you are likely to strike up a conversation that includes some odd rock climbing terms. We’ll go over some of the most popular lingo so you can fit right in as you start your climbing journey.

Beta

Getting beta on a climb means receiving advice. It could be a hint about the route, the starting position, the quality of a handhold, or anything. It could even be watching another climber complete the route so you can see what works. There is no shame in getting beta on a hard climb that you are projecting.

Before you ask someone for beta, make sure you know the names of climbing holds. That way, when someone tries to point out the route to you, you will be able to follow which holds they are talking about.

Crux

The crux of a climb is the hardest move or section. When you look at the rating of a climb, it is most likely based on the crux. This is especially true for bouldering routes. For more help figuring out how climbing route ratings work, be sure to check out our beginner’s guide to climbing techniques.

The difficulty of the crux can be hard to pinpoint. It can be due to a mixture of things including the type of hold, the distance between them, and the wall. For example, many overhung climbs have a crux at the overhang since transitioning from below the overhang to the wall above it is a particularly strenuous and difficult move. Another crux might be due to a particularly tough handhold and the next handhold being far away.

Photo by Ashlyn Ciara on Unsplash

Projecting

Working on a climb as a project is known as projecting. This can be a climb above your skill level that takes many days and many tries until you can successfully climb it in one try without falling. It is always good to have a project when you climb so you can keep pushing yourself to improve. Typically climbers may have a couple projects going at the same time.

Sending

Sending a route means getting to the top in one go without falling. This can be done with or without practice, with or without beta. It is meant to be a catch-all term to describe getting to the top of a climb. Other terms used are more specific, like on-sighting, which is successfully climbing a route the first term you try it with no beta, no prior knowledge, no watching someone else do it. 

Slack and Take

These are two important terms and the most common ways for climbers to direct their belayer. Slack means that you want more slack in the rope. Take means that you want the belayer to take slack and make the rope tighter. As a belayer, you may hear a climber yell ‘take’ if they think they will fall or when they need a rest so they do not lose height on the route. To learn more belay terms, you can check out a guided climbing tour. In addition to enjoying a unique outdoor climbing experience, you will learn climbing safety, belay techniques, and more. 

Spotter

Spotting someone on a climb is very important. This is common at the beginning of lead climbs before the climber gets to the first anchor and on outdoor bouldering routes. The goal of a spotter is to make sure that if the climber falls, they do not hit their head. You are not standing directly under the climber trying to catch them if they fall. In this case, you will end up getting hurt yourself. Instead, a spotter stands back with their arms outstretched, elbows slightly bent, and thumbs in. If your climber falls, your main goal is to keep them upright, protect the head and neck, and make sure they fall safely onto the crash pads.

In outdoor bouldering, the role of a spotter or multiple spotters is essential. You may reposition crash pads as the climber moves, so they can land safely on it if they fall. You also may direct the climber as they fall to make sure they get on the crash pad and do not bounce off. If your climber is smaller than you, you can catch them around the waist and ease their fall. If the climber is bigger than you, you will more likely direct them with your hands on their butt to ensure they fall onto the crash pad. 

Photo by Mark McGregor on Unsplash

Types of Walls

Face and Slab

While a perfectly vertical wall, sometimes called a face, is the easiest to climb, many walls are not so simple. Especially if you are climbing outdoors, you are likely to encounter walls at different angles, even ones that change angle throughout the climb. A wall that tilts back away from you, and is thus less steep than vertical, is called a slab. 

Climbing a slab requires balance and confidence in your footholds. It can be scary for beginners to climb slabs because you may feel like if you fall, you’ll fall into the wall. To avoid scraping yourself on the wall, be sure to hop backward when you feel like you are going to fall. 

Overhangs, Roofs, and Caves

The opposite of a slab is an overhang. An overhang is any section of a wall that is more than vertical. Overhung walls tend to be a little more challenging because they require more strength to stay on the wall. 

If an overhung route is so angled that it juts out over your head and forces you to climb nearly horizontally, it is called a roof. A large section of this might be called a cave, and these are generally found in bouldering or lead climbing areas. With gravity working directly against you, climbing a roof requires a lot of strength and endurance. 

