05/20/2026
No matter what level you’re climbing at, understanding different foot positions can seriously improve your movement, balance, and efficiency!
A toe hook uses the top of your toes and forefoot to pull against a hold. Instead of letting your body swing away from the wall, toe hooks help keep your hips in close and create tension through your core.
Heel hooks are an active move: engage your hamstrings and glutes to pull your body toward the wall and drive your movement upwards.
Smearing is all about trusting friction. Press your rubber into the wall (not just down) to create oppositional force between your feet and your hips.
Bat hangs use double toe hooks to let climbers reposition on steep terrain without relying on their hands. They’re a great example of how strong foot engagement and core control can completely change your movement options.
Looking to unlock toe jams? Insert your toe sideways into a crack, then rotate your knee inward to cam the shoe in place!
Climbing gets a lot more fun once you understand what your feet are actually doing. If you’re looking for movement tips this season, check out our Summer Camps for kiddos, or Climbing Technique and Movement for adult learners!
