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Hold

Definition of a Climbing Word

By Stewart Green, About.com

Ian Spencer-Green uses handholds and footholds on a limestone cliff in Montana.

Photo © Stewart M. Green

Hold

A hold is any point on a cliff face that a climber is able to utilize with a hand or foot which enables her to move upwards. Holds are divided into handholds and footholds. Different types of handholds include crimps, edges, slopers, jugs, pockets, friction, and jams. Footholds include edges, smears, and foot and toe jams.

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