My Training Plog: October 2025

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow   In this Pro Clinic, Dr. Tyler Nelson digs into recent scientific studies to explore: What 'masters athletes' can do to maintain or build strength Why losing strength with age is not inevitable How to maintain strong tendons with age How to get strong without getting big  What younger climbers can do to prep for their older years Specific protocols for strength, power, and hypertrophy Sets and reps schemes for a 5-day program How to keep strength and power up during a climbing season The fallacy of fatigue  Large vs small muscle group programming When to focus on power vs strength in season Winter programming Should we lift before or after climbing? How to build power as part of a climbing warmup  Hang board protocols for strength and health  Nutrition, supplements, and sleep guidelines for aging athletes   HERE is a fantastic article Tyler wrote about the subject, to support what was covered in this interview   Other episodes about strength and power to check out: Dr. Tyler Nelson on Finger Strength Dr. Tyler Nelson on Power Dr. Tyler Nelson Q&A  Dr. Natasha Barnes on Strength Training Colin and Jesse of C4HP on Strength Training - Gain instant access to the FULL Pro Clinic by supporting the show as a Patron (you can even check it out for FREE with a 7-day trial): https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:00 Introduction: Stronger at 43 00:27 Welcome to the Struggle Climbing Show 00:38 Defying Aging: Science and Strength 02:09 Understanding Aging Athletes 02:32 Specific Training Programs for Older Climbers 18:46 The Importance of Tendon Health 25:59 Programming for Aging Athletes 26:21 Conclusion and Membership Information - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Follow along on Instagram and YouTube: @thestruggleclimbingshow  - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation and is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. - The struggle makes us stronger! Let's get out there and try hard. Thanks for supporting the show, y'all.  - And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much!   

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow - In this episode, pro climber Ethan Pringle explores: Dealing with discomfort Releasing mental baggage Struggling with self-image Prioritizing outdoor climbing over indoor training  What he and Sharma have in common Going back for unfinished business  Goals for Meltdown and La Rambla The benefit of discovering “tired beta” What the best boulderers do   There’s always better beta. Always.  A sport climber's mentality for bouldering  Managing risk and fear on scary boulders - BIG THANKS TO THE AMAZING SPONSORS OF THE STRUGGLE WHO LOVE ROCK CLIMBING AS MUCH AS YOU DO: PhysiVantage: the official climbing-nutrition sponsor of The Struggle. Use code STRUGGLE15 at checkout for 15% off your full-priced nutrition order. ForceBoard: A better way to train fingers. Portable, accurate, and created to train finger strength and endurance exactly how YOU need it. Score $10 off and support the show by using code STRUGGLE10 at checkout. Rúngne: Soft threads and high performing chalk! Use Code STRUGGLE for 10% Off Bags, Buckets, Chalk & Apparel from Rúngne! Rungne.com Nature Climbing: Beautifully crafted lifting edges and hangboards that feature real granite edges for improved texture and skin conditioning. Sustainably crafted works of art, I love them so much! Get 20% off everything at natureclimbing.com using code STRUGGLE.  And check out ALL the show’s awesome sponsors and exclusive deals at thestruggleclimbingshow.com/deals   - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:00 Introduction 01:26 Ethan Pringle's Climbing Achievements 02:49 Deep Dive into Climbing Philosophy 04:25 Interview Begins: Ethan's Background and Struggles 12:03 Mindset and Emotional Challenges in Climbing 56:09 Unlocking Beta: The Key to Climbing Success 57:42 The Philosophy of Constant Refinement 01:00:23 Creative Solutions and Beta Breakthroughs 01:03:37 The Importance of Strategy and Tactics 01:19:11 Managing Fear and Mental Barriers in Climbing - Follow along on Instagram @thestruggleclimbingshow and YouTube /@thestruggleclimbingshow - The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation, whose mission is to promote solar energy for a more equitable world. - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. - The struggle makes us stronger! I hope your training and climbing are going great.  - And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much! 

