It’s hot, sticky, humid, there are flies and music festivals: perfect conditions for climbing? #not But you’re probably like me and still want to get your climbing fix. So, there are a few things to keep in mind to make your sessions a bit more enjoyable during the summer months, whether on plastic or rock…

For Gyms

Most climbing gyms are now air-conditioned, so a tropical temperature outside won’t hit you as hard between four walls. However, the heat will still be felt: holds will definitely be harder to grip than if it were 4 degrees. If you want to train for the return of cooler temperatures, go ahead; otherwise, limit the number of slopers you attempt. Your skin might also suffer: a bit more sweat on your fingertips means you risk getting raw skin faster. Again, limit the small crimps you grip. Heat also means dehydration: with everything you’re doing outside, you’re probably sweating a bit more (or a lot more, depending), and thus losing more minerals. A trick that seems to work: take electrolytes before AND during a session. Minerals help muscle contraction, and an imbalance could contribute to (a little?) underperformance. Is this the factor preventing you from sending your V15 project? Maybe…

For Outdoor Climbing

Ah, you are among the brave who want to tackle the rocky blades of the boulders at Val-David, despite the thermometer spiking upward? Okay. Aim for sessions early in the day or at dusk; the cooler temperatures will help a bit. Choose spots with shade, and if needed, opt for shorter sessions. If you’re sport climbing, consider places like Kamouraska, for example, where the fresh river air will give you some relief. Another good tip: split your sessions. Rather than having an epic 6-hour outing that leaves you dehydrated and lethargic, have a short session in the morning, go grill yourself on a beach for a few hours, and then come back to tackle the rock again. For bouldering, small portable fans will provide better conditions – but if it’s 35 degrees, expect only marginal improvement… The same advice about hydration applies.

For Training

Aiming to perform in the fall? Summer is the perfect season to train, lift weights, and work on technique while waiting for the cooler (or colder) days. If it’s your first summer training for the fall, a good way to approach it is to roughly calculate when you want to be at your peak to know how much training time you have. Plan your sessions for the coming weeks, and make sure to reduce the volume as fall approaches – but maintain the intensity of the sessions.