Stephen Koch

If you are training for mixed martial arts or for your next UFC/cage match, adding ice climbing on an indoor wall or cave will benefit you with stronger hands, forearms (both good for grappling) as well as back and biceps (good for all around strength and punching power) as well as a strong core (good [...]

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How to clean your Camelbak / Hydration Pack.

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I climbed the Black Ice Couloir in Grand Teton National Park last week. I had a blast and it was the first moderately serious solo climb that I have done in several years. The climbing and conditions were favorable and felt moderate enough where I did not break out the rope, which I took as [...]

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For those of you interested in writing a grant proposal, Andrew McLean, Backcountry skiing guru and author of the Backcountry Ski Blog StraightChuter.com wrote a good piece on the basics of an expedition proposal. The expedition proposal helps clarify the purpose of the proposed trip for the participants as well as may land you some [...]

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In this video I demonstrate and explain how I sharpen an ice axe pick.

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In the video below I share tips on how to move faster on multi-pitch climbs.

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Short video of me stacking a climbing rope.

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I was recently asked about how I train for steep snowboard descents. Below is my reply.
When I was doing steep snowboard descents on a regular basis I trained by riding as much variable terrain as possible as often as possible. Getting out on icy, crappy snow all over the mountains, especially at the areas available [...]

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26Tips for More Efficient (and safer) Climbing:

Leave earlier than you think you need to.
Pick fast partners and go climbing with various partners who are better (technically, mentally stronger, physically stronger) than you so you can learn from them.
Go light. Leave the bivouac sack and bag/s behind and commit. Obvious consequences apply.
Use light weight carabiners.
Use spectre [...]

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