Casually reflecting on my training, performance, and experimentation for the month, including: Recap of November goals (hits and misses) Learnings from my second 12c What being "board strong" has meant for my route climbing  What it took to send 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d in the past 6 weeks My first session on Bulldog boulder (V6 / V8) How I'm adjusting my training during this performance window The fear factor of trying higher moves on a boulder Patron questions December goals Thank you so much for supporting me. I love hearing what you're up to, so feel free to hit me up on IG. Have an awesome month!

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow   In this special Listener Q&A episode, Coach Tom Randall explores: Improving endurance by getting stronger  How to self assess weaknesses  Is there such thing as “active rest”? Developing beginner crack skills  Periodization for gym climbers  Which crack size is the best to train  What standard tests should climbers do How often should we test finger strength Building a cheap crack trainer at home Correlation between finger strength and climbing grade  Plus a bonus episode about free soloing buildings, and the mega building Alex Honnold will be soloing in January! - BIG THANKS TO THE AMAZING SPONSORS OF THE STRUGGLE WHO LOVE ROCK CLIMBING AS MUCH AS YOU DO: PhysiVantage: the official climbing-nutrition sponsor of The Struggle. Use code STRUGGLE15 at checkout for 15% off your full-priced nutrition order. Rúngne: Soft threads and high performing chalk! Use Code STRUGGLE for 10% Off Bags, Buckets, Chalk & Apparel from Rúngne! ForceBoard: A better way to train fingers. Portable, accurate, and created to train finger strength and endurance exactly how YOU need it. Score $10 off and support the show by using code STRUGGLE10 at checkout. Nature Climbing: Beautifully crafted lifting edges and hangboards that feature real granite edges for improved texture and skin conditioning. Sustainably crafted works of art, I love them so much! Get 20% off everything at natureclimbing.com using code STRUGGLE.   And check out ALL the show’s awesome sponsors and exclusive deals at thestruggleclimbingshow.com/deals - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:42 Listener Questions Overview 02:20 Personal Climbing Journey 03:22 Reconnecting with Tom Randall 04:36 Tom Randall's Training Insights 15:21 Self-Assessing Climbing Weaknesses 25:37 Active Rest and Recovery Tips 30:31 Learning Crack Climbing 36:54 Periodization for Gym Climbers 39:05 Adapting to Training and Periodization 42:03 Indoor vs. Outdoor Climbing 45:09 Crack Climbing Techniques and Training 47:46 Testing Metrics and Their Importance 53:52 Urban Crack Climbing and Unique Locations 55:30 Listener Q&A: Training and Climbing Insights 01:07:49 Encouraging Gyms to Set Crack Boulders 01:11:18 Conclusion and Bonus Content Announcement   - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Follow along on Instagram and YouTube: @thestruggleclimbingshow  - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation and is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much!

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow - In this skin care masterclass, Mads Bülow Duus from Nature Climbing and Justin Brown from Rhino Skin Solutions cover: Why skin care can be the difference maker What bad climbing skin looks like  What good climbing skin looks like How to bring skin humidity down How to to bring skin humidity up How to condition skin for specific types of rock When to prep skin (and how) for a big trip Protocol for using real rock edges and holds in training  How to treat a split or flapper - Get 20% off at Nature Climbing and Rhino Skin Solutions by using code STRUGGLE  - And check out ALL the show’s awesome sponsors and exclusive deals at thestruggleclimbingshow.com/deals   - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right)   00:49 The Importance of Skin in Climbing 01:16 Ryan's Climbing Journey and Podcast 03:09 Meet the Skin Experts: Mads and Justin 06:28 Justin's Background and Rhino Skin Solutions 09:43 Mads' Background and Nature Climbing 11:58 Skin Preparation and Conditioning 18:18 Understanding Skin Types and Their Impact 22:50 Pre-Trip Skin Preparation Protocols 38:53 Managing Dry Skin for Climbers 42:06 Introduction to Spit and Its Ingredients 42:35 Application and Benefits of Spit for Climbers 43:18 Challenges of Climbing in Extreme Conditions 44:10 Skin Conditioning and Pain Tolerance Protocols 44:45 Training and Preparation for Climbing Trips 45:40 Managing Skin Health During Climbing Trips 48:37 Importance of Repair and Performance Creams 49:29 Using Stone Hangers and Warm-Up Techniques 52:12 Handling Skin Splits and Injuries 58:16 Choosing the Right Hang Board and Training Tools 01:03:59 Sustainability and New Products from Rhino and Nature Climbing 01:07:21 Personal Climbing Experiences and Final Thoughts     - Follow along on Instagram @thestruggleclimbingshow and YouTube /@thestruggleclimbingshow - The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation, whose mission is to promote solar energy for a more equitable world. - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. - The struggle makes us stronger! I hope your training and climbing are going great.  - And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much! 

