Lattice Training, a renowned climbing training company, offers a range of resources and tools, including the exclusive Lattice Board. This unique assessment tool, designed by experienced climbing coaches Ollie Tor and Tom Randall, is not available for purchase and is only accessible at select facilities, adding an element of exclusivity to its use.

However, this novel tool made a name for itself in climbing training, so it’s worth diving into the details even if you’re unlikely to climb on one. If you can utilize a Lattice Board, you’ll know how to leverage its unique features.

What is the Purpose of the Lattice Board?

The Lattice Board is the ultimate standardized testing tool for technique, endurance, and overall climbing profile. It works best when combined with Lattice Online assessments or under the direction of a Lattice-accredited coach. At the end of an evaluation using the Lattice Board, you’ll have objective data on your movement efficiency, finger strength, endurance, recovery, mobility, and other climbing-related physical attributes.

Aside from its assessment capabilities, the Lattice Board offers a wide range of training options, making it a versatile tool for climbers. The board can be used for various purposes, from movement practice to system training and general conditioning, including working on drop knees, hip positioning, and endurance circuits.

The board includes a pre-determined circuit, numbered for ease of use.

How is the Lattice Board set up?

The Lattice Board is a diamond grid composed of wooden rungs. The rules for most assessments and circuits on the board are as follows:

● Rungs as side pulls

● Don’t use your thumbs

● Only use wooden rungs (don’t use the colored rung joints or slotted edges in the middle of the rungs.

Some Lattice Boards may feature the Lattice Fusion Holds. These are crimps of three sizes. Blue crimps have the largest edge, yellow crimps have a medium-sized edge, and red crimps have the smallest edge.

How do you complete an assessment or training on the Lattice Board?

Generally, the Lattice Board will be a better tool for intermediate to advanced climbers looking to hone in on their weaknesses and formulate a customized training plan. For those in this boat, download the Lattice Training App or visit Lattice Training’s website for self-assessment, guided assessment, and training program options. Lattice Traning’s YouTube channel also offers another digital option with assessments using the Lattice Board: the Crimpd App.

Training options vary depending on how climbers use the board. For example, they can complete the McClure circuit, which only uses the rung holds, gastons, and open-hip positions to assess and improve their shoulder and lock-off strength. The Fusion Hold Set add-ons are optimal for power endurance training and circuits. Changing the angle of the wall can increase or decrease the difficulty of both the rung and crimp circuits.

We’d love to hear from you! If you’ve had the opportunity to train on a Lattice Board or know of any climbing gyms/training centers where others can try out the tool, please share your experience in the comments below. Your insights can be valuable for others in the climbing community!

Do you know where to buy your climbing equipment? Hand-me-downs and free bins from the overflow lost and found can get you some cool stuff, but if you want all the right gear and precisely what you’re looking for, there are other places you should check out.

Climbing requires the right gear for safety, comfort, and performance. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned climber, finding reliable places to purchase climbing equipment is essential. The right place can offer quality products, expert advice, and peace of mind. Here’s a guide to help you navigate where to buy your climbing equipment.

Local Outdoor Retailers

Local outdoor retailers are a fantastic resource for climbing equipment. These stores often employ knowledgeable staff who are experienced climbers themselves, so they can guide you in selecting the right gear for your climbing style and the adventures you want to tackle.

The benefits of shopping locally extend beyond expert advice. You can inspect the gear firsthand, guaranteeing it meets your standards for quality and comfort, and support a small business in the process! Additionally, many local stores host events, clinics, and climbing meetups, helping you connect with the community.

Look for retailers specializing in climbing gear rather than general outdoor stores. These niche shops are more likely to stock high-quality brands and specialized equipment.

Big-Box Sporting Goods Stores

Big-box stores like REI and Decathlon offer a wide range of climbing gear, often at competitive prices. These stores are great options for beginners looking for basic equipment such as harnesses, chalk bags, and climbing shoes.

The advantage of big-box stores is their accessibility. They have multiple locations, generous return policies, and a mix of entry-level and advanced gear. Some even have in-store climbing walls, allowing customers to test equipment before purchasing.

However, these stores might lack the specialized selection found in boutique retailers. You may need to explore other options for high-performance gear or niche items.

Online Retailers

Online shopping has revolutionized the way climbers buy gear. Platforms like Backcountry, Moosejaw, and Amazon offer an extensive selection of equipment, often with detailed reviews from fellow climbers.

The convenience of online shopping is unmatched. You can compare prices, read customer feedback, and access brands that might not be available locally. Many online retailers also run frequent sales, helping you snag high-quality gear at discounted prices.

However, there’s a drawback—you can’t try the gear before buying. Knowing your sizing and preferences is crucial, especially for items like shoes or helmets. Look for retailers with easy return policies in case the gear doesn’t meet your expectations.

