People ask…”how did you get into climbing?”

The easy answer is I went on an outward bound kayaking trip in Maine when I was 25, and at the end of the week long trip, there was a day of rock climbing.  I did it for the first time and thought… I dig this.  I should do more.

But that is the easy answer.  Rock climbing found me.  While I started exploring climbing and mountaineering briefly in my late 20s, I also found my husband at the same time and before I knew it, I was married and having kids.  I had only climbed a few times before I got married, and quickly jumped into starting a family.  I didn’t own much climbing gear, but remember vividly selling it all on ebay when I believed I wouldn’t climb again because I was starting a family. (and how can anyone possibly raise a family and go climbing?)

After having 3 kids, I suddenly realized I was deeply unhappy with my life.  Something was missing.  My youngest was 9 months old when I asked my husband for a divorce. I was 38, suddenly a single mom of 3 kids, ages 5, 3, and 9 months and had no idea whatsoever what my future would look like.  I had left my wall street job when I had kids, and although I was well educated and experienced, I couldn’t imagine returning to a corporate environment.  I had no idea what my future would look like, but I had faith that somehow, things would work out. 

During my separation, I got back into climbing full force.  Not only did I fall back in love with the basic joys of climbing, but it was a CRITICAL part of rebuilding my life through my separation and divorce.  It helped me feel strong, independent, confident and capable in a time of my life where I desperately needed it.  Climbing was something that was entirely my own.  I did it completely for myself, for my self worth and self love.  To say it saved my life is not an understatement.  That was over 10 years ago and I haven’t stopped.  

When everything around me seemed to be falling apart, climbing was my stability. It was a way to create a new life with a welcoming community and it reminded me that anything is possible. The connection to nature and the outdoors was a constant reminder that life is a cycle of growth, loss and rebirth. My love for climbing and the outdoors will always be my savior and refuge.

Since then I have climbed in New York, New Hampshire, Nevada, Colorado, Canadian Rockies, Kentucky, California, Utah and Chamonix.  I also got into ice and alpine climbing and summited peaks including the Eiger and the Matterhorn.  I am a firm believer that climbing and nature is the perfect way to learn about yourself, heal your soul, and develop ways to grow inside.  The lessons learned are both obvious and subtle, and continually reveal something new about yourself.  Usually at the exact moment when you need it.  

I wanted to share this feeling of empowerment with everyone! So I got certified as a personal trainer, health coach and AMGA Single Pitch Instructor and Apprentice Rock Guide.  I created climbing, fitness and outdoor classes and programming specifically for women to show them that they are truly capable of anything.

And now everyday I wake up with one goal in mind - “How can I help other women feel empowered through climbing?”. It’s my mission to help women like YOU love climbing as much as I do, and apply the lessons learned on the rock to life.  There are soooo many!! 

Where are you in your climbing life?

As you progress in your journey, ask me anything that's on your mind!  I would love to hear more about your personal goals, struggles, or simply answer any questions you may have.

I hope to connect with you soon.  And please reach out!  You are here for a reason.  Why not say hi!

- xo Anyssa