Client Testimonials
"I had dreamed of climbing Mt. Rainier for a few years, but I had doubted my ability and couldn't find a suitable climbing group. Garrett's concept of a training program specifically designed for climbers was perfect for me. Over the six month program, our group bonded together as we built strength, endurance, and mountaineering skills. Garrett's professionalism, experience, and skill with clients of differing abilities allowed me to achieve my dream." -Julie R.
"I don't know how many people actually look out at those big hurkin'
Mountains in the distance and think "I am going to climb that
someday." I think most people marvel at their size and beauty and
think the summit is something you see out the window of a plane. I
know I was one of those ... actually summiting a Mountain never
crossed my mind until I saw a Train 2 Climb poster up at my gym. I
signed up for a goal, not with the intention of actually climbing a
Mountain.
For six months I trained, lifting weights, spinning and hiking. I
grew closer and closer to my Train 2 Climb group and can now say
that I have a some really incredible friends. Garrett put together a
program that catered to our group. He got to know us and our fitness
levels and we gained confidence in him as our leader. I truly feel
that this goal of mine became a reality because of the Train 2
Climb program. Every one of us summited that hurkin' Mountain!
For anyone who thinks they could never do it ... you are wrong. This
training program can get you there! It isn't easy and it's a lot of
hard work but it is the most incredible thing I have ever done. For
someone who is afraid of heights I am hooked on this mountain climbing
thing. Thanks to Garrett and his program, it's onward and upward for
me! " -Laura P.
"Overall, Train to Climb was a great program that met both my goals of increasing my physical fitness program while getting me to the top of Mt. Rainier. And, as a total bonus, we had a great and cohesive group and a lot of fun both on the mountains and getting ready for the climbs.
I definitely improved my physical fitness training, going from independent work-outs in which I only stressed localized muscle groups, to a much more holistic and aerobic approach. Through the physical training with Ben and Andrew, I pushed myself to new levels, lost 16 pounds, and feel more energized and fit. The spinning classes with Tori nicely complemented the impact training and got us ready for the long schlog up the Cleaver and Flats to the summit of Rainier, as well as from the false summit to the true summit on Adams. The spinning was very important in terms of physiological preparation, such as ensuring performance at optimal heart rates, economy of movement, and endurance training. I always thought that I was reasonably "fit" before the program. But Train to Climb has definitely brought me to a higher level.
As to the actual mountaineering, Garrett is masterful in his explanations and guiding of the group. He has a very assuring manner in describing what we will be doing, and why we will be doing it in specific manner... whether the topic at hand ranged from use of equipment to physical aspects of climbing, such as pressure breathing and use of ice axes. The pace at which he led the climbs was definitely tailored to the abilities of the group... not to mention his "beyond and above" duties in ensuring that all climbers made it to the top!
I had such a positive experience that I am giving serious consideration to another Rainier climb, not to mention Kilimanjaro.” -Tom W.
