Old School Gritstone Era: The ‘Quest’ Video Featuring City Bloc’s Ben back in the day
Ever wondered what Ben looked like rocking a lush mane back in the day? Wonder no more, we’ve got a real treat for you with this old school gem, a delightful bouldering video straight from the early 00s Yorkshire climbing scene. Prepare for a proper climbing throwback as you watch Ben in his gritstone glory…
Parkour Pro’s Vs Rock Climbing Challenge at City Bloc
In November, Team Phat, the Parkour Athletes, descended upon City Bloc to film a collaboration with elite climber Max Milne. Chief setter Ben was entrusted with the task of creating a problem that would cater to the skill levels of both an elite climber and the fearless Team Phat, which would showcase the versatility of…
Summer League Final 2023
We had such a lovely time hosting the Summer League 2023 finals. The top scoring climbers from the Summer League rounds battled it out in four categories: intermediate male, female, open, and advanced male. Each category tackled three challenging blocs set by Ben and Zoe to determine the category winners. It was such a great night filled with…
Climbing Lingo “Rose Move”
A classic move famously recognised from one of the most famous sport routes in the world; La Rosa Et La Vampire in Boux (8B), France. The move is an extreme cross-through which is a staple technique in any climber’s toolbox. This line was first sent in 1985 and is the reason we know and love…
Climbing Lingo “Yorkshire Spot”
“Yorkshire Spotting” could be described as half-arsed spotting or basically pointless. Spotting isn’t typically encouraged indoors – after all, that’s what mats are for. But, if you’re outside sitting on the soft, green grass impersonating a proper spot or enjoying your sandwich while your friend is slapping their way up a boulder, you are executing…
Sketchy Sends x City Bloc
The new City Bloc x @sketchy.sends tees have landed and you can now get them at the Bloc Shop for £30. Working with Kate Mackenzie of @sketchy.sends has been a pleasure and we are all psyched at this custom piece she put together for us! Go and give her a follow & check out more of the amazing work…
Climbing Lingo “Taz Flick”
Lingo: “Taz Flick” aka “Pogo” Using your leg as a pendulum to gain upwards momentum. Named after Jamie Cassidy (Taz) who seems to be able to use them for every single move How to use Taz Flick in a sentence:You – “No way is this 6A, I have to crank that heel like I’ve got…
Returning to climbing after pregnancy
CityBloc team member, yoga teacher and coach Freya Newbegin offers her insights into climbing after pregnancy, and has spoken to other rockstar climber mums to offer support for the new mums eager to get back to the wall. In hindsight I think I returned to climbing too soon! I got back on the wall after…
Climbing during Pregnancy
City Bloc team member and coach Freya Newbegin shares her experiences climbing whilst pregnant. I found out I was pregnant in February of 2021 and had been climbing for around 5 years or so already. Mainly bouldering, both indoors and outdoors, I’d tried sport climbing a few times, but bouldering gave me the most joy…