Setting Goals for Your Upcoming Climbing Season
Setting structured goals for the upcoming season is key to continued progress. Whether you want to send your first 5.12, improve your lead climbing confidence, or master a new technique, having a clear strategy will keep you focused and motivated.
Process Goals vs. Outcome Goals
When setting climbing goals, it’s helpful to distinguish between process goals and outcome goals:
Outcome goals are the results you want to achieve, such as sending a particular route or placing in a competition.
Process goals focus on the actions needed to reach that result, such as training three times per week or improving footwork efficiency.
Balancing both is crucial—outcome goals provide motivation, while process goals ensure steady improvement.
Setting S.M.A.R.T. Goals
To make your goals effective, use the S.M.A.R.T. framework:
Specific – Clearly define what you want to accomplish. Instead of saying, “I want to climb harder,” set a goal like, “I want to send a 5.12a route by the end of the season.”
Measurable – Track progress with benchmarks, such as the number of successful redpoints or improved endurance on the hangboard.
Achievable – Set realistic goals based on your current abilities. Stretch goals are great, but avoid setting yourself up for frustration.
Relevant – Ensure your goals align with your climbing aspirations, whether it’s sport climbing, trad, or bouldering.
Time-bound – Establish a deadline to maintain focus and urgency. For example, “By September, I want to complete three outdoor projects graded V5.”
Balancing Mental, Physical, and Technical Goals
Climbing isn’t just about strength—it requires mental resilience, technique, and endurance. Consider setting goals in the following three key areas. The bullet points listed are examples, create goals that are specific to you!
1. Mental Goals
Improve lead climbing confidence by engaging in regular fall practice.
Reduce fear of exposure by gradually increasing climb heights.
Develop a pre-climb visualization routine to enhance focus.
2. Physical Goals
Increase finger strength by consistently training your fingers in a structured way a couple times per week.
Improve endurance by completing a set number of laps while climbing in the gym.
Enhance strength and resilience with a structured workout plan.
3. Technical Goals
Master body tension and heel hooks through dedicated drills.
Improve efficiency by refining footwork and route-reading skills.
Learn how to place trad gear quickly and confidently to increase efficiency while crack climbing.
Setting an Intention for Each Climbing Day
In addition to long-term goals, setting an intention for each climbing session or attempt can help you stay focused and engaged. Before you start climbing, take a moment to consider what you want to achieve that day. Your intention might be:
Practicing a specific technique, such as precise foot placements or dynamic moves.
Working on mental aspects, like managing fear or staying present on the wall.
Use tactics to help you feel good throughout the day, such as eating quality food between burns or making time for an effective warm up.
Having a clear intention helps to maximize each session, and focus on small wins even if you don’t send a project that day.
Reflecting on Each Climbing Session
After each session, take some time to reflect on what went well and what could be improved. Keeping a climbing journal or using an app can help track progress. Consider the following questions:
What did I do well today?
What was challenging, and how can I adjust my approach next time?
Did I stay committed to my intention for the session?
What adjustments can I make in my training or mindset?
Reflection allows you to learn from each climbing day and continuously refine your approach, ensuring steady growth throughout the season.
Tracking Progress and Adjusting Goals
Once you’ve set your goals, keep a climbing journal or use an app to track your progress. If you’re struggling with a goal, adjust it rather than abandon it entirely—progress in climbing is rarely linear. Celebrate small wins, stay adaptable, and remember that humility, effort over time, and patience are huge!
By setting well-structured goals and focusing on the journey and the outcome, you’ll maximize your improvement this season and beyond. Now, get out there and crush it!
