The Power of the Psych – Nathaniel Coleman
The reigning USA bouldering champion talks competition, developing new lines and what keeps him going.
Unlock this article and more benefits with 50% off.
Already have an Outside Account? Sign in
40% Off Outside+.
$4.99/month $2.99/month*
Get the one subscription to fuel all your adventures.
- Map your next adventure with our premium GPS apps: Gaia GPS Premium and Trailforks Pro.
- Read unlimited digital content from 15+ brands, including Outside Magazine, Triathlete, Ski, Trail Runner, and VeloNews.
- Watch 600+ hours of endurance challenges, cycling and skiing action, and travel documentaries.
- Learn from the pros with expert-led online courses.
*Outside memberships are billed annually. Print subscriptions available to U.S. residents only. You may cancel your membership at anytime, but no refunds will be issued for payments already made. Upon cancellation, you will have access to your membership through the end of your paid year. More Details
Coleman says in the video, “Comps have always had a place in my life because of that high energy, but I don’t need it all the time, and I don’t want it all the time. There is something to be said for a low-key day out with the boys. Places like this let me rest a little bit and rejuvenate the psych.
“I had been kid of struggling with my psych for climbing. I’ve been watching all these new films that have been coming out about developing and I’m like, “Wow, what an incredible process.” That just magnifies the mystery of climbing that I already love when I go to a boulder and don’t know any beta. So yea, I was super psyched on it.”
Also read Puccio, Coleman Take 2017 Bouldering Open National Championship