Movement Blog

In our gyms, everything is inspected regularly—bolts, anchors, quickdraws, you name it. But out at the crags, where there isn’t a Rockstar facilities team to back you up, it’s up to the climbing community to keep each other safe. At outdoor climbing areas, on public land, there is no routine maintenance or inspection by land management agencies, and all work is done by local volunteers. This means as climbers we are responsible for the bolts and anchors we choose to use! Thankfully, with the help of the American Safe Climbing Association (ASCA), caring for the crags you love has never been easier.

So, you just started climbing at a Movement Gym - congrats! Now that the weather is cooling down and the leaves are starting to change, you may be thinking about gearing up and taking your skills outside. Climbing is not only a great way to stay active and grow your community, but it's also an amazing way to enjoy the outdoors, especially in fall, when the temperatures are cooler, and the crisp air makes it ideal for sending.

Spent plenty of sessions crushing it at our indoor gyms and feeling ready to take your skills to the great outdoors? We're so stoked for you to experience the thrill of climbing on real rock. There's nothing quite like fresh air, the sounds of nature, and that satisfying burn as you problem-solve your way up an outdoor route or boulder.

Whether you're a seasoned climber with years of experience or a newcomer eagerly embracing the thrill of scaling rocks, chances are your adventures have led or will lead you to some of the most breathtaking climbing destinations across the country. As climbers, we're privileged to explore these natural wonders, but with this privilege comes a responsibility to protect and preserve these environments for future generations. This is where climbing stewardship comes into play.

In honor of our annual West Coast Friction Series competition, let's talk all things friction to get you (and your skin) in Peak Performance shape. Whether you're a seasoned climber or just starting out, caring for your skin is crucial for optimal sendage. In this blog, we'll explore five essential tips tailored specifically for climbers aiming to achieve maximum friction all while taking care of their precious skin.

If you’ve ever walked away from a crag with black, dirty hands, it might be time to wash your climbing rope.

After the long, cold winter of pulling on plastic, you may be hearing the outdoors inviting you outside again. You can hear it now…the chirping birds, the wind rustling the trees, and the clink clank of climber’s gear bouncing in cadence. As you head up the approach to the cliffs, you can feel the stoke of the first climb of the year. You’re feeling strong from all the winter workouts as you strap your shoes on and pull out that old rack that’s been sitting in your gear closet since last…who knows when? Belay on! The rock feels familiar, an old friend. The movement up the rock is as natural as the first two stoppers you just placed. Feeling confident on the easy terrain, you figure you might just run it out a little. After all, there’s a great placement just a little further up. Suddenly, you’re 8 feet above that last stopper. As you reach to make your next placement, panic sets in--the cam is frozen. The lobes won’t expand when the trigger is released. Heart racing and grip starting to sweat, it’s very clear: you forgot check your gear before heading outside for the first time of the season.