127+ Rock Climbing Terms You Need To Know

Climbing can be a dangerous sport if you don't know the proper terminology. This article will cover all of the rock climbing terms (aka rock climbing jargon) that climbers need to know so they can get a better understanding of the sport as well as help them to stay safe when they are indoor or outdoor rock climbing.

127 Rock Climbing Terms You Should Know

1. Aid Rock Climbing

Aid climbing is when a climber utilizes specialized gear and techniques to ascend a route. This method of climbing can be used in areas with difficult terrain that cannot be climbed without special equipment or technical knowledge.

Aid climbers use “aids” such as cams, nuts, pitons, hooks, and other tools to assist them in their ascent. In addition, they use special techniques such as “french free” and “aiding off” to ascend the route.

2. Anchor

An anchor is a point of attachment that holds the rope secure and prevents the climber from falling. It can be natural or man-made and is typically used at the top of a pitch to keep the climbing rope in place.

3. Adaptive Climbing

Adaptive climbing is a form of rock climbing that caters to people with physical disabilities. Specialized rock climbing equipment and techniques are used to enable climbers with certain impairments, such as amputations or paralysis, to participate in the sport.

4. Approach

The approach is the route taken to get to the base of a climb. This is typically done on foot and often involves crossing difficult terrain in order to reach the climbing site.

5. Arête

This term applies to the sharp corner or edge creating an acute angle (90 degrees). For instance, a cleaved edge on two cliff facets meeting at right angles like a building corner and Rebuffat’s Arête in Eldorado Canyon. Difficult arête routes require special skills such as heel hooks, toe scums, and slap moves.

6. Armbar

The armbar is a climbing technique used to gain purchase on an overhanging wall. The climber puts their arms in between two holds, then presses their weight against the wall and uses the friction to move up. This technique can be difficult and requires great core strength and balance.

7. Auto-Lock

Auto-lock is a type of belaying technique. It uses a specialized device that locks the belay when it senses an abrupt change in force (for example, if the climber suddenly falls). This prevents the rope from running through the belay device and keeps the climber safe.

8. Backstep

Backstep is a climbing technique used to gain purchase on an overhanging wall. The climber takes one or two steps backward in order to increase their reach and get higher up the wall.

Backstepping requires good balance and coordination, as the climber must keep their feet securely against the holds.

9. Backup Knot

The Backup Knot is a knot that is tied at the end of a rope in order to provide an additional layer of safety. This knot prevents the climber from falling off the end of the rope if their harness fails. It should be used in conjunction with a standard belay system.

10. Barn Door

The barn door, an off-balance move that involves pivoting on two points of contact, is a maneuver that looks like you are swinging open a large barn door.

11. Belay

A belay is a system used to secure the rope and keep the climber safe. It consists of two pieces of equipment: a belay device and locking carabiner. The climber ties off one end of the rope to their harness and threads it through both devices in order to create a secure loop that will catch them if they fall.

The belayer holds the other end of the rope and manages the slack, controlling the amount of tension on the rope and providing a safeguard in case of a fall.

12. Belay Device

The belay device is a piece of equipment used in conjunction with a locking carabiner to create a secure loop for the climber. It works by allowing the rope to run freely when the climber is climbing, but locks off if there is an abrupt change in force (for example, if the climber suddenly falls).

13. Beta

Beta is information about how to climb a route. It can include technique tips, advice on which holds to use, or even psychological strategies for overcoming difficult sections. It can be gathered from other climbers or from books, videos, and websites.

14. Big Wall Climbing

Big wall climbing is a type of rock climbing that involves scaling large cliffs, usually hundreds or thousands of feet high. It requires advanced techniques and specialized equipment due to its long duration and the necessity for sleeping on the wall overnight.

15. Biner

A biner is short for “carabiner”, a type of metal loop with a spring-loaded gate used to connect pieces of climbing equipment. It is designed to be strong and lightweight, making it an essential part of any climber’s gear.

16. Bolt

A bolt is a piece of metal hardware that is permanently affixed to the rock, usually with epoxy. It provides an anchor point for protection and can be used in combination with quickdraws or slings to create a safe climbing route.

17. Bolted Route

A bolted route is a climbing route that has been equipped with pre-placed bolts for protection. It is usually easier and less risky than traditional (or “trad”) climbing, as the climber does not have to place their own active climbing protection.

