This is a tough article to write. As the founder of a website called “Rock Climbing Women” I have been feeling a little like i’ve been living a lie. Why? I have hardly climbed in over a year.
It’s a little embarrassing to admit. I was on a super climbing high last summer at this exact same time, when I suffered from debilitating tendonitis in my right elbow. I decided to take a little break. A little injury turned into something that lasted well over a year. I was extra cautious about the elbow because I’m a photographer and use that right elbow extensively to do my work, so I wouldn’t even consider risking it.
Well, over time I started to pursue some of my previous favorite activities. I completed my second half ironman this past June and was determined to get my climbing head game back on while on our summer trip again. Despite my best intentions, I just couldn’t quite get into climbing this time around.
Was it the fear of getting hurt again? Was it the extra weight I have put on? Was it that my climbing partners are seriously crushing way beyond me now? I think it’s a little bit of all those time.
I personally have always envied those that find climbing to be their end-all-be-all. While I love that I have other interests and hobbies my diverse interests also prevent me from really getting better at any one thing. I not only see this in my athletic life, but I see it in my business as well. I think this is an area I need to embrace but, if I am being real, it’s also something I really struggle with.
I am determined to get after it again as my collaborating partner with RCW, Sue is pursuing a climbing competition in Las Vegas. It would be fun to really feel good about climbing again.
So, how do you get back after it after a hiatus? How do you find the motivation when starting from ground zero?
I’d love your advice!
M.
Founder, Rock Climbing Women
McKenzi Taylor founded Rock Climbing Women in 2013 after moving to a new city as a new climber seeking more climbing partners (and new friends!). Since her first taste of climbing in Spearfish Canyon, SD, McKenzi has been at the rock face seeking and sharing the thrill of climbing. She credits the support of a consistent climbing partner and community as the motivation to continue developing her skill, whether it’s trad, sport climbing or bouldering. A full-time business owner and mother, McKenzi’s on a mission to get her kids outside and learning to adventure alongside her.
