Even the most psyched climbers hit a wall—creatively. If your home setup is starting to feel repetitive or uninspired, you're not alone. Good route setting is both an art and a skill, and like anything creative, it benefits from a little structure and stimulation.
At Ledge Climbing, we design holds that inspire movement—and we want your problems to do the same. Here are seven easy ways to break through route setter's block and inject new life into your wall.
1. Set by Movement, Not Just Hold Type
Instead of starting with a cool hold, start with a goal: a deadpoint, a heel hook, a toe catch, or a palm press. Then build the problem to make that movement possible and necessary.
2. Use Themes or Games
Try setting:
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"One-handed only" problems
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Routes with only 4 total holds
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Mirror image problems (L to R and R to L)
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“Dice roll” holds—pick your holds at random and figure out how to make them work
3. Restrict Grip Types
Make a circuit using only pinches and slopers. Or only open-hand holds. It forces you to think differently—and trains specific weaknesses.
Shop grip-specific sets at Ledge →
4. Add Environmental Challenges
Try climbing with:
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A metronome (one beat per move)
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Downclimb-only problems
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A headlamp or blacklight session
The constraints push creativity.
5. Collaborate with a Partner
Let someone else pick five holds, then you have to build a problem from them. Trade roles. You’ll see your wall in new ways.
6. Set Problems Based on Real Rock
Recreate a favorite crux from outside or a gym problem you loved. It improves memory, movement translation, and wall utility.
7. Introduce a New Hold or Two
Sometimes, all it takes is one weird pinch or a new slopey rail to break the funk. Our small-batch holds are designed to challenge and inspire unique movement.
Climb More. Set Better. Stay Inspired.
— The Ledge Climbing Team
👉 Contact us for custom hold suggestions or setting tips