Final Thoughts

There are unlimited slang terms that different people use in different types of climbing. What is most important is that you are able to pick up enough to communicate effectively with other climbers when sharing route information. When climbing outdoors, another important safety tip is to establish non-verbal communication solutions with your group members. Over time, you will surely pick up more and more terms, so be patient and happy climbing!

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How to Train to Hike a Colorado Fourteener

Are you hoping to summit one of Colorado’s famed 14ers but don’t know if you’ve got what it takes? It is actually a lot easier than you think to get in shape for a hike, and you can train to go from couch to 14er in a matter of months. Following a consistent and well-rounded exercise plan will prepare you to hike your first 14er and make sure you have a great time doing it. 

There are a few important elements to remember when training for a big hike. They are cardio, strength, and flexibility. In this article, we will go over how to train for all three and what a typical week should look like as you prepare for a hike in Colorado.

Cardio Training for Elevation Hikes

Cardio is important not just for long-distance hiking, but in this case, also for hiking at elevation. As you climb up a mountain, the amount of oxygen in the air decreases. At sea level, the air is about 21% oxygen. At 8,000 feet, it is 15%, and by 14,000 feet, it is 12.3%. This means that you will fatigue faster and get muscle cramps more easily. If you are not prepared physically for the elevation, you will be more susceptible to symptoms of altitude sickness.

Doing cardio training helps combat these symptoms by conditioning your body to use oxygen more efficiently and adapt better to vigorous exercise. When training to hike a 14er, it is best to do cardio every other day. You can strength train in between and of course, have an active rest day (or weekend). Your cardio exercise should last at least an hour and focus on consistent exercise, often called steady-state cardio. This means working hard with minimal rests, to the point where you are breaking a sweat but not risking injury. 

Good cardio exercises for preparing to hike a 14er can be anything from rowing to running or biking to swimming. It is helpful to focus on low-impact exercises so you do not injure or over-stress joints when training.

Photo by Sam Moghadam Khamseh on Unsplash

Strength Workouts for Hiking Training 

Strength training may not be top of mind when you consider hiking a 14er, but it is just as important as training for cardio. Mountain climbing requires endurance from many muscles in your legs, back, and core. Between hiking at an incline (or decline on the way down) and some large steps in a scramble, you will certainly find your legs tested on a Colorado 14er.

Your strength workouts should take at least half an hour. I like to complete three sets of eight to ten exercises on strength training days. A good strength training routine will include full-body and core exercises. You want to focus on building stability and endurance in the ankles, knees, and hips. There is a multitude of different movements you can choose from to work on these areas. For legs, you’ve got squats, lunges, step-ups, step-downs, and heel raises. Hip flexor and lower core strengthening exercises include deadlifts, hip thrusts, and various sit-up workouts. If you have had problems with your feet in the past, be sure to include towel curls (or towel scrunches) to help strengthen your arch and prevent injury.

Pack and Elevation Training

One more important part of strength and cardio training is hiking with weight. When you are hiking a 14er, you will need to bring a day pack with water, food, extra layers, and first aid gear. No matter how light you keep it, your body and your back will notice this extra weight. That is why it is essential to build pack training days into your cardio routines.

My preferred schedule is to work out every day of the week, with cardio Tuesdays and Thursdays. Then, plan Saturdays for practice hikes with pack and elevation training and Sundays as your rest day. When you organize your schedule like this, you will find it takes only a few months to go from couch to 14er.

You should start your training hikes with two or three-hour hikes that have a minimal elevation gain of a couple of thousand feet. There are plenty of great moderate hikes near Colorado Springs to choose from, including the Columbine Trail. Once you build up to six to eight-hour hikes with at least 4,000 feet of elevation gain, you will surely be ready for your first 14er. 

Photo by Lukas Allspach on Unsplash

Flexibility Training for Hiking 14ers

The final part of hiking training, one certainly not to be overlooked, is stretching. When training to hike a 14er, you should stretch every single day, even on your rest days. If you do not stretch daily, you will find your muscles tighter, more injury-prone, and sorer. 

It is best to stretch during and after workouts. It is a myth that you should stretch before you start exercising. Stretching when your body is cold can cause microtears in your muscles. Instead, take five minutes to warm up or start light exercises before you get into a deep stretch. 

You should, at the very minimum, stretch your calves, hamstrings, quads, IT bands, hip flexors, and back (by touching your toes). I also like to stretch my feet by extending my toes and my ankles by kneeling and sitting (gently) on my heels. You should hold each stretch for twenty seconds and repeat any that feel tight. While these stretches do take time, your body will thank you, and you will feel more relaxed and able to endure longer workouts. 

Hiking Your First 14er

Don’t feel defeated at the prospect of training for a 14er. You do not actually need to hike 14,000 feet in elevation gain to summit one of Colorado’s peaks. There are many hikes to peaks that are only a few thousand feet of elevation gain, depending on the parking lot and trail you choose. With a few months of hard work and training, you can begin using 14ers to train for other, more strenuous 14ers.

So where should you start? Many people consider Pikes Peak to be the easiest 14er near Colorado Springs. If you are hoping for a little professional guidance before you tackle your first 14er, be sure to check out a guided hiking tour. With 58 peaks over 14,000 feet, Colorado has no shortage of inspiring hikes to add to your bucket list. Be safe, and happy hiking!

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Rock Climbing Holds: A Beginner’s Guide

When you are just getting started rock climbing, it can be hard to get on the wall and stay there. Some aspects of rock climbing are not intuitive, and if your only previous climbing exposure is with ladders, there are sure to be types of rock climbing holds you haven’t encountered before.

In this article, we will go over the various indoor climbing holds, how to approach and hold on to them, and what you should know about your center of gravity while rock climbing. Once you learn how to grip different rock climbing holds, you will be much more comfortable on the wall and easily move past beginner rock climbs into early intermediate routes.

Although this article will focus on indoor rock climbing holds, these skills are transferable to outdoor climbing as well. Once you know how to recognize and respond to different holds, you will be prepared for many different types of climbing, including sport climbing, bouldering, and top rock climbing, indoors and out.

The Five Main Types of Rock Climbing Holds

Jugs

The easiest rock climbing hold for beginners to use is the jug. These holds have large, ergonomic shapes that you can grip with your whole hand. They will typically look like a large pocket at the top, big enough to put all four fingers in. For extra stability, I hold these with my thumb out to the side, as pictured below, although you can also keep it flush against your forefinger.

With jugs, as well as the rest of the basic climbing holds in this first list, it is easiest to hold on when your center of gravity is below the hold. Pulling yourself up to the hold employs the bicep and tricep, and you can continue to use the hold once your center of mass changes. Pulling on the hold will keep your weight close to the wall and help you stand up, and pushing off the hold from above (in a move called a “mantle”) provides extra height for reaching the next hold.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

Crimps (and Edges and Chips)

The next most common rock climbing hold is the crimp. Crimps are small holds that have a thin ledge only big enough for the pads of your fingers. Edges are similar holds with less-defined lips to keep your fingers in place. Chips are even tinier holds that you see used mostly as foot holds and in advanced climbing routes. These are also easily the most common holds you will find outdoors on a guided rock climbing tour.

These tiny holds are hard for beginner climbers because they require a lot of finger and hand muscles that, prior to climbing, I hadn’t developed. Sometimes you will only be able to fit a couple of fingers on these holds, and this will stress your tendons. Crimps are the reason it is important to stretch your fingers and wrists before climbing. With these holds, they are almost exclusively usable from below. When reaching for a crimp, remember to move your hips and adjust your body weight accordingly. Keep your wrist straight to avoid injury and use your shoulder and elbow to maneuver into the necessary position.

