03/17/2026
Steep Ice Edition 🧊🧗♂️
Steep ice is way more fun when you’re not fighting for your life halfway up the pitch.
If you’re constantly battling muscle fatigue or full-on screaming barfies… it’s not just “part of climbing.” It’s usually a strength and endurance gap.
Here’s a simple structure we like for steep ice prep:
1️⃣ Loaded Single-Leg Calf Raises (3-sec tempo)
2-3sets of 15-20 reps per side
3 seconds up / 3 seconds down
Build endurance, not speed.
2️⃣ Tempo Romanian Deadlifts (3–1–3)
3–4 sets of 6–8 reps
Controlled hinge. Own the pause.
3️⃣ Active Dead Hangs
Start with a Reverse Tabata:
10 seconds on / 20 seconds off x 8 rounds
Work toward a Full Tabata:
20 seconds on / 10 seconds off x 8 rounds
Bonus: If you can safely hang from your tools, even better.
Stronger calves = longer time on your feet.
Stronger hips = less low-back fatigue.
Stronger grip = more confident swings.
Train smart now… so steep ice feels strong instead of survival mode.
📍 Palmer, AK
📅 Book a PT eval if pain is limiting your season.