18. Bomber/Bomb-Proof

Bomber or bomb-proof describe how reliable and secure a piece of equipment is. This term is usually used to refer to quickdraws, carabiners, belay devices, slings and other pieces of climbing gear that are designed for maximum strength and reliability.

19. Bouldering

Bouldering is a form of rock climbing performed on smaller formations, usually no more than 20 feet high. It requires less equipment than traditional (or “trad”) climbing and can be done without a rope or harness.

Bouldering focuses on technique and problem-solving rather than pure strength. This can be done outside or at a climbing gym.

20. Bouldering Pads

Bouldering pads, or crashpads, are pieces of foam that are used to cushion the landing area around a boulder problem. They provide an extra layer of safety in case of a fall and help to protect the climber from injuries.

21. Boulder Problem

A boulder problem is a route on a bouldering wall that requires the climber to use specific techniques in order to complete it. The difficulty of a boulder problem is rated according to the V-scale, which grades routes from V0 (easiest) to V16 (most difficult).

22. Brake Hand

The brake hand is the hand that holds onto the rope while belaying. It controls how much slack is given to the climber and also serves as a safeguard in case of a fall. The opposite hand, which is used to manage the brake end of the rope, is referred to as the “guide” or “lead” hand.

23. Bucket

A bucket is a large hold that can be used for resting or for setting up protection. It usually refers to either a jug (a big pocket) or an outwardly-displaced hold.

24. Buildering (Urban Climbing)

Buildering is a form of urban climbing that involves scaling buildings, bridges, and other man-made structures. It requires no specialized equipment and can be done with minimal risk if performed safely.

25. Buttress

A buttress is an angled rock face or cliff wall that stands out from the main rock formation. It provides additional protection to climbers, as well as offers more interesting and challenging routes.

26. Cam

A cam is a type of active protection device that uses metal cams to wedge into cracks in the rock face. They expand when loaded, creating a secure anchor point for clipping quickdraws or slings.

27. Clean Climbing

Clean climbing is a style of climbing that emphasizes the minimal impact on the environment. It involves using natural features instead of placing protection into the rock, as well as avoiding unnecessary wear and tear on the rock itself.

Clean climbing is considered to be a more sustainable and respectful form of rock climbing.

28. Climbing Route

A climbing route is a particular path up a rock formation. The difficulty of a route will depend on the type and size of holds, as well as the complexity of the movements required to complete it.

29. Campusing

Campusing is a type of body-weight training used by climbers to build strength and improve technique. It involves using a series of holds on an overhanging wall to traverse horizontally without the aid of ropes.

30. Campus Board

The campus board is a type of training board specifically designed for climbers. It consists of several sets of horizontal and vertical rungs, typically made from wood or plastic, which are used as holds. Climbers use the campus board to practice specific movements and build strength quickly.

31. Carabiner

Carabiners are metal connectors used to attach one piece of equipment to another, such as a rope or harness. They come in different shapes and sizes and can be either non-locking or locking.

32. Chicken-wing

Chicken-winging is a technique used by climbers to overcome difficult sections of rock. It involves using one arm and the opposite leg to create leverage and help pull up on holds that are too far away or out of reach.

33. Chimney

Chimneying is a type of climbing that involves using your body to wedge into a crack in the rock. This technique requires strength and coordination, as well as the proper gear, such as slings and cams.

34. Choss

Choss is a term for loose, crumbling rock that can be dangerous to climb on. It can often be found in areas where climbers have frequently used the same routes, causing the rock to become worn down over time.

35. Clean

Cleaning a route is the act of unclipping and removing all protection that has been put in place by the lead climber. This task falls to both climbers following on from them, either as they ascend or rappel back down.

36. Climbing Chalk

Chalk is a fine, white powder used by climbers to dry their hands and improve their grip on certain holds. It can be purchased in small bags or applied directly to the hands from a larger bag, providing an extra layer of security for difficult climbs.

37. Climbing Rope

Climbing ropes are essential for any type of climbing, providing both an anchor point and a way to lower yourself back down safely. They come in different lengths, diameters, and types, with dynamic ropes being the most popular choice for lead climbing.

38. Chalk Bag

Chalk bags are small pouches used to store chalk. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with some models featuring additional pockets for storing other climbing equipment.