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow   In this episode of the Weekend Warrior series, busy-dad climber Joey Churchman joins to discuss: How he broke into new grades on just 3 hours per week at the gym Tall-climber struggles (he's 6' 6.5") Big gains using a training app to stay focused and efficient  From avoiding system boards to training almost exclusively on them How he programs his gym sessions and home training for optimal results  Picking the right project to break into V7 and 5.12a Top-roping tactics for faster sends  Using video to accelerate progress  - BIG THANKS TO THE AMAZING SPONSORS OF THE STRUGGLE WHO LOVE ROCK CLIMBING AS MUCH AS YOU DO: PhysiVantage: the official climbing-nutrition sponsor of The Struggle. Use code STRUGGLE15 at checkout for 15% off your full-priced nutrition order. Rúngne: Soft threads and high performing chalk! Use Code STRUGGLE for 10% Off Bags, Buckets, Chalk & Apparel from Rúngne! SCARPA: The best climbing shoes, trail runners, and hikers in the game! Score yourself a free SCARPA x STRUGGLE hat when you use code STRUGGLE at checkout at SCARPA.com. SCARPA, No Place Too Far. Petzl: The best and most reliable helmets, harnesses, draws, and gear that'll help you to Access the Inaccessible. Find Petzl at your local gear shop, and learn more at Petzl.com   And check out ALL the show’s awesome sponsors and exclusive deals at thestruggleclimbingshow.com/deals - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:25 Meet Joey Churchman: The Weekend Warrior 01:45 Balancing Climbing with Family and Work 03:03 Ryan's Personal Climbing Update 03:56 Joey's Climbing Background and Challenges 06:59 Training and Progression 14:44 Board Climbing Journey 20:27 Efficient Training Strategies 34:28 The Benefits of Running for Climbers 35:59 Balancing Fitness and Family 36:12 Running and Strength Conditioning Routine 37:38 Translating Training to Rock Climbing 39:38 Breaking into 5.12 Grades 47:16 Mental Strategies and Visualization 55:06 Bouldering with Family 59:06 Efficient Training and Video Analysis 01:04:07 Future Goals and Reflections 01:07:24 Host's Personal Climbing Update   - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Follow along on Instagram and YouTube: @thestruggleclimbingshow  - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation and is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much! 

Casually reflecting on my training, performance, and experimentation for the month, including: Recap of October goals (hits and misses) Learnings from sending my second 12d How I'm adjusting my training as I get into outdoor season Why general goals don't seem to be working for me Climbing fast like Hamish McArthur How I structure my week to fit in work, family, and climbing Patron questions November goals Thank you so much for supporting me. I love hearing what you're up to, so feel free to hit me up on IG. Have an awesome month!

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow   In this Pro Clinic, Dr. David Spiegel of Stanford University School of Medicine and founder of Reveri discusses: What hypnosis is and isn't How to access flow state more often Using self-hypnosis to manage fear of falling How to reduce the pain response on and off route Breaking bad habits in as little as one session Using a 10-min protocol to improve focus and productivity How to manage the stress of climbing and beyond Getting to sleep faster, and back to sleep after waking in the night Controlling HRV using self-hypnosis   Score a 7-day free trial and 20% off your subscription to the Reveri app using code STRUGGLE at reveri.com - Gain instant access to the FULL Pro Clinic by supporting the show as a Patron (you can even check it out for FREE with a 7-day trial): https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:00 Introduction: Overcoming Mental Challenges in Climbing 01:14 Meet Dr. David Spiegel: Expert in Psychiatry and Hypnosis 01:46 Understanding Hypnosis and Its Applications 02:52 Personal Experiences and Misconceptions About Hypnosis 06:47 The Science Behind Hypnosis 11:35 Hypnosis for Pain Management and Performance Enhancement 20:24 Practical Applications of Hypnosis in Climbing 32:40 Exploring the Reveri App for Self-Hypnosis 35:52 Conclusion and How to Access More Content - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Follow along on Instagram and YouTube: @thestruggleclimbingshow  - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation and is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. - The struggle makes us stronger! Let's get out there and try hard. Thanks for supporting the show, y'all.  - And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much!   

