Seeing My Thoughts: A Boulderer's Tale

Want to know what I’m thinking when I’m climbing problems? Check out the video description below and enjoy.

White chalk-covered hands match on the red colored hold.

My body crouches down to the starting position.

Begin the sequence.

Left, right, left, right, arms moving in a familiar rhythm.

Grips secure and true.

Feet move me upward, steady as can be.

But still hoping I don’t swing out.

Moving to the front face, I need an extra limb.

Engage heelhook.

The “third arm” anchors me on the hold.

Using most of my strength, I pull myself up to grab the next piece.

Muscles tighten to support my whole body.

Reach! And… gotcha!

Keeping balance in check, I stand upright.

Now, just a few more to the top.

Then grasp the last hold.

Flash a smile and a thumbs-up.

After I mantle on the edge, swing my legs onto the top,

I walk across the boulder island with my head held a little higher.

Until next time, happy bouldering!