Sport Climbing once was a fringe sport in Australia but with the addition of climbing to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games more participants are starting to climb – especially women.
“Suddenly, I found myself ‘training’ for climbing and trying to find new ways to get strong. There really are no cheat ways to get strong at climbing, you just need time on the wall - something I am still learning.”
Anna spends two to three hours, five days a week training strength and power, projecting, endurance, movement and rehabilitation.
“Generally, each day consists of a 30 min floor warm up followed by 1.5-2 hours of climbing and then a quick cool down and stretch,” Anna said.
“Some sessions aren’t based on the wall but on a campus board or finger board.”
Leading up to competitions, Anna tapers training around three weeks prior to the event.
“The week before I will drop a whole day of training,” she said,
“I try to do lots of movement sessions focusing on competition moves such as dynamic power and coordination.”
Sport Climbing Australia will soon be announcing the official Australia team and, if successful, Anna will start preparing for World Cup and World Championships next year.
“If I am not, then it’s back to the grind. I’ll do the lead season and another boulder season to qualify for worlds in 2020,” she said.
Anna said one of the key drivers behind her training is that the sport is never boring and you never sop learning and progressing.
“Every day climbing is a challenge and a competition against your mind and body,” she said.
“Climbing can make you feel strong, powerful, elated, successful, belonging and goal focused. It will bring you into the happiest of cultures where you will meet life long friends and training partners.
“The problem-solving aspect will take you away from your daily issues. You will likely climb until you die, as it is an addiction.”
For women thinking about climbing Naomi recommends just heading to your local climbing gym and having a go.
“Climbing is accessible for all levels of ability and is a great fun activity as well as a sport,” she said.
“It’s also a great way to socialise with friends as well as an opportunity to enjoy our great outdoors.”
Related Articles

Australia Winter Olympics gold-medal drought ended by Jakara Anthony

Updated: Australia's Olympic curling pioneers get two wins after 'late reprieve'
