Unpacking Exposure Therapy

In episode four, we walk through the basics of understanding mental training techniques for climbing with Hazel Findlay. Hazel is a professional climber and mental training coach, known for her first ascents of big walls around the world as well as her strength in single pitch sport and trad climbing. She is the third person to send Magic Line in Yosemite, a 5.14c single-pitch trad route that was originally put up by Ron Kauk in 1996. We talk about her early days in climbing, understanding fear, and effectively using exposure therapy to overcome fear in climbing through developing strong self awareness and accurately assessing the correct challenge level for you to make progress, rather than staying in avoidance or creeping toward panic. Hazel also shares some insight specific to navigating fear and developing a healthy mindset when climbing with your romantic partner.Resources:Arno Ilger: The “Godfather” of Mental Training in Climbing on the Curious Climber Podcast Strong MindPerformance Hacks training videosClimb Smarter by Rebecca Williams