Paradigm Climbing is the online coaching service that offers both fully custom and pre-written training plans for rock climbers. This guide explains how these two distinct program types work, who they are for, and how to choose the right path for your climbing goals. We will break down the specific features of each plan type and provide a clear framework for decision-making.
Custom Training Plans
Custom training plans are the flagship offering at Paradigm Climbing. These plans are designed for climbers who want a personalized approach to their development. The process begins with a direct consultation between the climber and their coach. This initial meeting allows the coach to assess the climber's current abilities, injury history, schedule, and specific goals. Based on this data, the coach writes a fully customized training plan. This plan is not a template; it is built from scratch to address the unique needs of the individual athlete.
The core of a custom plan is periodization. Periodization is the systematic planning of athletic training to achieve peak performance at a specific time. At Paradigm Climbing, coaches use periodized protocols to control volume, duration, and load. This approach optimizes performance while preventing injury and overtraining. The plan evolves over the course of the training cycle, adjusting to the climber's progress and feedback. This dynamic nature is what separates a custom plan from a static, pre-written program.
Paradigm Plus and Elite Tiers
Paradigm Climbing offers two tiers of custom plans: Paradigm Plus and Paradigm Elite. Both tiers provide a customized plan designed around the climber's goals. They include coaching on technique, mobility, fueling, and recovery. The primary difference lies in the level of feedback. Paradigm Elite plans include video analysis and feedback. This means the climber can send a video of themselves climbing to their coach at any point. The coach then responds with personalized movement analysis. This feature is like having a personal coach in your pocket, providing beta on crux moves or feedback on competition performance.
All custom plans are organized in 9-week cycles. Climbers can purchase one, two, three, or six cycles at a time. Purchasing multiple cycles at once offers savings and allows for a longer-term progression strategy. After purchase, the coach reaches out to schedule the initial consultation. The climber receives their plan within one week of purchase. The coach then works with the climber to select a start and end date, ensuring the plan aligns with their specific goals and schedule.
Online Coaching Services
Online coaching services provide remote support for climbers who cannot access in-person coaching. Paradigm Climbing's online services are built on a holistic approach to training and climbing. This approach addresses all areas of the physical and mental profile, as well as other life factors that affect on-wall performance. The coaching team includes experienced professionals with backgrounds in competitive climbing, route setting, and strength and conditioning. This expertise ensures that the training provided is evidence-based and effective.
In addition to custom plans, Paradigm Climbing offers pre-written plans through their Full Spectrum series. These plans are designed to offer climbers a taste of the success seen in the custom programs. They are ideal for climbers who are preparing for a custom plan, are on a waitlist, or simply want to accelerate their journey without a fully customized schedule. The Full Spectrum series is bouldering-centric but benefits climbers from all disciplines. It includes video how-tos for all drills and exercises, scalable drills for climbers of V3/5.10a and above, and a recommended yet customizable schedule.
The Role of the Coach
The coach's role in online services extends beyond just writing a plan. They provide continuous support and advice throughout the training cycle. This includes answering questions, adjusting the plan based on feedback, and offering motivation. The coaching team at Paradigm Climbing is known for being responsive and invested in the climber's growth and happiness. This level of engagement helps climbers stay consistent and achieve their goals. The coaches also focus on helping climbers understand why and how training works, not just what to do. This educational component empowers climbers to take ownership of their progress and make informed decisions about their training.
For climbers who are not ready for a full custom plan, the pre-written plans provide a structured starting point. These plans include educational materials on mindset, visualization, and breathing. They also cover technical drills, enhanced warm-up routines, and comprehensive hip mobility programs. By following these plans, climbers can build a strong foundation of strength and technique. This foundation can then be built upon with a custom plan when they are ready for a more personalized approach.

Comparison of Plan Types
The table below summarizes the key differences between the custom and pre-written plans offered by Paradigm Climbing. This comparison helps climbers make an informed decision based on their goals, budget, and schedule.
| Feature | Custom Plans (Plus/Elite) | Pre-Written Plans (Full Spectrum) |
|---|---|---|
| Personalization | Fully customized based on consultation | Pre-written with customizable schedule |
| Video Analysis | Included in Elite tier (10 videos per 9 weeks) | Not included |
| Communication | 24/7 communication with coach | Option for coaching communication |
| Duration | 9-week cycles | 5-week program |
| Best For | Climbers seeking personalized, long-term progression | Climbers wanting a structured start or preparing for custom plans |
Key Takeaways
- Paradigm Climbing offers both custom and pre-written training plans for rock climbers.
- Custom plans are fully personalized and include a consultation with the coach.
- Paradigm Elite plans include video analysis and feedback for movement improvement.
- Pre-written plans, like the Full Spectrum series, provide a structured starting point for climbers.
- Custom plans are organized in 9-week cycles, while pre-written plans are 5-week programs.
- The coaching team at Paradigm Climbing provides continuous support and advice throughout the training cycle.
- Choosing between custom and pre-written plans depends on your goals, budget, and schedule.
- Both plan types are designed to help climbers improve their strength, technique, and overall performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Paradigm Plus and Paradigm Elite?
Both tiers offer a customized plan. The main difference is that Paradigm Elite includes video analysis and feedback. This allows climbers to send videos of their climbing for personalized movement analysis.
How long are the custom training plans?
All Paradigm custom training plans are organized in 9-week cycles. You can purchase 1, 2, 3, or 6 cycles at a time.
Are the pre-written plans suitable for all climbing disciplines?
While the Full Spectrum series is bouldering-centric, climbers from all disciplines stand to gain substantially from its drills and exercises.
Do I need to be a certain level to use the pre-written plans?
The Full Spectrum plans include scalable drills suitable for climbers of V3/5.10a and above.
How quickly will I receive my custom plan?
You will receive your custom plan within 1 week of purchase. Your coach will work with you to select a start and end date.
Can I switch from a pre-written plan to a custom plan?
Yes, many climbers use the pre-written plans as a starting point before moving on to a custom plan. This is a common and effective progression path.
Conclusion
Choosing the right training plan is a critical step in your climbing journey. Paradigm Climbing provides a clear path for climbers at all levels, whether you need a fully custom plan or a structured pre-written program. By understanding the differences between these options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and resources. To start your training journey, explore the available plans or contact the team to discuss your specific needs.
