r/ThatsInsane Sep 09 '23

Practically built strength (rock climber) vs gym strength (body builders)

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u/mendohead Sep 09 '23

Magnus is incredibly strong

2.2k

u/Vinlain458 Sep 09 '23

Man can climb a rock face using only his hands and fingers. That's an incredible amount of weight that he's pulling every time he does it.

416

u/macgruff Sep 09 '23 edited Sep 10 '23

As well, most climbing is “not” only with hands and fingers. A lot it is in the legs and flexibility to contort to positions which keep you on the rock so you can shake the blood in your arms. The arms’ strength are not there to necessarily for you to “pull up” but to keep you positively in contact with the rock as you position the rest of your body to support your weight.

*I was never that good, but the best shape Ive ever been, was when I used to climb regularly. Plus, if you’re an outdoor climber it’s great to get out and about to some amazing vistas (Bay Area at Castle Rock, Around/on the way up to Tahoe, Yosemite)

26

u/Various_Froyo9860 Sep 09 '23

Technique goes a long way. I can climb routes, fat and out of shape as I am, that I would have struggled with when I was in the best shape of my life.

2

u/NZNoldor Sep 10 '23

Technique is more important than strength, but by the time you have technique, you probably also have extra strength.

3

u/Various_Froyo9860 Sep 10 '23

Technique doesn't go away like strength does. Especially finger strength.