Next Program Begins Feb 1, 2027 – Apply Now

Introduction to Training for Climbing

A 12-week introduction to training for climbing at GP81

Introduction
to Training
for Climbing

A 12-week introduction to training for climbing at GP81

Learn how to train for climbing

Welcome to this first-of-its-kind collaboration between GP81 and Vertical Ascents.

This 12-week coaching program is for climbers who want to bring more structure and direction to their training.

In the program, you’ll learn how to train using the gym set, training boards and hangboards.

Alongside the programmed training sessions, we’ll go deeper into the ideas that underpin effective training for climbing. You’ll learn how to decide what to climb, how much to climb and how to manage fatigue while building towards peak form.

What GP81 Climbers Say

"The thing that helped me improve as a climber turns out to be something entirely different than what I thought.

I started barely sending V4s. Three months later I was flashing them and sent my first V5."

— Dennis, GP81

"One of the biggest changes for me was learning to value each attempt as a finite resource."

— Eliza, GP81

"I learned how to use the hangboard and training boards which were always intimidating to me."

— Mara, GP81

"I came into the program with a lot of questions, and I'm leaving with many more tools in the toolbox to structure my sessions."

— James, GP81

“This program took the question marks out of each session. It helped me shake up my routine, focus on specific goals, and optimize recovery.”

— Jake, GP81

“What changed most for me was getting better at making small decisions while climbing — what to climb, when to try harder, and how much rest to take.”

— Lijiao, GP81

“The biggest value for me was learning to do less, but with more intention. It gave me space to focus on what actually mattered in my climbing.”

— Bill, GP81 (Cohort 1)

What You’ll Learn

✅ How to find the right level of challenge in the gym

✅ How to turn set climbs into progressive training tools

✅ How to build circuits that develop your climbing capacity

✅ How to use the training boards

✅ How to use the hangboard

✅ How to manage your attempts, rest, training dose and fatigue

✅ How to build momentum and move towards peak form

✅ How to make better training decisions for yourself

What You’ll Get

✅ A clear 12-week training structure

✅ Weekly climbing and training sessions

✅ Weekly coaching emails exploring the ideas and strategies behind the program

✅ A personal dashboard and training schedule

✅ Ongoing coaching support with space to ask questions throughout the program

✅ Simple progression systems you can continue using after the program

By the end, you’ll have a strong foundation for all of your training moving forward.

Learn how to train for climbing at GP81.

See the banner at the top of the page for the next program start date.

GP81 member price: $175

How It works

Here’s how the process works—step by step

  1. Fill out a short intake questionnaire

  2. Complete your payment to join the 12-week program

  3. Get access to the program on the start date

  4. Start training

  5. Follow your weekly sessions and track your progress

Climbers training at GP81 in Brooklyn.
“Our goal with this program is simple: to teach you how to train for climbing at GP81. ”

FAQs

  • Yes. The program is designed around GP81’s specific walls and equipment, so an active membership is required to participate.

    If you decide to join the gym, GP81 will waive your initiation fee for program participant

  • No. The program is designed for climbers who already have some climbing experience but are just beginning to explore structured training.

    You don’t need any previous experience with training boards or hangboarding. We’ll introduce each tool gradually and help you adapt the sessions to your current level.

  • You’ll receive an email on launch day. Click the link in that email, create your account, and log in to access the program.

  • No problem — you’ll still benefit from the program even if you miss a week or two. The system is designed to be educational as well as practical, so you won’t fall behind.

  • There are two sessions per week, but this can be adjusted if it makes more sense for you and your schedule. The goal is to find a structure that fits your situation best.

  • You’ll pay via a secure link after completing the intake form. We accept all major cards.

  • No — this is a one-time payment for the 12-week program. There’s no recurring billing or hidden fees.

  • You can cancel for a full refund any time before the program start date.

    Once the program begins and you’ve received access to the materials, refunds are no longer available since the training system is released at that point.

    If you’re unsure whether the program is right for you, feel free to reach out before enrolling — we’re happy to help you decide.

What comes next?

The Introduction to Training for Climbing program is the starting point for climbers who want to learn how to train at GP81.

After completing the program, you can continue with:

Continued Training — $65/month
For GP81 members who have completed the Introduction program.

Custom Coaching — $200/month
Fully individualised remote coaching and training at a GP81 member-only price. You can join this at any time—you don’t need to complete the Introduction program first.

►Explore Continued Training and Custom Coaching

Not Ready Yet?

Join our GP81 x Vertical Ascents newsletter for practical training ideas and updates on GP81 × Vertical Ascents programs.

Climbing and training carry inherent risk. Please train responsibly and within your limits. By joining this program, you agree to our participation terms.