Respect the Practice: Where Real Progress Begins

Lessons from an indoor climbing instructor on the value of consistent training.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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In this personal essay, a former indoor climbing gym employee reflects on the importance of consistent practice and respect for the fundamentals of the sport, even as climbers seek to push their limits and achieve new heights.

Why it matters

The author's insights highlight how a disciplined approach to training, whether for climbing or any other skill, can lead to meaningful progress and personal growth, even if the immediate results may not be visible.

The details

The author, Chris Weidner, describes his formative years as a climber in rainy Seattle, where he ended up climbing indoors a lot and even worked at a climbing gym. Despite the sometimes monotonous nature of indoor climbing, Weidner emphasizes the value of respecting the fundamentals and putting in the consistent practice required to improve one's skills.

  • Weidner worked at a climbing gym for several years during his formative years as a climber.

The players

Chris Weidner

The author of the essay, who reflects on his experiences as an indoor climbing instructor and the importance of consistent practice.

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The takeaway

Weidner's essay serves as a reminder that real progress, whether in climbing or any other pursuit, often begins with a respect for the fundamentals and a willingness to put in the consistent, disciplined work required to improve one's skills over time, even if the immediate results are not always visible.