Face climbing explained

Face climbing is a type of climbing where climbers use features and irregularities in the rock such as finger pockets and edges to ascend a vertical rock face.[1] Face climbing is contrasted with crack climbing. Face climbing is less reliant upon technique than crack climbing, but instead relies more upon body position.[2]

Techniques

Holds can be used in a variety of ways by your feet and hands as you move up the rock

Manteling

The mantel is a specific use of down-pressure technique. Pushing down with your hands you allow your feet to reach the same hold your hands are on. [3]

Stemming

Stemming is a counterforce technique where you support yourself between two spots by pressing in opposite directions.

Undercling

A hold that requires your palms to face upwards instead of downwards. [4] Your arms will pull while your feet push.

Notes and References

  1. Book: Rock Climbing: Rock Climbing . Timothy W. . Kidd . Jennifer . Hazelrigs . Human Kinetics 10% . 2009 . 9781450409001 . 211 .
  2. Book: Free Climbing With John Bachar . John . Bachar . Steven . Boga . Stackpole Books . 1996 . 5 . 9780811725170 .
  3. Book: Cox, Steven. Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills. Swan Hill Press. 2003. 218.
  4. Book: Bunting, Camille. Interdisciplinary Teaching Through Outdoor Education. Human Kinetics. 2006. 187.