39. Crack Climbing

Crack climbing is a form of technical climbing that involves ascending cracks in the rock face. It requires specific gear, such as crack gloves and cams, and relies heavily on technique.

Crimp

40. Crag

Crimp is a type of climbing hold that requires a very precise grip in order to stay on. They are typically found on steep, overhanging rock faces and can be very difficult to hold onto.

Crag is another term for an area of rock with many climbs. It usually refers to either an outdoor area or a specific indoor climbing wall.

41. Crash Pad

A crash pad is a large foam mattress used to cushion falls when bouldering. They are typically placed below the climber and can help to reduce the risk of injury.

42. Crimp

A crimp is a small hold that requires the climber to use precision and strength in order to grip it securely. Climbers often need to “crimp” their fingers around the hold in order to maintain a good grip.

43. Crux

The crux of a climb is the most difficult portion. It typically requires the most strength, skill, and technique in order to complete it.

44. Daisy Chain

Daisy chain is an adjustable anchor composed of multiple loops, ideal for use by aid climbers to secure themselves.

45. Dead Point

A dead point is a specific technique used by climbers to reach holds that are out of reach. It involves taking a larger step than normal, extending the arm and foot as far as possible, and then “jumping” or “springing” up to the hold.

46. Descender

A descender is a device used to safely lower a climber from the top of a climb. It can also be used for rappelling down sections of rock or ice.

47. Dihedral

An open book's inner spine is a perfect example of what a dihedral looks like - an inside corner or crevice that can occur for just a brief moment, or the entire duration of your climb. On the contrary to this shape, an arête stands firm as its opposition.

48. Dirt Me

"Dirt me" is a term used to describe the practice of descending from a climb without taking off any gear, instead leaving it in place for future climbers. This is generally considered to be good etiquette and can help reduce clutter on the wall or cliff face.

49. Down Climb

Down climbing is the act of reversing the route of ascent by descending back down. This technique can be used to regain control or simply to conserve energy.

50. Dry-Tooling

Dry tooling refers to the practice of using ice axes and crampons on rock instead of ice. It is typically done in areas where ice is scarce, such as on rock faces or in caves.

51. Drop-Knee

Drop-knee is a powerful technique used by climbers to gain leverage on small holds. It involves bending the leg at the knee and dropping it away from the body, creating a wider frame for the climber to work with. This can help them reach further or hold onto smaller holds.

52. Dynamic Movement

Dynamic movement is when a climber moves quickly and fluidly in order to complete difficult sections of routes. This type of movement requires strength, speed, and agility.

53. Dynamic Rope

Dynamic rope is a special type of rope designed to stretch and absorb the energy created by a fall. It is typically used for lead climbing and can help reduce the force of an impact if someone takes a large fall.

54. Dyno

A dyno is a type of dynamic move where the climber jumps from one hold to another without using their feet. This is typically done on overhanging routes and can be very difficult, requiring good timing and strength.

55. Elvis Leg

Elvis leg is the phenomenon that occurs when a climber's legs begin to shake uncontrollably after exerting too much energy. This can be caused by fatigue or fear and can lead to a loss of control.

56. Edging

Edging is a climbing technique that involves using small footholds to gain leverage and maintain balance while on the wall. It requires precision and strength in order to stay securely on the holds.

57. Face Climb

A face climb is a route that follows the natural features of a rock wall. It typically doesn't involve using any holds on the side or back of the wall and is considered to be more challenging than other types of climbing routes.

58. Figure 8 Knot

A figure 8 knot is a type of knot used by climbers to tie an end of the rope to their climbing harness. It is considered to be one of the strongest knots and should always be checked before beginning a climb.

59. Finger lock

A finger lock is a technique used by climbers to gain purchase on tiny holds. It involves using the fingers to create a locking grip on the hold, allowing for more control and leverage.

60. Fist Jam

A fist jam is a technique used to gain purchase on larger holds. It involves putting your hand in a closed fist and inserting it into the crack of a hold, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up.

61. Flag

Flag is when a climber uses their leg or foot as an extra point of contact in order to balance or stabilize themselves while climbing. This can be especially helpful on overhanging routes where balance can be difficult to maintain.

62. Flare

A flare is a technique used to create more surface area on small holds. It involves pushing outwards with the fingers so that they spread apart, creating a larger platform for the climber to work with.

