Traveling climbers often struggle to maintain their strength and skill when away from familiar climbing gyms or outdoor crags. However, with a portable hangboard system, you can stay in shape and keep your fingers strong no matter where your adventures take you. Building your own portable hangboard is an excellent way to achieve this goal without carrying bulky equipment. In this article, we'll guide you through the steps to create a functional and efficient portable hangboard system for solo training on the road.
Why Use a Hangboard?
Hangboarding is a simple yet effective way to improve finger strength, grip, and overall climbing performance. It allows you to work on specific holds and grips that mimic what you encounter on the rock. Additionally, using a hangboard can help prevent injuries by strengthening the tendons and muscles used in climbing. Having a portable version means you can train anywhere, whether you're in a hotel room, at a campsite, or simply away from your regular climbing routine.
Materials Needed
To build a portable hangboard system, you'll need the following materials:
- Hangboard : Choose a lightweight, compact hangboard that suits your training needs. Look for options with various holds, such as slopers, crimps, and pinches.
- Wooden Board : A sturdy piece of plywood or a similar material (about 2 feet long and 1 foot wide) to serve as the mounting surface for your hangboard.
- Carabiners : A couple of durable carabiners to secure the hangboard to your anchor point.
- Webbing or Climbing Rope : Strong webbing or climbing rope to create a suspension system. Ensure it is rated for climbing use.
- Sling or Strap : A climbing sling or strap to attach the hangboard to trees, poles, or other sturdy structures.
- Drill and Screws : A drill with appropriate bits and screws to attach the hangboard to the wooden board securely.
- Sandpaper or File : To smooth any rough edges on the wooden board.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Wooden Board
Start by cutting the wooden board to your desired size (approximately 2 feet by 1 foot is ideal). Sand down any rough edges to prevent splinters and ensure safe handling. This board will serve as the mounting surface for your hangboard and provide stability.
2. Attach the Hangboard
Position the hangboard centrally on the wooden board. Use screws to secure the hangboard firmly in place, ensuring it's level and stable. Depending on the design of your hangboard, you may need to pre-drill holes to avoid splitting the wood. Make sure the hangboard is attached tightly, as it will bear your weight during training sessions.
3. Create a Suspension System
To make your hangboard portable, you'll need a suspension system to hang it from various anchor points:
- Cut a length of webbing or climbing rope (about 10-15 feet, depending on your needs) and tie a secure knot at one end. This will be your anchor point.
- If using webbing, consider creating a loop to secure it around trees or poles. For climbing rope, you can use a figure-eight knot for added security.
- Attach a carabiner to the opposite end of the webbing or rope for easy attachment to your hangboard.
4. Test the Setup
Before using your new portable hangboard, find a suitable anchor point to test the setup. Look for a sturdy tree branch, a pole, or any other solid structure that can support your weight.
- Secure the Webbing : Loop the webbing or rope around the anchor point and clip the carabiner into place.
- Adjust the Height : Adjust the height of the hangboard so that it's comfortably accessible when you grip it. Aim for a height that allows your feet to be slightly above the ground when hanging.
- Check Stability : Make sure everything is secure before attempting to hang from the board. Give it a gentle tug to ensure it won't slip or fall.
5. Start Training
Once you've confirmed that the setup is stable, you can start your training session. Here are a few tips for effective hangboard training:
- Warm Up : Always warm up your fingers and arms before hangboarding to prevent injury. Dynamic stretches and light exercises are great for this.
- Focus on Technique : Pay attention to your form and technique while hanging. Keep your shoulders engaged and avoid excessive swinging.
- Vary Your Holds : Use different holds on the hangboard to target various muscle groups and prevent overuse injuries.
- Rest and Recovery : Allow adequate time for recovery between sets. Hangboarding can be intense, so listen to your body and rest as needed.
Conclusion
Building a portable hangboard system for solo training on the road is a rewarding project that can significantly enhance your climbing performance. By following these steps and using the right materials, you can create a convenient and effective training tool that fits easily into your travel plans. With dedication and consistency, your hangboard training will help you maintain and even improve your climbing skills, no matter where your adventures lead. Happy climbing!