Preparing for Paris 2024: Inside the Training of Climbing Olympians

As the Paris 2024 Olympic Games approach, the spotlight is on athletes and their rigorous training routines. The Independent’s series, ‘How To Train Like An Olympian,’ dives into what it takes to get ready for high-stakes competitions.

In this series, Olympic finalist Erin McNeice, who is just 20 years old, teams up with Tokyo 2020 Olympian, climbing specialist, and 31-year-old, Shauna Coxsey. Together, they reveal some interesting insights about training for such a demanding sport.

Coxsey emphasizes that climbing isn’t just about pulling yourself up with your arms. “Climbing is a full-body sport,” she explains, highlighting how every part of the body is engaged. From fingertips to toes, climbers rely heavily on many muscles, including their brains.

One key aspect that surprises many fans is the importance of strength across the entire body. “There’s this misconception that climbing is all about upper body strength,” Coxsey continues. “It’s as much about lower body strength and core stability as well.” This holistic approach to training is critical for anyone looking to excel in climbing.

For more insights and episodes on how athletes prepare for the Olympics, check out The Independent’s YouTube channel.