We search out the most perfect pieces of rock. It's so amazing that these formations are so perfect for climbing on. It's almost as if they were created for climbing. You're taking these random rock formations and you're bringing to it this interaction. It transforms it from being this random rock into almost this piece of art. It's almost like a sculpture or something. Just by finding the handholds, finding that line up the rock. Every climb is different, has its own unique set of movements and body positions. Climbing and my appreciation for nature are totally intertwined.
Chris SharmaThere are strong people who aren't able to climb. It's about reading the rock, knowing how to position your body and having the tenacity to not let go.
Chris SharmaAs climbers, we need to learn to be good stewards of the land and take care of these places where we are spending so much time.
Chris SharmaI really learned to approach climbing not just with a pure athletic mentality, but also to appreciate all these beautiful places we get to go to.
Chris SharmaClimbing is a full-body sport from your fingers to your toes, but at the same time, it's like a dance on the rock. It's about being strong and fit but also graceful and elegant and efficient on the rock.
Chris SharmaI'm a rock climber. I really specialize in doing first ascents, and finding new routes outside, as opposed to doing competitions. I focus my energy on going out into nature and finding these new climbs. For me, it's not just this athletic pursuit - it's a really creative, artistic thing of finding these amazing formations out in nature, and mixing that with this high level of athleticism.
Chris Sharma