In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Xian, an accomplished climber, climbing coach, and writer. With over 20 years of experience in the climbing world, Xian's journey has transformed from an enthusiastic gym rat to an international competitor, and now she focuses on outdoor performance, coaching, and writing. Climbing has been a powerful force in Xian's life, helping her uncover her true self and shape her aspirations. Her passion for the sport culminated in her recently published book, Smooth: Movement Principles and Techniques for Climbing, where she shares valuable insights on the art of climbing. Join us as Xian discusses her evolution in the climbing community, the principles behind effective movement, and how climbing continues to influence her life. *** Catch the latest episodes of the Tough Girl Podcast, dropping every Tuesday at 7 am UK time! Don’t forget to subscribe so you won’t miss the inspiring journeys and incredible stories of tough women. Want to play a part in uplifting female representation in the media? Support the Tough Girl Podcast on Patreon! Your generosity helps shine a spotlight on female role models in the world of adventure and physical challenges. Join us in making a positive impact by visiting www.patreon.com/toughgirlpodcast. Thank you for your amazing support! *** Show notes Who is XianXian’s climbing journey spanning nearly 20 yearsTransitioning from competition climbing to outdoor climbing and coachingInsights into Xian’s new book, Smooth, focused on climbing techniques and principlesXian’s upbringing in Singapore, a highly urbanized city-stateJoining a climbing club at 15 and discovering a passion for climbingHer first outdoor climbing experience in ThailandThe impact of limestone cliffs in Thailand on Xian’s climbing perspectiveAdjusting to outdoor climbing challenges, including basic accommodations and new environmentsHow climbing introduced Xian to the outdoors and a different lifestyle.The lack of outdoor exposure growing up in Singapore.Choosing the University of St Andrews in Scotland for a dramatically different experienceExperiencing four seasons for the first time after moving from SingaporeTransitioning from the humid climate of Singapore to Scotland’s cooler, rainier weatherInitial struggles with outdoor culture and gear at St AndrewsThe humourous story of learning the importance of proper hiking boots rather than Converse sneakersJoining the mountaineering club and exploring Scotland’s HighlandsThe differences between indoor climbing culture in Singapore and mountaineering culture in ScotlandAdjusting to student-led mountaineering trips and the challenges they broughtXian’s progression from indoor climbing to mastering various climbing disciplinesKey differences between bouldering, sport climbing, and traditional climbingThe unique challenges of placing protection in traditional climbingHer philosophy on climbing movement and techniqueThe significance of movement principles in both climbing and coachingHow she balances her roles as a coach, climber, and authorWhy she wrote Smooth and her goals for sharing climbing knowledgeReflections on the cultural shift from Singapore to the UKThe value of seasons and outdoor environments in shaping Xian’s climbing journeyBuilding resilience through challenging and unpredictable climbing environmentsXian’s thoughts on connecting with nature through climbingXian’s current climbing routine and goalsHow she balanced full-time coaching and writing a bookThe origins of her book ideaWhat readers can expect from her bookAn overview of common climbing mistakesWhy good footwork is crucial in climbingHer experiences with recurring climbing injuriesHow injuries became opportunities for self-improvementLessons learned from shoulder injuries and improper techniqueThe importance of addressing the root causes of injuriesHow a severe back injury changed Xian’s approach to trainingThe importance of recovery and balancing training loadWhy injuries are common but manageable in climbing and athleticsHer thoughts on injury prevention and careOne of Xian’s most magical climbing experiences in FranceHow climbing unique locations enhances the experienceThe mental challenge of committing to difficult climbsInsights into Xian’s coaching philosophy.The rewards of overcoming challenges in climbingHow she balances professional and personal climbing goalsThe role of perseverance in achieving long-term climbing successFinding joy in sharing her knowledge through writing and coachingFinal words of advice Social Media Website www.xiangoh.com Instagram @xiangoh_ Facebook @xiangohcoach Book: ‘Smooth: Movement Principles and Techniques for Climbing’