63. Flash

Flash is when a climber completes a route on their first try without falling. It requires accuracy and precision in order to stay on the wall and complete all of the moves correctly.

64. Flapper

A flapper is when a climber's skin tears off due to friction on the wall. This typically occurs when a climber is using poor technique or not paying attention to their grip. It can be painful and lead to infection if not taken care of properly.

65. Free Climb

Free climbing is when a climber attempts to complete a route without the use of any artificial holds or assistance. This type of climbing requires strength and technique in order to stay on the wall without relying on outside help.

66. Free Solo

Free soloing is a style of climbing where the climber attempts to complete a route without any ropes or safety equipment. This type of climbing requires extreme skill and should only be attempted by experienced climbers.

67. Gaston

The gaston is a type of dynamic move used to reach distant holds that are too far away to comfortably reach with the hands. It involves pressing against a hold with the palm of the hand and using powerful hip movement to propel oneself forward.

68. Grigri

The grigri is a device used for belaying. It is an assisted braking system that automatically locks the rope if there is too much weight on it, acting as an added safety measure.

69. Hand Jam

A hand jam is a technique used to gain purchase on larger holds. It involves putting the hand in a closed fist and inserting it into the crack of a hold, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up.

70. Harness

A harness is a piece of equipment used to attach the climber to the rope. It should fit snugly and provide support for the climber while they are on the wall.

71. Heel Hook

A heel hook is a technique used to gain purchase on larger holds. It involves using the heel of the foot to create an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up. This can be especially helpful on overhanging routes where balance and stability are key.

72. Heel-toe

A heel-toe cam is a type of climbing device used to gain purchase on small holds. It involves placing the toe and heel in different parts of a hold, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up.

73. Hex

A hex is a type of climbing device used to create an anchor point on larger holds. It involves using the curved sides of the hex to wedge itself into the crack, allowing for more stability and security when climbing.

74. High-step

The high-step is a technique used to gain purchase on higher holds. It involves using the hands and legs together to reach for a hold that is just out of reach. The climber typically uses their arms to pull themselves up while their feet are placed on the wall for stability and leverage.

75. Highball

Highballing is when a climber attempts to complete a route that is at least 20 feet tall. This type of climb requires a lot of confidence and skill, as a fall from such heights can be dangerous.

76. Hueco

Hueco is a type of rock climbing hold that provides an extra secure grip. It involves putting the fingers and thumbs into "holes" or pockets in the wall, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up.

77. Intermediate

Climbing up a wall and feeling that you need extra support? An intermediate hold is an answer! It's a "faux" grip, also known as an in-between handhold. Using this temporary grasp will help your body shift to higher ground so that it can reach more secure holds above.

This technique of semi-locking off your hands along with pulling yourself upward towards better positions is called intermediating — and it has saved many from those awkward climbing moments!

78. Jamming

Jamming is a technique used to gain purchase on cracks and crevices. It involves inserting the fingers and hands into the crack, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up. This type of climbing requires strength and skill in order to stay secure while jamming.

79. Jug

A jug is a large climbing hold that can easily be grasped with the hands. It typically provides a secure anchor point and can make climbing easier by providing more support and stability.

80. Jumar

A jumar is a type of climbing device used for ascending ropes. It involves inserting the device into the rope and using it to climb up the rope with efficient movements.

81. Kneebar

A kneebar is a technique used to gain purchase on larger holds. It involves placing the knee against a hold and using the legs for leverage, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up.

82. Lead Climbing

Lead climbing is a type of climbing where the climber ascends a route with the rope tied to their harness. As the climber moves up, they must place protection (such as nuts and cams) in order to ensure that they have something to catch them if they fall. This requires more skill and technical ability than top-roping or bouldering.

83. Link-up

A link-up is when multiple climbers climb the same route and reach the top at roughly the same time. This can be done with friends, family, or random strangers in order to create a unique experience with others who share a passion for climbing.

84. Layback/Lieback

The layback is a type of dynamic move used to reach distant holds. It involves extending both arms as far as possible while reaching back with one hand and pulling with the other. The climber then pulls their body up and swings outward to gain more purchase on the distant hold.

85. Lock-off

A lock-off is a technique used to stabilize your body while climbing. It involves gripping a hold with one hand and locking the elbow of the other arm against the wall, creating an anchor point that can be used to pull oneself up.

