“Joining a climbing gym” now sits among phrases I never anticipated uttering—particularly the follow-through. Ten visits in my first month transformed suspicion into habit. My name is Spencer Spellman, and I acknowledge my condition. Outdoor enthusiasm has always defined me, yet climbing occupied peripheral vision at best. Falling onto snow from snowboards or water from […]
Conquering the Fear of Falling in Climbing
Fear of falling is something that every climber, regardless of experience, grapples with. It can be one of the most daunting aspects of climbing, yet it’s essential to remember that falling is a fundamental part of the sport. Learning to practice falls is a vital skill that every climber should develop. First and foremost, practicing […]
Central Rock Gym Opens in Troy, New York
Central Rock Gym (CRG) has expanded its presence with the launch of its new location in Troy, New York, which opened on July 12, 2025. Founded by Ed and Joe Hardy, CRG began its journey in 2009 with its first gym in Worcester, Massachusetts. Since then, the chain has rapidly grown to include 30 locations […]
Mastering Foam Rolling: Your Guide to Myofascial Release
Foam rolling serves as a powerful form of myofascial release, targeting the fascia—the connective tissues enveloping your muscles. Over time, these tissues can become tight and unhealthy due to overuse or injury. The primary aim of foam rolling is to alleviate muscle and fascia tension, promoting greater flexibility and reducing soreness in your joints. In […]
Injury Prevention for Indoor Climbers: Stay Strong and Safe
In the world of climbing, the thrill and excitement come hand in hand with the risk of injury. At The Climbing Hangar, we understand that no one wants to be sidelined by strains or sprains. With that in mind, we present essential strategies for indoor climbers, from beginners to seasoned veterans, to maintain their climbing […]
How to Improve Your Climbing Technique
Great climbing isn’t just about strength. In fact, the biggest difference between average climbers and advanced ones is often efficiency. Climbers who move well waste less energy, stay calmer on the wall, and complete routes that feel impossible to others. Technique allows you to climb harder grades without necessarily becoming stronger. It also reduces fatigue […]
Strengthening Your Ankles: Essential Warmups and Exercises
When considering areas of the body to strengthen, many focus on major joints like the shoulders and hips. However, **strong ankles are crucial for overall stability and performance**. Weak ankles can lead to instability in the knees and hips, resulting in poor running and climbing techniques. Think about it: fragile ankles struggle on small holds, […]
Climbing Gym Etiquette: Essential Rules for New Climbers
Welcome to the climbing gym! We understand that stepping into a new environment can be intimidating, especially when it feels like everyone knows the unspoken rules except you. To ease your transition, we’ve compiled a list of essential climbing etiquette that will help you navigate the space confidently. Empty Your Pockets and Remove Jewelry Before […]