How to Climb 5.12, 2nd : Book Review

"How to Climb 5.12" by Eric J. Hörst is a comprehensive guidebook designed to help intermediate climbers enhance their skills and overcome more difficult routes. With his expertise as a renowned climbing coach and author, Hörst offers detailed advice, techniques, and training programs for climbers seeking to progress from the 5.10 to the challenging 5.12 grade.

The book begins by emphasizing the mental aspect of climbing, encouraging readers to adopt a growth mindset and build the confidence required to surpass their limits. Hörst explores the physical elements of climbing, providing insights on grip strength, body positioning, and footwork. The thorough explanations and diagrams enable readers to easily comprehend and apply these techniques on the wall.

A standout feature of this book is its focus on training. Hörst delves into various training methods, including endurance and power workouts, finger strength exercises, and route reading strategies. Moreover, he tailors training programs to the specific levels and goals of climbers, allowing readers to personalize their training based on their abilities.

Beyond the technical aspects, Hörst addresses common hurdles climbers may face, including fear of falling and breaking through performance plateaus. He furnishes practical tips and advice on overcoming these challenges, empowering climbers to gain confidence and elevate their climbing abilities.

Overall, "How to Climb 5.12" is an invaluable resource for climbers aiming to progress to the next level. Hörst's expertise and clear explanations make the content accessible to climbers of all levels. The training programs and tips provided ensure that readers have a structured approach to their improvement. Whether one is an ardent sport climbing enthusiast or seeking to broaden their climbing repertoire, this book is a must-read for conquering the 5.12 grade and beyond.

What are readers saying?

Eric J. Hörst's book "How to Climb 5.12: 2nd Edition" has received positive reviews from readers. This comprehensive guide to rock climbing focuses on helping climbers progress to higher difficulty levels. Hörst is praised for his ability to break down complex concepts and techniques into understandable steps. The book's organization and structure are also highly regarded, making it easy to follow and benefit from.

Readers appreciate Hörst's extensive knowledge and experience in the field of rock climbing, which shines through in the book. His credibility adds value to the insights and strategies he provides, covering various aspects such as mental preparation, physical fitness, and technique. The book is seen as practical, with effective training plans and exercises that can actually improve climbing abilities.

In addition to its practicality, the book also includes real-life examples and success stories, inspiring climbers to push their limits and achieve their goals. However, some readers caution that the book may not be suitable for beginners or those just starting out in rock climbing, suggesting that a more introductory book may be a better starting point.

Overall, "How to Climb 5.12: 2nd Edition" by Eric J. Hörst is highly regarded as a valuable resource for climbers looking to advance their skills and tackle more challenging routes. Its clear explanations, practical advice, and expert insights make it an essential book in the world of rock climbing.