Get strong for the ice.
Swing, endurance, dry-tool and strength — the off-ice work that shows up on the pillar.
Swing & screws
Tool technique — the swing, the stick, and the screw placement.
techniqueThe pump
Endurance for the forearm that screams first.
the pumpDry-tool training
Rock, plastic, and steely edges — train the tools without the ice.
off-iceCold strength
Off-ice strength that carries into the swing.
strengthThe rack
Everything on your harness, nothing more.
tools & leashes
Matched tools, sharp picks, leash or no-leash dialed.
crampons
Monopoints for vertical ice, front points sharp.
ice screws
At least 8–10, mixed lengths, racks clean.
rope
A dry-treated single or half ropes for alpine.
helmet
Ice falls down. Always.
belay device & lockers
A tube or assisted device, three locking carabiners.
boots & gaiters
Stiff-soled, crampon-compatible, warm and dry.
beacon, shovel, probe
For glacier and avalanche terrain — practiced, not just carried.
pack light, climb quiet
Every gram you carry is a swing you don't get back. Strip the rack to what the route actually needs, and you'll climb faster, place better, and get down before the sun wrecks the ice.