Manufacturer Websites

Buying directly from manufacturers like Black Diamond, Petzl, or Metolius ensures authenticity and often provides access to the latest products. Manufacturer websites also sometimes offer exclusive items or early access to new releases!

While shopping directly can be slightly pricier, the assurance of genuine, high-quality gear makes it worthwhile. You’ll also find comprehensive product details, guides, and customer support to assist in your purchase.

Secondhand Markets

Secondhand markets like GearTrade or Facebook Marketplace can be treasure troves for climbers on a budget. These platforms allow users to buy used equipment at a fraction of the original cost.

When buying secondhand, prioritize safety. Avoid purchasing used ropes, harnesses, or protection gear, as their history and wear may compromise integrity. You don’t ever really know what somebody put their gear through! Instead, focus on items like chalk bags, crash pads, shoes, or climbing apparel.

Always scrutinize the condition of secondhand gear, and consult an experienced climber for advice when in doubt.

Climbing Gyms

Some climbing gyms have pro shops stocked with essential gear. These shops cater to indoor climbers and beginners who want to ease into the sport.

Purchasing from a gym’s shop offers the convenience of testing gear in the same environment where you’ll use it. Plus, gym staff often have firsthand experience with the gear they sell, offering trustworthy recommendations.

Trade Shows and Events

Climbing expos, trade shows, and outdoor festivals are fantastic places to discover unique gear and score deals. Brands often showcase new products, and you can sometimes purchase directly from the manufacturers at discounted rates.

These events also allow you to network with other climbers, learn about the latest trends, and even participate in workshops to deepen your climbing knowledge.

Where Will You Buy?

Where you buy your climbing equipment matters, each option offers unique advantages, whether it’s a local shop, online retailer, or secondhand market. Consider your budget, expertise level, and gear needs when choosing where to shop. Ultimately, the right gear, sourced from a trusted retailer, is an investment in your climbing adventures and safety.

Competitive rock climbing is more than just a sport; it’s an adventure that shapes character, builds resilience, and fuels a sense of accomplishment. It’s not just about reaching the top of a wall; it’s about discovering what your child is capable of! If you’re searching for an activity that blends physical fitness, mental growth, and pure fun, competitive rock climbing might be the perfect fit for your child.

Builds Physical Strength and Endurance

Climbing is a full-body workout that engages muscles from head to toe. Every climb strengthens your child’s core, arms, legs, and back—and they do so without realizing it because climbing is fun!

Beyond muscle tone, climbing develops endurance as they tackle increasingly challenging routes. Unlike traditional sports, climbing encourages fluid, dynamic movements, helping kids build strength naturally and excitingly!

Enhances Problem-Solving Skills

Every route is like a puzzle, just waiting to be solved. Your child must think about how to move their body up the wall in a way that works for them. They do this through trial and error on the wall or standing on the ground, analyzing the movement patterns needed for the climb in front of them.

Competitive climbing forces kids to think strategically and quickly, deciding the best path to the top. It helps them better understand their bodies and learn how to move them efficiently and in a timely manner. It also teaches them to analyze, adapt, and execute under pressure, skills invaluable in climbing and life.

Promotes Confidence and Self-Reliance

There is nothing quite like the feeling of conquering a climb that once seemed impossible. Ask any climbing coach how they feel when they watch a team kid complete a climb they once couldn’t do; you’ll surely receive a genuine feeling of excitement and pride.

Competitive rock climbing empowers children to trust their abilities and overcome self-doubt. Overcoming challenges on the wall translates to greater confidence off it, as children realize they’re capable of more than they thought.

Develops Resilience and Perseverance

In climbing, falling isn’t failing—it’s part of the process. Every climber in the world has fallen and continues to do so! Competitive rock climbing teaches children to embrace setbacks as opportunities to learn. A good coach will help instill this attitude in your child.

Each attempt brings them closer to success, fostering resilience and a never-give-up attitude that will serve them throughout their lives. They’ll understand failure as a stepping stool for success, not an ending.

Encourages Teamwork and Sportsmanship

Though climbing may appear to be an individual sport, and it largely is, competitive climbing fosters a strong sense of community. Kids cheer each other on, share tips, and celebrate each other’s achievements!

They’ll understand how it feels to receive encouragement from others and want to offer it in the same capacity. This camaraderie nurtures teamwork and teaches them the importance of lifting others up, even in competition.

Improves Focus and Discipline

Climbing demands concentration. From studying routes to executing moves, your child must stay laser-focused to succeed. You may fall off the wall instantly if you do not stay fully present.

Competitive climbing adds an extra layer of discipline as they train consistently and set goals. These habits of focus and discipline often spill over into their academic and personal lives.

Provides a Safe, Structured Environment

Competitive climbing gyms offer a safety-oriented, controlled space where children can challenge themselves without unnecessary risks. Certified coaches and meticulously maintained equipment make certain that your child climbs under expert supervision, giving you peace of mind.

