Rock Climbing Terminology
To get started I’d like to take a minute to explain some of the rock climbing terminology that I’ll be using in the rest of my posts. The rock climbing terminology is a perpetually growing language, but it helps at least to have a general idea of what is already in use.
General
Route- A series of moves making a path from the bottom of a rock mass to the top.
Problem- Generally used to describe a climbing rout as a whole. Termed as such because of the physical puzzle represented by each rout.
Flash- complete a problem the first time you try it.
Send- Complete a climbing problem.
On sight- Complete a problem on the first try without ever having seen the route before.
Stick- To complete a move from hold to hold.
Down climb- To climb back down a route from the top to the bottom.
Traverse- To move horizontally across a rock mass.
Holds
Finger pocket-A place on a hold that you can put at least one finger in.
Jug-A large hold that you can fit most or all of your fingers into.
Jib-A very small hold with no pocket that may only stand up to a half inch from the rock. Mainly used as foot holds.
Sloper-A rock that has flat rounded edges and no pockets. They require an open hand grip which uses the long tendons in the forearm. Usually used for balance rather that progression.
Crimp-A small rock that requires a closed finger grip utilizing the short tendons in the wrist and forearm.
Pinch-Small or large rock that has no lip or pocket and requires you to pinch your thumb toward your fingers for support.
Moves
Match-Place both hands on the same rock simultaneusly.
Hang-Remain on a rock with your support arm straight and unflexed.
Lock off-Hang from rock with arm bent at either 90 deg or 45 deg.
Dyno-Lunge from one rock to another leaving the wall completely before reaching the next hold.
Static-Reach another hold without leaving the one you were on.
Flag-Leave one foot free from the wall to counter-balance another move.
Heel-Place the heel of your shoe on a rock hold.
Stub/Drag-Drag one foot across wall to maintain balance during a move.
Campass- Move from rock to rock without using your feet.
Gear
Crash pad-Large pad that is placed under a climber in case of a fall.
Chalk bag-Bag that hangs from the waist while climbing to keep hands dry.
I will be periodically updating the list of rock climbing terminology so that it will be current. If there are any questions about terms not in this list please leave a comment and I’ll add it.