There are three different ways to grip a crimp. An open hand position, in which the tips of your fingers stay above the other knuckles is the safest to avoid injury. It is also often weaker until you develop these muscles. This is primarily useful for the sloper, another rock climbing hold we’ll get to soon. A closed crimp (shown below) tends to be the strongest position, but it is also the most stressful for the joints. Imagine making a fist, but uncurling the last knuckle. In this hand position, your fingertips are almost touching the top of your palm, and this can cause tendonitis if you are not careful. The most common hand position is the half-open hand, where your fingers wrap around an imaginary circular ladder rung.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

Pinches

With a similar hand position as the crimp, pinches require you to keep your fingers mostly straight. Pinches can be horizontal, vertical, or somewhere in between. These are hard for beginner rock climbers, as they require hand and thumb strength that take time to develop.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

Slopers (and Guppies)

Slopers are large rounded holds that, at first encounter, appear impossible to grab. These tricky rock climbing holds rely on friction more than strength. They also tend to make beginner climbers nervous because it is impossible to feel secure on a sloper. You grab a sloper with an open-hand grip similar to crimps, though you can spread your fingers and thumb out for better coverage. 

Slopers are one of the most important holds to consider body position and center of gravity. They are simply impossible to hold onto if you are in the wrong place. Read more about managing your center of gravity in our beginner’s rock climbing technique guide. Consider where your fingers are as a horizontal line, and keep your wrist and elbow perpendicular to that line. This will protect your tendons and joints from injury and provide the best opposite force to keep you on the climbing hold.

A guppy is similar to a sloper, except it works best when you grip it on the side. Whereas slopers have your palm facing the wall, guppies require you to turn your hand ninety degrees. It is easy to grab wrong at first, but you’ll find a sideways grip necessary to get the best friction.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

Pockets

Pocket holds are sort of like jugs, but with the pocket facing forward. They also tend to be smaller, only big enough for a couple of fingers. Both of these factors make them a lot tougher for beginner climbers to manage.

Be sure to have a slow approach to a pocket. This is not a rock climbing hold you should grab from a dyno, as that is likely to cause jammed fingers. It is also important not to push yourself too much on a pocket. If you feel like you are injuring yourself trying to hold weight on two fingers, you probably are.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

Top Three Secondary Climbing Movements

The Sidepull

There are three more basic climbing holds that you will likely encounter. These are distinguished by the movements required to use them. The first, the sidepull, is any hold out to the side of the route that is turned vertically. To hold a sidepull, put your arm parallel to the ground and employ core and tricep muscles to pull the arm toward you.

If you try to hold a sidepull from below, you will slip off the wall. Instead, rotate your hips and feet in order to turn toward the sidepull and create more opposite action. It is this tension that keeps you on the wall. You’ll see this is true for the last two holds as well. Because it is more about the movement, sidepulls can technically be any hold, but they are most likely either edges or pinches.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

The Gaston

Now that you can visualize a sidepull, the gaston is this in reverse. It is again most likely to be a crimp, pinch, or sloper-type hold. You will have the same sideways-facing hold but positioned closer to the center of the route, where your body is. As a result, the gaston requires climbers to push down or outward away from the body with a fully bent elbow. Similar to the sidepull, it is essential to manage your center of gravity and align your arm perpendicular to the climbing hold.

This is one of the hardest rock climbing holds because it is one of the few that relies on pushing away rather than pulling toward. Depending on the angle, this mechanism can stress the shoulder. The gaston is the most common cause of a shoulder injury, specifically rotor cuff injury, among climbers.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

The Undercling

The final rock climbing hold you need to know is the undercling. This will look like a jug but upside down. Underclings are most often found as starting holds and at the base of overhangs. Underclings are another not-particularly intuitive hold for beginner rock climbers. To use one, you need to balance on your foot holds and use the undercling to pull up and keep yourself close to the wall. If you find an undercling in the middle of a route, you will need to lean away from the wall (as shown below) in order to get a good grip on it and not slip off.

Photo by Bastien Plu on Unsplash

Now that you know the different types of indoor rock climbing holds, you can head to the gym and get some hands-on experience. Before you jump on the wall, stretch your arms and look at the route. Examining the holds and envisioning how you will approach them will help you spend less time on the wall getting tired. Be sure to check out our overview of the beginner rock climbing gear you will need, and you will be all set. Happy climbing!