Training for climbing on multi-day trips in remote crags can be a challenge. Without access to your regular training facilities, it can feel like a long wait before you can dial in your finger strength and endurance again. However, with a portable hangboard system, you can continue to train your fingers and forearms on the go, keeping your climbing performance up even while away from home.
In this blog post, we'll guide you through building a simple yet effective portable hangboard system that you can take on your multi-day climbing trips. Whether you're camping near a crag or doing a backcountry adventure, this system will help you stay sharp.
Materials Needed for Your Portable Hangboard System
Before you start, gather the following materials:
- Hangboard : Choose a lightweight, compact hangboard, such as the Beastmaker 1000 or Rock Prodigy . These models are popular for being portable and highly effective for training.
- Strong Rope or Webbing : You'll need a strong, durable rope or webbing to suspend your hangboard. 8mm-10mm static rope or 1-inch webbing are great choices. They should be able to support your body weight without stretching too much.
- Carabiners : At least two locking carabiners to secure your rope or webbing.
- Prusik Knot/Prusik Loop : This knot will allow you to adjust the height of your hangboard by tying the rope to a fixed point, like a tree or an overhead rock feature.
- Tree or Anchor Point : You'll need a sturdy anchor point like a tree, a large boulder, or any other overhead feature that can support your weight.
- Climbing Tape (optional): For added comfort, you can tape up the edges of the hangboard or make makeshift grips from tape.
Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Portable Hangboard System
1. Choose the Right Anchor Point
The key to a portable hangboard system is securing it at the right height and in a safe manner. Look for a strong tree or overhanging rock that can support the weight of the hangboard and your body. Ideally, the anchor should be around 7--9 feet off the ground to allow for comfortable hanging.
2. Prepare the Rope or Webbing
Cut your rope or webbing to the desired length. Typically, a 10--15-foot rope is sufficient, depending on how high your anchor point is. Fold your rope/webbing in half, creating a loop that will be used to suspend the hangboard.
3. Secure the Rope/Webbing to the Anchor Point
Use a strong knot , such as a bowline knot or figure-eight knot , to securely tie one end of the rope to the anchor point. Ensure the knot is tight and the rope is securely fastened to the tree or rock.
4. Attach the Hangboard
Now, attach your hangboard to the free end of the rope/webbing using the locking carabiners. Use a Prusik knot or a figure-eight knot to tie the loop around the hangboard, securing it firmly. This setup will allow you to adjust the height by sliding the Prusik knot up or down the rope.
- Tip : If you don't want to make a permanent knot, you can also use a quickdraw to attach the hangboard to the rope, providing an adjustable system.
5. Adjust the Height
Once the hangboard is secured, adjust its height to a comfortable level. Ideally, the hangboard should be at shoulder height when you're standing underneath it. This allows you to hang fully without your feet touching the ground. You can adjust the height by either sliding the Prusik knot or by adjusting the slack in the rope/webbing.
6. Test the System
Before fully committing to your training, do a quick test by pulling lightly on the hangboard to ensure that all knots and carabiners are secure. Check for any slack or weaknesses in the rope/webbing and make adjustments as necessary. It's important that the system feels stable and secure, especially if you plan to hang your full body weight on it.
7. Start Training
Now that your hangboard system is set up, you're ready to start training. You can do basic hangs, fingerboard exercises, and endurance training on your portable hangboard. It's also helpful to use climbing tape on the hangboard to protect your fingers and provide extra grip, especially if you're training on rough or slippery wood.
Tips for Training on the Go
- Take Care of Your Fingers : Finger injuries are common in climbing, and training without proper care can worsen existing issues. Warm up thoroughly before each session and cool down after. Don't push through pain---always listen to your body.
- Limit Your Sessions : Since you're training in a remote environment, it's easy to overdo it. Stick to short, focused training sessions (20--30 minutes) to avoid fatigue or injury.
- Integrate Full Body Training : Use your portable system as part of a broader training regimen that includes endurance climbing, core strengthening, and mobility work.
- Stay Consistent : Even on multi-day trips, consistency is key. If you can, aim to train for 10--20 minutes every day to maintain strength, rather than cramming long sessions into a few days.
Conclusion
Building a portable hangboard system for remote crag training allows you to stay in peak climbing shape, even on multi-day trips in the wilderness. With a few basic materials, you can create an effective training tool that fits into your camping gear, letting you continue your training regardless of where you are. Whether you're working on your finger strength or endurance, a portable hangboard system will keep you ready for the next big climb, no matter how far you are from civilization.
With the right setup, you can train effectively, even in the wild! So, next time you head out for a multi-day trip, don't forget to pack your hangboard system and keep those climbing muscles in check.