Avoid Early Season Injury

Warmer days in the mountains mean climbing season is finally here. It's time to drag out the crash pads (if you ever put them away) and start hunting for projects. Don't wreck your season before it starts. It's best to maintain your strength during the off-season by developing a plan to maintain fitness over time and ease back in to avoid injury.

"We know that the best way to stay healthy is to stay fit all season long," says Climbing Injury Specialist, Eric Hörst. "Don't get sooooo psyched during the season that you neglect your off-season fitness."

Training in the off-season helps climbers improve their climbing, get stronger, work on endurance and prevent injuries. Hörst recommends a series of exercises you can do anywhere, especially if you're traveling for climbing. "They are simple and low-impact," he says.

By working on your strength in the off-season and during the season it will make a huge difference in how hard you climb and how much you improve. If you took time away from climbing, plan on easing back and save your projects for later in the season.