Training Blog: From the Ground Up

No more “this one weird trick will improve your climbing” late night YouTube binges, just expert advice and training at ROQ that will get your progression back on track. 

Most workouts stay in the gym. Climbing makes you stronger everywhere. At its core, climbing is one of the most functional ways to train your body. Every movement calls on balance, coordination, and power that directly translates to how you move through the world, not just how you move on a wall.

Wondering what your first ROQ class will be like? Here’s exactly how it works, from class structure to climbing levels, so you know what to expect from the moment you walk in.

One of the most efficient and effective ways to improve your climbing performance, especially your ability to try hard for longer, is through high-intensity interval training, or HIIT. At ROQ, we believe HIIT is not only fantastic for general fitness, but also a powerful tool for climbers looking to level up.

Climbing is fun. It’s empowering. It keeps you moving, thinking, and progressing. You don’t need experience or special gear to start — just the willingness to try. Come experience why so many people fall in love with this sport at ROQ.

When structured thoughtfully and progressed gradually, HIIT isn’t inherently riskier than any other climbing or fitness approach. Injuries typically happen when total load (intensity × volume) exceeds what your body is prepared to handle. That applies whether you’re doing capacity work like 4x4s or limit bouldering.

Boards have developed a reputation as a tool for advanced climbers. The truth? They’re an incredibly useful tool for progression at any level, especially if you’re still building your base or returning to the sport.

At ROQ, the rower plays a real role in how we train. It’s not an extra — it’s a key part of the system. And once you understand how and why we use it, there’s a good chance you’ll start to love it too. One of the best things about rowing is how quickly it feels like you're doing something. You can go from zero to working in seconds - all without pounding your joints...

Training with a supportive community boosts motivation, accountability, and performance—because the people you train with make all the difference.

Climbing more isn’t always the answer—ROQ’s structured, high-intensity training helps you build real capacity and make every session count.

ROQ’s training uses high-energy HIIT classes to build climbing-specific capacity—so you can climb harder, longer, and actually enjoy the process enough to keep coming back. In every ROQ class, you’ll rotate through climbing, cardio (on rowers), and strength work.