Sport climbing is gearing up to make its second appearance in the Olympic Games, and all eyes are on Team USA’s Natalia Grossman. At just 23 years old, Grossman has quickly risen to become one of the most decorated climbers in the sport. Known for her impressive skills and infectious joy, Grossman has a unique approach to competition that has earned her the motto “Smile and fight.”
Competing in bouldering and lead climbing, Grossman’s journey to the Olympics has been fueled by her passion for the sport. Starting climbing at the age of 6, she quickly showed promise and moved to Boulder, Colorado at 15 to further her climbing career. Now based in Salt Lake City, Grossman is not only focused on her own success but also on making climbing more accessible to others.
In a recent interview, Grossman shared insights into how she prepares for competitions like the Olympics. Despite claiming her tenth World Cup gold medal, Grossman remains humble and focused on her goals. She emphasized the mental challenges of climbing, highlighting the importance of having a strong support system and being in tune with one’s emotions.
Training for sport climbing involves a combination of strength workouts, endurance training, and proper skin care. Grossman stressed the importance of balance in training and the need to listen to one’s body to avoid overtraining. She also shared tips on maintaining the right kind of calluses and caring for the skin to prevent injuries.
For Grossman, what sets climbing apart from other sports is its variety and creativity. Unlike the repetitive nature of gymnastics, climbing offers endless possibilities for new moves and challenges. The thrill of conquering a climb, especially in competition, keeps Grossman hooked on the sport and motivated to push herself to new heights.
Despite the competitive nature of climbing, Grossman values training with her peers and believes in the power of collaboration to elevate the sport. While access to climbing gyms may be a barrier for some, Grossman is working on a project to make climbing more inclusive and accessible to all.
Looking ahead, Grossman is considering a future in sports psychology and plans to continue climbing and competing for years to come. With a few more Olympic cycles in sight, Grossman remains focused on her passion for climbing and the joy it brings her. As she continues to smile and fight her way to the top, Grossman’s journey in sport climbing is far from over.