Science of Climbing

Discover the science needed to grip and move more effectively, endure for longer, and scale new heights of climbingA great climber requires complete bodily control: to understand what each muscle and joint can do – as well as their limits – in order to correctly judge and execute the next move.Science of Climbing gets under the skin of the sport and anatomises what it takes to achieve your climbing goals.Discover deep analysis of different grip positions and footwork moves and how they combine to form climbing techniques deployed on the wall or rock face.Practise targeted strength training exercises, starting with finger strength and encompassing all muscle groups recruited for climbing, and mobility exercises to help achieve and maintain the fullest range of motion.Learn climbing scenarios and strategies for plotting a route and selecting the right techniques to overcome obstructions and keep a grip.Explore the science and practice of conquering fear, managing stress, and maintaining concentration for effective decision making.Follow training plans targeting different abilities that combine on-wall and rock-face practice with strength, mobility, and aerobic sessions.

Dr. Kevin Cowell, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT, CSCS is the Founder of The Climb Clinic and is nationally and internationally recognized for helping climbers return stronger, move better, and perform at a high level. With 7+ years of climbing-specific rehab experience, he works with everyone from recreational climbers to elite and Olympic athletes. He is an Arc’teryx Climbing PT and serves as a USA Paraclimbing Team Physical Therapist, supporting adaptive athletes at the highest level of the sport. Dr. Cowell earned his Bachelor of Science in Applied Health from Azusa Pacific University and his Doctor of Physical Therapy from Regis University. He completed advanced post-doctoral training and is a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist (OCS), Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Manual Physical Therapists (FAAOMPT), Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and holds advanced certifications in dry needling, manipulation, ultrasound-guided techniques, and Osteopractic.