Bouldering is like solving a math problem...

Not until a recent bouldering session with my good friend did I realize the similarities between bouldering and solving math problems. Stick with me here. A bouldering route is comprised of holds layed out in a pattern. Each bouldering route has a starting position. Once you have officially started it is up to the climber to figure out her way to the end of the route; the top. Let’s slow down for a moment though. I want to argue that there is a climb within the climb. For each hold presents a unique challenge (problem) based on its type (crimps, jugs, slopers…just to name a few), size, and position on the wall. In order to progress on the boulder route the climber must successfully use technique on both hand and footholds. Now let’s talk about math problems. In order to solve a math problem successfully you need to know how many steps are involved and what specific work is required. Is a one-step problem? Multistep? Is multiplication needed? Division? Both? Do you know how to multiply? Do you know how to divide?

In the video I am sharing with this post I am trying to stay present; focused only on the holds in front of me. I am trying to use proper technique so that I feel secure enough to proceed. This takes a tremendous amount of practice and trust in the technique; especially when the holds in front of you are difficult. I will never succeed if my mind is on the last hold or the hold before it. Like a three step math problem, you cannot go to the last step first or the one before it. You have to stay present; focused only on the first step. You have to trust that you know how to do the work required so that you can move on to the next step.