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How Your Ears May Be Affecting Your Climbing

Don't let auditory overload ruin your next day at the crag or boulders

Climbers are perceived (and often even think of themselves) as brave individuals, ready to face insurmountable challenges. It seems unthinkable that the sound of crashing waves, roaring wind, or even a barking dog or crying kid could elevate the heart rate of someone scaling a boulder or cliff, and yet, here we are. If you know, you know. And if you don’t, perhaps this article will reveal something surprising about either yourself or a climber you know.

Although some people are more susceptible to it than others, auditory overload is something we have all experienced. You might feel it when the crag is particularly loud with shouting belayers or when you’re trying to boulder in peace but someone else has decided to be your DJ for the day. Road noise is one of the worst culprits. If you’ve ever climbed at the aptly named Nightmare Rock in Squamish, you’ve almost certain been thrown off your game from the deafening sound of vehicles speeding by at 100km/h.  

These noises scramble the brain, making it difficult to climb with flow, remember beta, stay calm, and think rationally. While music, loud groups of people, barking dogs, and vehicle traffic are examples that might disturb just about anyone, some people get overwhelmed by less audible, less in-your-face sounds too. Things like the sound of strong wind, cars way off in the distance, the regular rumble of waves, or climbers simply chatting and having a good time at the crag can throw some climbers off. If you think this might be you, here are a few tips to combat sound pollution:

Avoid popular areas at the most popular times

Prevention is key. Whether you’re planning to head to the gym or outdoors to a local climbing area, avoid peak times whenever possible. 

Wear earplugs

A pair of foam earplugs from the pharmacy can really work wonders. It dampens the sound just enough that the various noises won’t bother you, but also allows enough through that you will be able to communicate clearly with your climbing partner if need be.

Ask other parties or the gym to turn down the music

Whether you’re outside and someone is blaring their favourite tunes or you’re in the gym and the music is simply way too loud, don’t be afraid to politely ask that they turn it down. A climber should always ask others at the crag/boulders before playing music. Musical taste is very personal and not everyone can listen to music and concentrate at the same time.

Play your own tunes

If there is a playlist that helps you keep your cool, put on your earbuds (like any respectful citizen would do) and enjoy being pulled into your own sonic world.

Use breathwork and mindfulness

Sometimes, loud noises erupt seemingly out of nowhere and we don’t have any tools to diminish them. Recognizing the sound or sounds that are bothering you and reminding yourself that they are just noise can help to combat feeling scrambled and stressed. Some deep breaths can help to prompt you back into a state of relaxation.

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