A quick check list of techniques to take you from the gym to the crag.
So you have been hitting the gym on top rope for quite some time now! You want to see what mother nature has in store for you, but your reluctant. The rock outside isn't painted to tell you exactly where to grab, and step. I've put together a quick list of tricks that you should have in the bag before you go outside.
Before I begin it is hard to say that outdoor climbing is better than indoor climbing, or harder, but one thing is fact. Routes outside are rated easier than a route indoors. It does not mean they are going to be necessarily more technical, but rather there is more to put into consideration when climbing outside. You have to read the routes yourself. There isn't a setter taping out the lines for you to climb. If you have a pretty good understanding on how to read routes keep reading! If not. Take a break, and check back in a week when I discuss how to read routes.
First thing you should have down is smearing! If you are not comfortable and have nearly 100% trust in your smear. Keep practicing, but if you do, take a look at what a drop knee is. It sounds a lot harder than what it really is, but all you need to do is pivot on your toe while pointing your knee to the ground. This will help you out especially when there is a hold that is just too far away. Dropping the knee keeps you close to the wall helping you stretch out further. Take a look at the video below to get a nice walk through.
The next thing you should really get down is heel and toe hooks. They are exactly what they sound like. Using your toe or heel to hook your body on a hold. They are great for getting your hips above and over overhanging walls. Think of your feet as if you were a sloth. You'd creep your foot up over the wall, hooking the hold with your heel, as you push down and swing your hips up! Take a look at the video below for a refresher!
There really is not much a difference in outdoor and indoor climbing. For some reason there is some psych about climbing outdoors since your routes aren't written out for you, but if you are able to get over that psych you're golden to climb the great outdoors. Swing by my Twitter to see more tips to take out to the crag, and like my Facebook and follow to read more on getting the most out of your climbing!