Every climber knows the feeling: you hit a route that looks easy—until it’s nothing but pinches. Suddenly, your go-to crimp strength doesn’t cut it.
That’s because grip variety matters. And pinch strength—often neglected—is key to unlocking better control, compression, and full-body tension. At Ledge Climbing, we shape pinches to challenge hands and whole-body positioning, not just your fingers.
Here’s why pinch training belongs on your wall—and how to get started.
What Makes Pinches So Valuable?
Unlike crimps or jugs, pinches demand:
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Open-hand grip strength
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Forearm, thumb, and palm coordination
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Tension through the entire chain (shoulders, core, legs)
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Precise body positioning
They simulate everything from slopers to awkward sidepulls to compression-style movement—making them one of the most versatile training styles.
Benefits of Training with Pinch Holds
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Stronger, healthier hands
Pinch training activates muscle groups you miss in crimp-heavy problems. -
Improved route variety
Many outdoor routes and comp-style sets feature subtle or burly pinches. -
Better tension and shoulder stability
Pinches often require locked-in movement—not wild swings—leading to better technique.
How to Train Pinches on Your Wall
1. Add a Pinch Circuit
Set a few short problems that force both low-angle thumb engagement and steep compression pinches.
2. Use Directional and Offset Holds
The more awkward the angle, the more your pinch training pays off.
3. Try “No Crimp” Sessions
Limit yourself to slopers, pinches, and open-hand edges. It will highlight your weaknesses—fast.
4. Integrate Into Campus or Strength Drills
Swap your rungs for thick pinches or use them in one-arm hangs and lock-offs.
Why Ledge Pinches Are Built Differently
We shape every pinch by hand for:
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Realistic width variation
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Comfortable but challenging texture
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Thumb features that force technique, not just grip
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Usability on steep or vertical walls
They’re not just blobs—they’re sculpted tools for better climbing.
👉 Browse Our Pinch Sets
👉 Want to build a compression circuit? Ask us how
Ledge Climbing – Handmade Pinches That Train Real Movement.