From Climbing · Maya Silver · · 1m 20s
Why Climbing Therapist Wants You to Stop Being Hard on Yourself
Climbing therapist urges climbers to stop self-criticism and embrace mental health.
In brief
Climbing therapist urges climbers to stop self-criticism and embrace mental health. Climbing therapist Joel Robertson and coach Louis Parkinson urge climbers to stop self-criticism and focus on mental health to avoid performance pressure. Originally reported by Climbing.
Climbing Mindset Pressure
Climbers often compare themselves to others and feel pressure to improve their grades.
Grading System Challenges
The Yosemite Decimal System and V-scale create a progress ladder that climbers feel pressured to climb higher.
Climbing Therapist's View
Joel Robertson, a climbing therapist, says mental health and climbing mindset are not separate issues.
Book Release Details
Get a Grip, co-authored by Louis Parkinson and Joel Robertson, was released on October 8, 2026.
Personal Struggles
Parkinson stopped enjoying climbing after years of performance pressure, leading to an identity crisis.
Climbing Mindset Tips
Focus on comparisons that are accurate and valuable, not based on envy or self-pity.
Reframing Thoughts
Reframe negative thoughts like 'I failed' to 'I could climb this route today'.
Pro Climber Insights
Shauna Coxsey emphasizes curiosity over motivation for a strong climbing mindset.
Flow State
Hamish McArthur blacks out during hard climbs to enter a flow state.
Mindset Challenges
Achieving a flow state requires long-term commitment to mental training and quieting the mind.
The big picture
Climbing therapist Joel Robertson and coach Louis Parkinson urge climbers to stop self-criticism and focus on mental health to avoid performance pressure.
