Interview

  • Climbing

    When and how did you get into climbing and what kept you interested / fascinated in the sport?

    I first tried climbing in 2021 during my studies, thanks to a friend from my dorm. But it wasn’t until the end of 2022 that I really committed and from that moment, climbing became a passion I couldn’t let go of. What fascinates me most is the variety: it challenges both body and mind, demands creativity, and never stops teaching you something new.

    My first outdoor rope climbs were in Sicily, and my first bouldering trip was in Fontainebleau - both left me hungry for more. Today, I love the adrenaline of bouldering competitions, the freedom of traveling to new crags, and the constant process of mental and physical growth. My trip to Norway showed me how much I value the connection between climbing, nature, and adventure - I had barely left, and already I wanted to go back.

    Who was your childhood hero and do you consider yourself a role model now? Does it influence you at all that other people look up to you?

    My childhood sports hero was Maja Włoszczowska, an amazing Polish mountain biker.

    People sometimes tell me they admire my climbing, but I always feel a little awkward because there are so many climbers who have been at it longer and are technically stronger.

    That said, I do think I can be a role model in one sense: I started climbing relatively late, yet through determination and genuine joy in the sport, I’ve achieved personal milestones and truly pursue my passion.

    What were the most important milestones in your life so far, both in climbing and in everyday life? Did you immediately recognize them as such or only later on?

    Moving into a dorm during my studies was a turning point, it led to more travel and competitions.

    In climbing, a big milestone came during a competition that didn’t go as planned. I was so focused on a specific goal that I struggled to perform and felt a bit defeated. With time and reflection, I changed my mindset, learned to approach competitions more calmly, and now I can use those lessons to improve my performance.

    What were your greatest failures / setbacks / injuries? How did you cope with them and how did you come back from them?

    Fortunately, I haven’t had any serious injuries so far.

    I see failure as motivation; it pushes me to immediately rethink my approach and find new solutions. The experience I mentioned earlier, when a competition didn’t go as planned, is a perfect example: I initially felt frustrated, but I used it to reflect, adjust my mindset, and ultimately grow as a climber.

    What is your favorite climbing related story / experience?

    My favorite climbing experience was a spontaneous month-long trip to Flatanger, where I climbed in Hanshelleren Cave. The adventure was incredible; I packed a single backpack in just one hour and left the same day! It was epic in every sense: the climbing, the nature, and the thrill of diving into the unknown without overthinking. That trip reminded me how exciting and liberating climbing can be.

  • Training

    Do you have a strict training schedule for when and how you train throughout the year?

    I train flexibly, adapting to the competition calendar. Typically, I train 2-3 times a week, including climbing and gym sessions. I get the most satisfaction from bouldering competitions, thanks to the adrenaline and competitive spirit, but when not competing, I love bouldering outdoors.

    What advice can you give to somebody looking to improve their training routine?

    The most important advice I can give is to listen to your body - not every training volume or frequency works for everyone. Seek guidance from knowledgeable people but adapt it to yourself. Identify your weaknesses, push yourself in areas where you feel less confident, try different climbing styles, and most importantly, enjoy the process!

    What do you think of indoor climbing gyms in relation to climbing on actual rock?

    Most of my training takes place in indoor climbing gyms, as my trips to real rock have been occasional due to my studies.

    What I love about climbing outdoors is the connection with nature and the challenge of figuring things out on your own, there are no pre-set holds or routes. Climbing on rock teaches patience, creativity, and humility... it’s a completely different experience than the gym, especially when you don’t do it often.

    Are you able to do a one-arm pull-up? How about a single finger?

    A one-arm pull-up is not something I can do yet, as I’m still building my strength. I’ve always relied more on mobility, technique, and creativity. As for single-finger pull-ups, I haven’t attempted them for my own safety! I prefer to train smart and avoid injuries while gradually building my power.

    How much of the success as a pro climber is due to show and how much due to actual climbing skill?

    Competitions are very important to me, but mainly because they help me grow as a climber. I believe humility and modesty are key in climbing. Success is ultimately the result of consistent work on yourself, your skills, mindset, and perseverance matter far more than the “show.”

  • Climbing Psychology

    Is it possible for anybody to eventually perform a one-armed pull-up or get to the top of the Eiger/Matterhorn, or do you really have to be born for it?

    I believe physical predispositions matter, but determination is even more important. With enough perseverance and consistent effort, anyone can achieve their goals. Of course, some people may reach them faster thanks to natural abilities, while others take a bit longer, but it’s always possible if you keep pushing forward.

    How important is it to set goals in professional sports? What are your goals / targets you are working towards in climbing and in life?

    Goals are essential, they show us the direction to follow and help us analyze our progress. I find it much easier to set several small goals rather than focusing on one big challenge; it keeps things achievable and motivating. For the upcoming competition season, my goal is to reach the finals. Regarding climbing trips, I have a few rock projects I’m eager to tackle as soon as possible. In life outside climbing, I aim to finish another degree and start working in climbing as a routesetter.

    How do you deal with extremely hard climbing problems? Do you ever get frustrated and give up on them or do they motivate you even more?

    When I hit a “wall,” I take a step back and calmly analyze possible solutions. Often, I think about the route for the next day, and new ideas come to mind. Difficult problems don’t frustrate me; they motivate me even more. They push me to be creative, persistent, and improve both mentally and physically.

  • Future of rock climbing

    Is there anything you would like to change about the current developments in climbing?

    I would like to see more focus on awareness and safety in climbing. Unfortunately, I sometimes see instructors teaching beginners in very irresponsible ways. Of course, these are exceptions, but ideally there should be no such cases at all… safety should always come first.

    Where do you see the sport going in the next years, what will change and what is your role going to be in it?

    I see the future of rock climbing as involving more people and more trips, with growing interest worldwide. Personally, I want to continue developing myself through new projects and experiences outdoors, while also inspiring others to enjoy and respect climbing.