Climbing in 2024: Your Ultimate Guide to Setting Goals in the New Year

Heyyyyyy! It's been way too long since we caught up! A lot's happened in the past year, and with all the chaos, I've been MIA from the blog. But guess what? I'm back, better than ever, and stoked to reconnect with you all!

Before diving into tales of past adventures and what's on the horizon, let's talk 2024 goals. Personally, 2023 saw me lose some strength, and my training game wasn't as strong as I'd hoped. Life got wild (in a good way), but now, 2024 is my year to prioritise climbing and amp up that strength game. If you're on a similar wavelength and want to set some killer goals, here's a laid-back guide to help you rock it!

Climbing is this amazing sport that lets you dream big and easily measure progress with grades. But to crush those targets efficiently, setting goals is key. It's not just for the pros – whether you're eyeing your first V2 or a gnarly project, strategic goal-setting takes your climbing journey to new heights. So, here are 6 steps to guide you:

  1. Reflect on Past Wins: Take a trip down memory lane to 2023. What victories did you snatch? Any hiccups or challenges that taught you a thing or two? Before jumping into the future, it's crucial to consider your journey and the lessons it dished out.

  2. Consider Climbing Holistically: Beyond ticking grades off your list, think about technique, strength, mental resilience, and the adventure factor. Breaking down your goals into these categories crafts a killer plan for overall improvement.

  3. Craft a Progression Plan: Avoid the overwhelm by breaking down your big goals into bite-sized, achievable steps. As my dad used to say, "You can't eat an elephant in one go – just take it bite by bite." It sounds quirky, but the wisdom holds true – step-by-step progress is the name of the game. Design a plan with regular training sessions, skill-building exercises, and a structured schedule.

  4. Embrace Challenges and Adapt: Challenges and setbacks are part of the course. Expecting and accepting them, arms you to overcome rather than be knocked down. Embrace challenges as chances to grow, not roadblocks. Stay flexible – if a goal feels too ambitious or life throws a curveball, tweak your plan.

  5. Track and Celebrate Your Wins: Keep tabs on your journey! Whether it's a journal, climbing videos, or a dedicated Instagram, find a way to celebrate your progress. Let it fuel your motivation to keep pushing!

  6. Get in on the Climbing Community: The climbing community rocks – it's friendly and supportive! Connect with fellow climbers, join clubs, or dive into online conversations. Sharing experiences and support makes the journey way more fun. Trust me; it's a game-changer!

As you dive into setting those climbing goals, remember it's not just about chasing them; it's about relishing the journey, embracing growth, and finding joy in the sport. Whether you're facing challenges or savoring victories, take it all in. May 2024 bring you closer to your climbing dreams and shower you with unforgettable adventures. Let me know in the comments what your 2024 climbing goals are!

In climbing and life, the summit is just one part of the journey. Enjoy every step toward it.

Happy Climbing in the New Year! 🧗‍♂️✨

Previous
Previous

Snowflakes and Steel: A Frosty Via Ferrata Adventure in the Lake District

Next
Next

A Hidden Gem of Snowdonia! The Rickety Walkway of Fisherman’s Path