86. Mantel

The mantle is a type of move used to reach higher holds. It involves placing both hands onto a flat hold and using powerful hip movement to propel oneself upward. This move requires strength, balance, and core stability in order to stay secure.

87. Mixed Climbing

Mixed climbing is a type of rock climbing that combines both traditional and ice climbing techniques. It typically involves using both hands and feet to ascend the wall, as well as using ice axes and crampons for added grip. This type of climb requires specialized gear and training in order

88. Multi-Pitch

Multi-pitch climbing is a type of rock climbing that involves climbing multiple pitches (sections) of a route. This requires rock climbers to be knowledgeable about their safety systems and have the ability to set up protection for the sections in between belays.

89. Nut

A nut is a type of climbing protection used in traditional and sport climbing. It consists of a metal wedge that is inserted into cracks or crevices, providing an anchor point for the rope. Nuts are typically placed by rock climbers in order to protect themselves from falls.

90. Nut Tool

A nut tool is a specialized tool used to remove climbing protection (nuts, cams, etc). It typically consists of a long handle with a hooked end that allows climbers to reach into cracks and crevices in order to remove their protection. This tool can be very useful when cleaning routes or freeing stuck pieces of gear.

91. Off-width

An off-width is a type of crack in the rock that is too wide for traditional hand and foot holds, but too narrow to fit two hands or feet side-by-side. Climbers must use dynamic movements and specialized techniques in order to ascend this type of terrain.

92. Onsight

An onsight is when a climber attempts and completes a route without any prior knowledge or practice. This requires the climmer to analyze the route, assess their abilities and skill level, and make quick decisions in order to successfully complete the climb.

93. Overhang

An overhang is a type of climbing terrain that involves ascending an angled wall with holds that are higher than the climber’s body. This requires powerful arm and core strength in order to stay secure while climbing.

94. Passive Protection

Passive protection is a type of climbing protection that does not actively grip the rock. This typically includes nuts, hexes, and tricams which rely on the shape of the rock to stay in place. This can be useful in certain types of terrain where active cams are not suitable.

95. Pinch

A pinch is a type of grip used to hold onto a climbing hold. It involves pinching the top of the hold between your thumb and finger in order to gain purchase. This grip can be very helpful when trying to move quickly on overhangs or slabs.

96. Pitch

A pitch is a section of a climbing route that is considered to be one “length”. This length can vary depending on the terrain and the type of climb, but typically ranges from 10-20 meters (30-60 ft).

97. Pocket

A pocket is a type of climbing hold that consists of a small indention in the wall, usually about 1-2 inches deep. These are typically used for fingers or footholds and require precision placement in order to stay secure.

98. Project

A project is a type of climb that a climber has not yet completed. This can range from something as simple as trying to complete a route without falling, or attempting to climb one of the hardest routes in the world. Projects help climbers push their limits and continue to progress in their climbing abilities.

99. Protection

Protection is the term used to describe any type of device or system used to safeguard a climber during their ascent. This can include passive protection such as nuts and hexes, active protection such as cams and tricams, and even rope systems such as belay devices and anchor setups.

100. Pumped

Pumped is the term used to describe a climber’s exhaustion from climbing. This typically occurs due to a lack of grip strength or inefficient technique, leading to an inability to complete a route or hold onto certain holds. It can be extremely dangerous as it puts the climber at risk for falls or other injuries.

101. Quickdraw

A quickdraw is a specialized piece of gear used by climbers to attach their rope to the protection on the wall. It consists of two carabiners that are connected by a loop or “dogbone” of webbing, allowing for easy and secure attachment to the anchor points.

102. Rack

The rack is the term used to describe the collection of gear and protection a climber has with them for a particular route. This will usually include any cams, nuts, hexes, slings, draws, and other items necessary for completing the climb.

103. Rappel

Rappel is the term used to describe the descent of a climber down the side of a rock face or cliff. It involves tying off the rope at an anchor point, and then descending with a device such as an ATC or figure-eight rappel device while controlling the speed of their descent.

104. Ratings

Ratings are a system used to classify the difficulty of different climbing routes. This includes both technical ratings and protection ratings, which are based on the level of skill and difficulty required in order to complete the climb safely.

105. Redpoint

A redpoint is the term used to describe a successful climb of a route without falling or resting on the rope. It is typically considered more difficult and impressive than simply topping out (completing) a route.

