Staying ahead: how knowing latest macro and hold designs helps competitors
In the ever-evolving world of competition climbing, staying ahead requires more than just strength and endurance. Success depends on a climber’s ability to adapt quickly to the latest trends in route setting, particularly when it comes to macros and holds. These elements shape the challenges of modern competition routes, forcing athletes to refine their technique, problem-solving skills, and movement efficiency.
Over the past two decades, indoor climbing competitions have transformed dramatically. What was once a test of raw strength and endurance has now become a showcase of dynamic movement, coordination, and creativity. One of the key drivers of this evolution has been the introduction of ever-changing macros and hold designs, which push route setters to craft unique and unpredictable problems for competitors.
Major manufacturers, like our main partner Citywall and ClimbingGymHeaven, consistently develop new macro shapes and textures, ensuring that no two competitions feel the same. The International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) World Cup circuit exemplifies this trend, where each event features fresh, cutting-edge designs that demand rapid adaptation from climbers.
The role of macros and holds in competition climbing
In lead climbing, bouldering, and speed climbing, holds dictate the flow and difficulty of a route. Macros—large, three-dimensional features—have revolutionised route setting, enabling setters to create dynamic movements that test climbers in unique ways. From balance-intensive slabs to powerful coordination-based jumps, new macros and hold designs push athletes beyond traditional strength-based climbing.
Competitions at the highest level, such as the IFSC World Cups and the Olympics, frequently introduce newly designed holds and macros. Route setters aim to create unpredictable challenges, ensuring that no competitor has an advantage simply through experience. Those who train exclusively on outdated holds may struggle when confronted with unfamiliar textures, volumes, and shapes during a competition.
The need for regular exposure to new designs
To remain competitive, climbers must continuously train on the latest hold and macro designs. Several key benefits come from this:
- Adaptability in competition – Exposure to new holds reduces the shock factor of encountering unfamiliar movements under pressure. Climbers who regularly interact with fresh designs can adapt more quickly to novel sequences.
- Enhanced problem-solving skills – Modern climbing holds often require a combination of balance, agility, and unconventional gripping techniques. Training on these elements sharpens decision-making and movement efficiency.
- Developing sport-specific strength – Certain holds, such as slopers with dual-texture finishes or oversized macros that demand compression, require distinct muscle engagement. Incorporating these features into training ensures that competitors build strength specific to current competition trends.
