Going Pro

So an interesting topic came up the other day from a coworker. He mentioned he wanted to become a professional climber to me, now I’m all about chasing your dreams and shooting for the stars. I also know there’s more to certain things in life that meets the eye. So I was thinking this morning what would be easier going professional in basketball or becoming a professional in climbing…now when I think of a professional anything I think the highest level that sport or thing that there is and of course getting paid to do it. So like past articles going professional in basketball doesn’t mean NBA it could mean G-League or overseas to me. But what about climbing does that mean World Cup wins and sponsorships because that is what that means to me in professional climbing, does not necessarily mean Olympics or anything like that. So let’s take deeper looks and compare what would be the paths towards become a professional climber and a professional hooper…

A professional rock climber is an athlete who climbs natural rock faces or artificial climbing walls at an elite level. They compete in disciplines such as bouldering, lead climbing, and speed climbing, or work as sponsored climbers creating content, guiding expeditions, and promoting outdoor brands. Professional climbers need exceptional strength, endurance, balance, problem-solving skills, and mental focus.

Steps to Become a Professional Rock Climber

1. Learn the basics by taking climbing classes at a local climbing gym.
2. Practice regularly (3–5 times per week) to improve technique and strength.
3. Develop fitness through strength training, flexibility, grip training, and cardio.
4. Learn climbing safety, including knots, belaying, rope management, and outdoor climbing ethics.
5. Join competitions at local, regional, and national levels.
6. Build outdoor experience by climbing different rock types and routes.
7. Work with a coach to improve technique and competition performance.
8. Earn sponsorships by performing well, creating climbing content, and building a social media presence.
9. Compete internationally and qualify for major events if pursuing the highest level of the sport.
10. Continue learning by training year-round and staying physically and mentally healthy.

Now let’s look at professional basketball journey…

A professional basketball player is an athlete who plays basketball for a professional team in leagues around the world. They train daily, compete against elite athletes, and work to improve their skills in shooting, passing, dribbling, defense, teamwork, and physical conditioning. Many professionals also represent their countries in international competitions.

Steps to Become a Professional Basketball Player

1. Start playing young by learning the fundamentals of basketball.
2. Practice daily, focusing on shooting, ball handling, passing, defense, and footwork.
3. Develop athleticism through strength training, speed, agility, jumping, and endurance workouts.
4. Play for school or club teams to gain competitive experience.
5. Compete in tournaments and showcase events to gain exposure.
6. Train with experienced coaches to improve skills and basketball IQ.
7. Create highlight videos and maintain strong game statistics.
8. Play at the college or semi-professional level, or join an international academy.
9. Enter professional opportunities, such as the NBA Draft, overseas leagues, or developmental leagues.
10. Continue improving through year-round training, recovery, nutrition, and teamwork.

Now I haven’t played basketball in a while, but me personally even in my 30’s I think I have a better chance of becoming a professional basketball player than a professional rock climber. But both sports to be at that next level means that you are completely putting all your free time into harnessing your craft and becoming the best in every aspect to where it will probably consume all your energy and time. The real question is how bad do you want it? Like I tell the kids I coach in whatever they do “what you put in, is what you get out!”

But everybody no matter what your dream is big or small, never stop chasing it if you truly want it!