Chicken-winging (Bad climbing technique)

Chicken-winging is a bad climbing technique where a climber presses their elbow out and away from the body, resembling a chicken wing. This happens when a climber tries to push against the wall for more leverage, often due to poor body positioning or fatigue. It wastes energy and reduces climbing efficiency. Proper technique should involve keeping the elbows close to the body for better control and power.

Examples

When Tom attempted the overhang, his arms flared out sideways in a chicken-winging position, causing unnecessary strain and inefficient movement. Sarah was stuck on the crux, trying to stay balanced but unintentionally chicken-winging, making it hard to maintain her grip. During his first climb, Alex kept chicken-winging on the slab, which made his movements look awkward and prevented smooth progress.