You can stick around and observe how your child interacts in their climbing environment, or drop them off at climbing practice and run your errands! Come back to pick up a worn-out kid excited to tell you about what they learned.

Boosts Social Skills

Competitive climbing happens worldwide, allowing children to interact with peers of all ages and backgrounds. They learn to communicate, collaborate, and form lasting friendships. The shared goal of climbing fosters connections that can build a strong sense of belonging.

Teaches Goal Setting and Achievement

Competitive climbing helps kids set goals, whether reaching the top of a tricky route, placing in a competition, or even learning subtle technique differences to improve their climbing. They learn to work steadily toward these milestones, developing a sense of purpose and accomplishment as they achieve them.

Combines Fun with Fitness

Let’s face it—kids are more likely to stick with activities they enjoy. Competitive climbing disguises exercise as fun, making it easier for children to embrace an active lifestyle. It’s an adrenaline-packed adventure that keeps them coming back for more. Has your child expressed interest in joining a climbing team? Get them started today!

Two decades ago, having a rock climbing gym near you was rare. If there was one, it was likely unmarketed and frequented by hard-core rock climbers who started the sport outside and used the gym to train during off-seasons or lousy weather.

A decade ago, if you lived in a suburban or urban area, you likely had a climbing facility within a 45-minute drive. More climbers were starting the sport inside rather than migrating from outdoor climbing.

Today, a quick Google search will likely give suburban or urban dwellers three to four climbing gyms to choose from within a 45-minute commute. Even in rural areas, there’s a strong chance at least one climbing gym is within driving distance.

The moral of the story is that the sport of indoor rock climbing is exploding, and with it, more rock gyms are opening up. This is great but can also leave you with analysis paralysis. Which is the best gym to go to? How do they compare? In the past, you would’ve had one, maybe two, options, making your decision much more straightforward. But if you’ve found yourself in a mecca of facilities, choosing the right gym can be challenging.

Analysis paralysis shouldn’t delay you from getting to a gym and getting your climb on. Here are five tips to help you decide which climbing gym near you is the best fit!

5 Tips to Choosing the Right Rock Climbing Gym Near Me

1. Choose what type of climbing you want to do.

First, decide whether to boulder, rope climb, or do both. Some gyms are boulder-only facilities, while others offer sport climbing (using a rope) and boulders. You won’t find any sport-only gyms, but if you prefer rope climbing, look for the facility near you advertising the most roped climbing terrain. Once you decide what type(s) of climbing you are interested in, see which gyms near you offer that discipline and move on to tip #2 to continue narrowing the options down.

2. Set your budget and commute radius.

Rock gym day passes, punch passes, and memberships can be expensive. While prices are unlikely to fluctuate significantly, consider the pricing and decide if you’d prefer the cheaper option. Additionally, some rock gyms may have seasonal promotions or discounts available. If you are trying to be aware of spending, consider going to the most affordable gym.

If multiple rock climbing gyms are nearby, check the distance from your residence. At first glance, you may prefer the largest facility. But, if it’s a 40-minute drive away while another gym is only a 15-minute commute, you may choose the closer facility (less time in the car = more time climbing).

3. Pick the time(s) of day you want to climb.

Another factor to consider is when you’ll climb. Mornings? Evenings? Weekends? While it’s standard for rock gyms to stay open until 10 or 11 pm on weeknights, opening times vary. Busy facilities or those with robust fitness areas or fitness and yoga classes tend to open as early as 6 am, while others open at 9 am or even as late as noon. Once you determine the times you want to be able to climb, check facility hours to help narrow down your options.

4. Consider if you want access to fitness and yoga classes.

As mentioned in tip #3, many rock climbing gyms have started offering fitness and yoga classes with fully equipped gym areas and studio spaces. If these interest you, look for a rock gym advertising these options. It’s worth noting that the membership and day pass pricing may be higher at these facilities, which have offerings beyond climbing, but they can serve as a traditional gym, too. For those who want to balance your climbing with strength training or cardio, these all-encompassing facilities may suit your needs best.

5. Decide if community events are important to you.

Climbing is as much about the community as it is about the climbing. At a climbing gym, you will meet many wonderful and encouraging people who can become fast friends inside and outside the gym. Rock climbing gyms recognize this, and many host community or member events that mix socialization and climbing. If you want to meet new people, make new friends, and immerse yourself in the climbing community, look for a gym that offers these events. Some gyms may post their events on their websites, but a great place to browse is the social media pages. They’ve likely recapped past community events in a social media post and shared upcoming events.

Ultimately, choosing the right rock climbing gym near you is a matter of personal preference. Understanding the differences and various offerings available can help you narrow down your search and find the best fit. Remember, there’s no need to feel pressured to make the perfect choice right away. Many experienced climbers have a ‘home base’ gym but also enjoy visiting other local gyms for a change of scenery and new climbing challenges. The most important thing is to get started, so armed with these five tips, pick a gym and start climbing!