106. Runout (Run-out)

A run-out is a section of a climbing route that has little or no protection. This can be extremely dangerous, as even the slightest mistake could result in a long and hazardous fall. Experienced climbers should always take extra caution when on these sections of a climb.

107. Scrambling

Scrambling is a type of climbing that does not involve the use of protection or ropes. It usually involves traversing certain sections of a rock face with minimal holds, and often requires skill in body positioning and balance.

108. Send

The term “send” is used to describe the successful completion of a route or project. It can be used as an expression of joy or triumph when a climber has finally achieved their goal.

109. Slab

A slab is a type of rock climbing terrain that involves ascending an angled wall with very few features or holds. This requires a combination of balance, friction and core strength in order to stay secure on the wall.

110. SLCD (Spring-Loaded Camming Device)

SLCDs, or spring-loaded camming devices, are specialized pieces of gear used to provide protection on the wall. They consist of cams that expand and contract with a trigger mechanism, allowing them to be placed into different types of cracks or features in the rock.

111. Sling

A sling, crafted from a durable nylon runner and spanning shoulder-length, is an essential tool for climbers that allow them to fasten themselves securely in place, construct anchors with ease, transport gear without the hassle and much more.

112. Sloper

Slopers are types of holds that do not have any edges or pockets, but rather require friction from the climber’s fingers in order to provide grip. They can be difficult to hold onto, as it requires a good sense of balance and technique in order to stay secure on them.

113. Smear

A smear is a technique used by climbers to gain purchase on the wall. It involves employing the rubber of the climbing shoes to create friction and stick to the wall, allowing for more stability and less fatigue while ascending.

114. Sport Climbing

Sport climbing is a type of climbing that uses permanent anchors and pre-placed equipment in order to ascend the rock face. It is often considered safer than traditional “trad” climbing due to these features, but it can also be less challenging as the route has already been established.

115. Spotting

Spotting is a technique used to protect climbers from falls. It involves one or more individuals standing beneath the climber and using their bodies as cushions if they should lose their grip or balance on the wall.

116. Spraying/Sprayer

Spraying is the act of talking excessively about one’s climbing accomplishments or boasting about their skill level. It is considered to be a poor form of etiquette and should be avoided in order to maintain a respectful and welcoming atmosphere for all climbers.

117. Squeeze Chimney

A squeeze chimney is a type of rock climbing technique that involves squeezing between two walls in order to ascend. It requires great core strength as well as trust and communication with the belayer in order to complete successfully.

118. Stemming

Stemming is a climbing technique used to increase friction and grip while ascending. It involves placing the feet in opposition against two walls, allowing the climber to generate more power and stability while reaching for holds.

119. Take

Taking is a climbing term used to describe the act of removing oneself from a climb, either after a fall or due to fatigue. It should be done in a safe and controlled manner in order to prevent injury or further damage to the route.

120. Traverse

A traverse is a type of climb that involves moving horizontally across the wall instead of upwards. This requires precise footwork and body positioning in order to stay on the wall and make progress as you move across.

121. Top Out

Top out is a term used to describe the act of completing a climb and reaching the top. It can also be used more generally to signify the successful completion of a climbing route.

122. Toprope

Top rope climbing is a type of climb that involves setting up an anchor system at the top of the pitch before beginning the climb. This allows climbers to safely practice more difficult routes without having to worry about falling from a high distance.

123. Toe Hook

Toe hooking is a powerful climbing technique used to hold onto steep walls and overhangs. It involves the climber’s toes being hooked around a protrusion or feature in the wall, allowing them to stay secure without having to use as much strength.

124. Tufa

Tufas are unique rock formations that provide excellent handholds for climbers. They can be found on limestone or volcanic rock, and often require special techniques in order to ascend them safely.

125. Traditional Climbing (Trad Climbing)

Traditional climbing (or “trad” climbing) is a type of roped climbing that does not rely on pre-placed equipment or anchors. It requires the climber to place their own protection and can be more dangerous than sport climbing due to the lack of security provided by the bolts.

126. Undercling

An undercling is a type of climbing hold that requires the climber to pull upwards and away from the wall in order to make progress. It can be used in combination with other techniques to ascend steeper routes or gain access to higher holds.

127. Whipper

A whipper is an uncontrolled fall due to losing grip or balance on a climb.

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