How to Do a Heel Lock in Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is a fun way to get in shape and one of the most dynamic sports around. It requires the use of a combination of balance, strength and technique. Occasionally you'll come across a climbing situation where you need to use some advanced techniques to get over an overhang. One useful method is the heel lock, or heel hook. Here's how to do it.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Climb toward the overhang, using your legs as much as possible. Keep in mind that your feet are the base on which you balance. Think of your body as an accordion. Bring your feet up the face of the rock until they have a secure footing. Then, straighten your body by standing up.
2. Approach the overhang. Make sure you have two solid hand holds, and one solid foot hold.
3. Lean back so you can reach over the overhang with your leg. The key here is to balance so you don't waste energy hanging on to the rock.
4. Swing your outside leg over the overhang, with your hips pointed in toward the rock. Use the back of your heel to firmly lock on to a hold.
5. Pull down with your heel, and use your leg to start pulling your weight over the projection. Remember that the key to good climbing is to keep your body as close to the rock as possible.
6. Reach over with one hand and secure a good hand hold. You now have a solid foot hold and hand hold over the projection. Keep the majority of your weight on the foot you did the heel lock with, and use it to keep climbing up the rock.