Interested in what different climbing moves are called and want to level up? This isn't an exhaustive list but these are a lot of the popular ones that you need to hone in on to excel on your journey. Hope you find this helpful and please feel free t...
Short for “dynamic”, a dyno is something that requires some sort of explosive movement, usually with jumping, feet cutting, and momentum…. unless you're v tall.
Dyno
Not often found in gyms unless there are top out routes or macro holds. Mantles are how you'll finish an outdoor climb. Think of it as, the move when you're getting out of a pool. Harder than it looks, depending on said top out!
Mantle
A back flag is a way to keep stability on the wall, essentially creating an arrow to make moving to the next hold more attainable. Linked is a great article on flagging, in general!
Back Flag
Super under utilized. Again, like back flagging except using your inside leg, instead.
Inside Flag
A more advanced technique but extremely useful. The link has a great explanation on when and how to do a rose!
The Rose Move
I'll admit that I NEVER use this move. Yes, there are use cases and fun as a party trick but once a friend broke his nose doing it, I'm good…..
Figure Four
Another great foot techique to be stable on the wall. Requires practice and if you're new to the sport, can potentially be a recipe for disaster. Practice on jugs, first is my recommendation!
Drop Knee
Extremely useful in various situations. The sister of the heel hook. Anchor yourself into the wall with a toe. Strangely, ankle strength and mobility is key here! Can you say, bat hang?!
Toe Hook
A mandatory technique to have in your tool box. Alex does a great job of explaining the heel hook below!
Heel Hook
I LOATHE this move and it's def one of my anti-styles! The opposite of a squeezy, compression.
Stemming
In the name, it's laying back on a hold typically with feet smearing to stay on the wall.
Laybacking
I think this one is under utilized, as well. Typically beneficial outdoors. Just put your entire palm on the rock for some extra leverage!
Palming
No footholds? No problem. Use the wall or rock anyway!
Smearing
Great videos on a technique that allows for better body positioning to advance to the next hold. Check them out!
Backstep
Typically found in the gym on comp style routes. The parkour-esque move is a type of dynamic movement. Be kind to yourself and patient as you learn the movement. Watch any IFSC Boulder final and you'll most likely see this move set.
Lache
Fancy for photos and also super useful. A great way to beta break and think about often as a way to get to the finish! Does it knee bar?!
