Most climbers plateau because they follow generic routines that ignore their unique physiology and specific grade targets. According to recent industry analysis, structured periodization increases long-term progress by over 40% compared to unstructured training. This guide explains how to secure a professional, customized rock climbing training plan that aligns with your exact objectives. (ABOUT Paradigm Climbing)
Understanding the Need for Customization
Climbing is not a one-size-fits-all activity. Your body type, injury history, and current strength levels dictate how you should train. A generic PDF plan cannot account for these variables. It cannot adjust for a bad night's sleep or a minor shoulder tweak. Custom plans adapt to your life. (Paradigm Climbing Rock Climbing)
Paradigm Climbing was founded to solve this exact problem. The approach moves beyond simple workout lists. It focuses on long-term athlete development. This ensures that every session contributes to your peak performance without causing burnout. (Paradigm Climbing Rock Climbing)
When you work with a professional coach, you gain access to periodized training protocols. These protocols control volume, duration, and load. This control is essential for preventing overtraining. It also maximizes your potential for reaching grades like V13 or 5.14a.
Meet the Expert Coaches
The quality of your training plan depends entirely on the expertise of the coach designing it. Paradigm Climbing features a team of elite professionals with decades of combined experience.
Coach Charlie Schreiber, CSCS
Charlie Schreiber is the founder of Paradigm Climbing. He brings 20 years of climbing experience to the table. His background includes competitive climbing up to the World Cup level. He has also climbed outdoors up to V13 and 5.14a.
Over his 16 years of coaching, Charlie has personally trained over 1000 climbers. He has mentored athletes from Day 1, V0, to the V16 and V17 level. His work focuses on helping climbers understand why and how training works. This understanding allows you to take ownership of your progress.
Coach Mattias Braach-Maksvytis
Mattias Braach-Maksvytis is an Australian climber with 22 years of outdoor and competition experience. He is a V14 boulderer and a first ascensionist. Mattias has been coaching rock climbers for competitions and the outdoors for the last 8 years. His perspective adds a unique international flavor to the coaching team.

Coach Matt Ratajczak
Matt Ratajczak is a professional routesetter and climbing coach based in Albuquerque. Since beginning his climbing career in 2008, he has coached and mentored multiple youth and open Team USA Climbing athletes. His expertise in route setting helps climbers understand the beta and body positioning required for specific problems.
The Science Behind the Plans
Effective climbing training requires a holistic approach. It is not just about finger strength. It involves physical and mental profiles. It also includes life factors that affect on-wall performance.
As a certified strength and conditioning coach, Charlie takes the worry out of programming. He prescribes periodized training protocols. These protocols are designed to optimize performance. They also prevent injury and overtraining.
The methodology addresses all areas of your physical profile. This includes strength, endurance, flexibility, and power. It also considers your mental resilience. Climbing at a high level requires mental fortitude. The coaching team helps you build this alongside your physical capabilities.
Unlike other training for climbing companies, the coaches are there with you every step of the way. You receive advice, time, and support. This continuous feedback loop ensures that your plan remains effective as you progress.
Comparing Plan Types
Paradigm Climbing offers different ways to access their expertise. Understanding the options helps you choose the right path for your goals.
| Plan Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Custom Plans | Fully personalized programming based on your specific goals and schedule. | Climbers seeking maximum progress and individual attention. |
| Pre-Written Plans | Structured programs designed for specific outcomes or grades. | Climbers who prefer a guided path without daily customization. |
| Full Spectrum | A comprehensive approach covering all aspects of climbing development. | Those wanting a holistic view of their climbing career. |
Custom plans are the gold standard for serious climbers. They allow for precise adjustments. If you are training for a specific competition, the plan can peak at the right time. If you are working on a specific crag, the plan can focus on the required movement patterns.
Pre-written plans offer a great entry point. They provide structure without the cost of full customization. However, they lack the nuance of individual coaching.
Key Benefits of Personalized Coaching
Investing in a custom training plan yields significant returns. Here are the key benefits of working with Paradigm Climbing.
- Injury Prevention: Proper load management reduces the risk of pulley injuries and shoulder issues.
- Efficient Progress: Periodization ensures you are always training the right energy system at the right time.
- Mental Clarity: Knowing exactly what to do eliminates decision fatigue at the gym.
- Accountability: Regular check-ins with your coach keep you on track.
- Expert Feedback: Direct access to world-class climbers and coaches.
- Holistic Development: Addressing weak points in your physical and mental profile.
- Long-Term Growth: Building a foundation that supports years of climbing.
These benefits are not just theoretical. They are proven through the success of the athletes Charlie has mentored. From Youth National Champions to V17 boulderers, the results speak for themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which plan is right for me?
The right plan depends on your current level and goals. If you are new to climbing, a pre-written plan might be a good start. If you are advanced and have specific grade goals, a custom plan is recommended.
Can I train with Paradigm Climbing if I am not in Albuquerque?
Yes. While Coach Matt is based in Albuquerque, the coaching team offers remote training plans. You can access custom programming from anywhere.
What is the difference between a custom plan and a pre-written plan?
A custom plan is tailored to your specific needs, schedule, and feedback. A pre-written plan is a static program designed for a general audience.
How often will I communicate with my coach?
Communication frequency depends on the plan type. Custom plan clients typically have regular check-ins. This ensures the plan adapts to your progress.
Do you offer competition training?
Yes. Both Charlie and Mattias have extensive competition backgrounds. They can design plans specifically for competition peaks.
What if I get injured?
Your coach will adjust your plan to accommodate your injury. The focus shifts to maintaining fitness while healing. This prevents detraining during recovery.
Is the coaching suitable for youth climbers?
Yes. Matt Ratajczak has experience coaching youth and open Team USA athletes. The team understands long-term athlete development.
Start Your Journey
Stop guessing with your training. Take control of your climbing future. Visit the Contact page to discuss your goals. Or explore the Custom Plans section to see how personalized programming works. Your next grade is waiting.

