Face climbing

Face climbing is a type of climbing where climbers use features and irregularities in the rock such as finger pockets and edges to ascend a vertical rock face.[1] Face climbing is contrasted with crack climbing. Face climbing is less reliant upon technique than crack climbing, but instead relies more upon body position.[2]

Techniques

Holds can be used in a variety of ways by your feet and hands as you move up the rock

Manteling

The mantel is a specific use of down-pressure technique. Pushing down with your hands you allow your feet to reach the same hold your hands are on. [3]

Stemming

Stemming is a counterforce technique where you support yourself between two spots by pressing in opposite directions. [3]

Undercling

A hold that requires your palms to face upwards instead of downwards. [4] Your arms will pull while your feet push.

References

1. Kidd, Timothy W.; Hazelrigs, Jennifer (2009). Rock Climbing: Rock Climbing. Human Kinetics 10%. p. 211. ISBN 9781450409001.
2. Bachar, John; Boga, Steven (1996). Free Climbing With John Bachar. Stackpole Books. p. 5. ISBN 9780811725170.
3. Cox, Steven (2003). Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills. Swan Hill Press. p. 218.
4. Bunting, Camille (2006). Interdisciplinary Teaching Through Outdoor Education. Human Kinetics. p. 187.