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow   In this latest installment of the Road To series, Coach Nate Drolet joins to explore: Are bouldering and route climbing goals at odds? Why having endurance can help with board climbing and bouldering What he recommends for my training schedule this season The risk of trying to peak too early in the season  A top rope drill to learn how to climb faster and mentally manage the pump The 3 types of routes that are best suited for boulderers Whether I should try to push my sport grade this season or not  The Chattanooga V8 he thinks could be my perfect fit - BIG THANKS TO THE AMAZING SPONSORS OF THE STRUGGLE WHO LOVE ROCK CLIMBING AS MUCH AS YOU DO: PhysiVantage: the official climbing-nutrition sponsor of The Struggle. Use code STRUGGLE15 at checkout for 15% off your full-priced nutrition order. Rúngne: Soft threads and high performing chalk! Use Code STRUGGLE for 10% Off Bags, Buckets, Chalk & Apparel from Rúngne!   And check out ALL the show’s awesome sponsors and exclusive deals at thestruggleclimbingshow.com/deals - Here are some AI generated show notes (hopefully the robots got it right) 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:54 Seasonal Climbing Goals 02:17 Balancing Bouldering and Sport Climbing 03:17 Training Techniques and Drills 04:46 Personal Climbing Updates 22:50 Climbing Community and Social Dynamics 24:10 Sponsorship and Product Endorsements 39:55 Climbing Without Chalk: Embracing Discomfort 40:53 The Mental Game: Embracing Uncomfortable Climbing 43:47 Experimenting with Climbing Techniques 47:21 Training and Endurance: Insights and Tips 51:50 Route Recommendations and Climbing Strategies 57:35 Exploring New Climbing Locations 57:58 Bouldering Projects and Training Plans 01:05:01 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Follow along on Instagram and YouTube: @thestruggleclimbingshow  - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation and is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much! 

Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!  https://www.patreon.com/thestruggleclimbingshow - Emily Harrington, Kai Lightner, and Anna Hazelnutt team up for a live podcast from iconic Miguel's Pizza to kick off Rocktoberfest! We grab a slice and a beer, then dive into: Memories from first trip to the Red How to work through the mental discomfort of pump Fear of falling and how the pros handle it What solidified climbing as their passion in life USA Climbing's ban on trans athlete competitors How becoming a parent impacts climbing performance and adventures How to become a professional climber Climbing pet peeves - BIG THANKS TO THESE SPONSORS FOR SUPPORTING ROCKTOBERFEST AND BRINGING YOU THIS EPISODE AD-FREE: PhysiVantage: the official climbing-nutrition sponsor of The Struggle. Use code STRUGGLE15 at checkout for 15% off your full-priced nutrition order. SCARPA: The best climbing shoes, trail runners, and hikers in the game! Score yourself a free SCARPA x STRUGGLE hat when you use code STRUGGLE at checkout at SCARPA.com. SCARPA, No Place Too Far. Petzl: The best and most reliable helmets, harnesses, draws, and gear that'll help you to Access the Inaccessible. Find Petzl at your local gear shop, and learn more at Petzl.com Rhino Skin Solutions: Perform, Cleanse, Repair… repeat! Amazing skin care products crafted specifically for climbers, whether you’re pulling hard indoors or out. Use code STRUGGLE to score a whopping 20% off your purchase!    And a huge shoutout to the RRGCC for making Rocktoberfest happen. Please support their work with a monthly donation like I do, if you can! - Shoutout to Matt Waltereese for being a Victory Whip supporter on Patreon! So mega. - Follow along on Instagram @thestruggleclimbingshow and YouTube /@thestruggleclimbingshow - The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation, whose mission is to promote solar energy for a more equitable world. - This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry. - The struggle makes us stronger! I hope your training and climbing are going great.  - And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much!