Climbing my way back up

I’m going to keep sharing the process of how I got back to where I am today in the next few blog posts, but first some climbing porn! Photos from Thailand this winter! Thanks to Nathan (www.nathanweltonphoto.com) and my brother Terje (www.terjeaamodt.com) for the amazing photos.

I went to Ton Sai in Thailand in early December 2012. After months of dedicated training at the rehab centers and the climbing gym, it was time to spend some time healing my mind and charging my batteries by being outside. There is nothing in the world that gives me more energy than being surrounded by magnificent nature.

Thailand was an obvious destination for me at this point because everything is so easily accessible: the short approach to the beach, the incredibly featured limestone, the ocean, the temperature, the cheap food, and good friends. And for some reason it feels like time doesn’t exist there. It seems life moves at a slower pace, so it’s a good place to restore both mind and body.

Koh Yawabun, 6c/5.11b

The Sit Spins Remix, 8a+/5.13c

My main goal was to play, have fun and avoid getting any new injuries by getting too caught up in the climbing. The whole time in Thailand I kept doing my rehab exercises, with great success. I rejoiced in the liberation of spending time outside and being able to push my limits again. But I failed on the “getting caught up in climbing” part. 🙂

For me, climbing grades are only reference points for myself; it is the dedication and hard work behind the send that gives me the good feeling of achievement. I love the whole process of projecting hard routes and the surge of emotion when I’m trying my hardest.

Burnt Offerings, 7a+/5.12a

Koh Yawabun, 6c+/5.11c

My goals on this trip were to find routes that challenged my comfort zone and hopefully send one 8a by the time I left. I thought I was grasping at straws when it came to sending an 8a, but I experienced that fact that if you want something strong enough visualize your dream, and put down the work it takes, no goal is too far fetched and no ambition is too high.

After three weeks I sent Just Call Me Helmet, my 1st 8a. By the end of the trip, I ticked off: