Pete Whittaker: Embracing Struggle, Building Strength, Managing Fear, and Crack School
Feb 19, 2025
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Elite climber Pete Whittaker shares his journey through the challenges of climbing, discussing the art of embracing struggle for personal growth. He unveils his training strategies, focusing on intentional practice and the importance of fear management. Pete delves into climbing techniques, gear placement, and recounts his thrilling Greenland expedition. Notably, he introduces the Global Crack School, a fun platform to master crack climbing skills. Tune in for insights on balancing strength and technique while navigating the highs and lows of climbing!
Pete Whittaker emphasizes that embracing struggle in climbing is essential for growth, as it shapes the overall climbing experience.
The importance of mental preparation and confronting fear is highlighted, particularly regarding the challenges posed by falling while trad climbing.
Whitaker introduces the Global Crack School, a new initiative aimed at providing accessible resources for learning crack climbing techniques.
Acknowledging the significance of community, Whitaker discusses upcoming Crack Fests to foster camaraderie and knowledge-sharing among climbers.
Deep dives
Embracing the Struggle in Climbing
The host discusses the concept of embracing struggle in rock climbing, emphasizing how it shapes the climbing experience. The conversation highlights that struggle is a major aspect of growth and learning in the sport. Climbing is not always about effortless movement; instead, it often involves overcoming challenges and adversity. The host reflects on personal experiences, suggesting that relishing the struggle can enhance one’s relationship with climbing.
Interview with Pete Whitaker
The podcast features an engaging discussion with renowned climber Pete Whitaker, who shares insights and anecdotes about his climbing journey. Whitaker emphasizes the necessity of humor and humility in the climbing community while also showcasing his impressive accomplishments in crack climbing. He discusses significant climbs, including his partnerships with Tom Randall and the competitive dynamics involved in pushing limits. Their conversation illustrates the camaraderie and shared experiences that shape high-level climbing.
The Challenge of Crack Climbing
Whitaker delves into specific challenges associated with crack climbing, particularly its unique techniques and mental demands. He points out that various types of cracks, such as ring locks and finger cracks, present distinct obstacles for climbers. By sharing personal experiences and struggles faced during climbs, Whitaker encourages aspiring climbers to confront their fears and develop skill sets to tackle difficult routes. This segment highlights the importance of technique and resilience in achieving success in climbing.
Training and Mental Preparation
The conversation shifts towards the importance of both physical training and mental preparation in climbing. Whitaker shares his regimen, which includes a focus on strength and endurance, to enhance performance on challenging climbs. He emphasizes the need to acknowledge and confront fear, particularly with regard to falling while trad climbing. Through practical tips and advice, the discussion aims to equip listeners with strategies to build confidence and strength in their climbing practices.
Global Crack School Initiative
A highlight of the episode is the announcement of the Global Crack School, a new online platform designed to teach crack climbing techniques. Whitaker explains that the initiative aims to provide climbers with accessible resources and knowledge to improve their skills. Including a comprehensive curriculum and video demonstrations, the program features insights gleaned from their years of experience. This initiative is positioned as a significant educational resource for both novice and experienced climbers.
Understanding Fear in Climbing
The discussion addresses the pervasive nature of fear in climbing, particularly the fear of falling. Whitaker explains how this fear can be a natural response but can often be managed through experience and preparation. He encourages climbers to differentiate between necessary caution and limiting fear when approaching difficult routes. This section emphasizes that recognizing and coping with fear is crucial for progress in climbing.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
Whitaker shares exciting news about upcoming crack climbing events, known as Crack Fests, aimed at uniting the climbing community. He expresses enthusiasm for fostering camaraderie and sharing knowledge through these gatherings. The events are anticipated to expand the reach of crack climbing to new climbers and enthusiasts. His commitment to community engagement reflects the collaborative spirit often found in the climbing world.
Personal Climbing Projects
Towards the end of the episode, Whitaker discusses his personal climbing projects for the year, including goals set for big wall climbs in Norway. He shares insights about the preparation required for these ambitious objectives, including training and environmental considerations. The excitement of pursuing new climbs illustrates his passion for the sport and desire to continuously challenge himself. This segment highlights the continuous progression and adventure found in a climber's journey.
Join The Struggle’s Patreon community to get 100+ hours of Bonus Episodes, Pro Clinics, Uncut Videos, and Submit Questions for Future Guests. FREE TRIAL available!
Who gives up first when things get tough: him and Tom
How he's building strength and power
Improving training results by focusing on intention
His wild experiment with weight
Expedition tactics and his epic Greenland trip
How he uses technique to climb harder without being stronger
Heel hooking 101
The most scared he’s ever been on route
Tips on how to place gear and assess its quality
The launch of Global Crack School
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CHAPTERS:
Struggle: (0:07:52)
Training: (0:15:44)
Nutrition: (0:49:51)
Tactics: (1:03:20)
Mental Game: (1:27:45)
Purpose: (1:44:49)
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BIG THANKS TO THE AMAZING SPONSORS OF THE STRUGGLE WHO LOVE ROCK CLIMBING AS MUCH AS YOU DO:
ForceBoard: A better way to train fingers. Portable, accurate, and created to train finger strength and endurance exactly how YOU need it. Score $10 off and support the show by using code STRUGGLE10 at checkout.
Rab Equipment: For more than 40 years, Rab have been crafting rugged, high-performance clothing and equipment that give you absolute protection, comfort and freedom in the mountains. Nothing fancy or over-engineered – just honest, hard-working gear you’d rather repair than replace. Learn more at Rab.equipment.
Rúngne: Soft threads and high performing chalk! Use Code STRUGGLE for 15% Off Bags, Buckets, Chalk & Apparel from Rúngne! Rungne.com
5-Year Training and Performance Journal: The most important climbing tool I use! Takes just a few minutes each day, and yields amazing insights year after year. If you’re psyched on training and performance, this is the journal for you. Log, reflect, send.
The Struggle is carbon-neutral in partnership with The Honnold Foundation, whose mission is to promote solar energy for a more equitable world.
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This show is produced and hosted by Ryan Devlin, and edited by Glen Walker. The Struggle is a proud member of the Plug Tone Audio Collective, a diverse group of the best, most impactful podcasts in the outdoor industry.
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The struggle makes us stronger! I hope your training and climbing are going great.
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And now here are some buzzwords to help the almighty algorithm get this show in front of people who love to climb: rock climbing, rock climber, climbing, climber, bouldering, sport climbing, gym climbing, how to rock climb, donuts are amazing. Okay, whew, that’s done. But hey, if you’re a human that’s actually reading this, and if you love this show (and love to climb) would you think about sharing this episode with a climber friend of yours? And shout it out on your socials? I’ll send you a sticker for doing it. Just shoot me a message on IG – thanks so much!
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