Louis Parkinson, a seasoned British climber and coach, founded Catalyst Climbing to offer accessible and dynamic training. Also known as “Captain Cutloose”. In addition, as a former GB Climbing Team member, he brings enthusiasm and energy to coaching climbers of all levels. Overall, his career highlights include national competitions and a strong presence in both competitive and recreational climbing scenes.
Quick facts
| Full name | Louis Parkinson |
| Nickname | Captain Cutloose |
| Year of Birth | 1995 |
| Nationality | British |
| Role / occupation | Bouldering Coach, Founder of Catalist Climbing |
| Hardest Outdoor Boulder | 8B/ V13 |
| Hardest Trad Ascent | E7 |
| Specialty / Style | Dynamic movement, dynamic footwork, climbing coaching |
Table of contents
Louis Parkinson’s early life
Before discovering climbing, Parkinson was deeply engrossed in other hobbies such as Warhammer, Knex, and painting. Describes himself as a shy and not-very-sporty child, with climbing becoming a source of confidence, strength and fulfilment. Born in 1995. he first tried climbing age 13, drawn by the social aspect. Parkinson first climbed at his sister’s birthday party when he was a teenager. This early experience sparked his interest in climbing and marked the beginning of his journey into the sport. Though initially unsuccessful, he persistently practiced, driven by the same obsession that fueled his earlier interests, eventually mastering the sport.
National competitions
Parkinson joined the GB Climbing Team at 20 and competed in the 2015 IFSC World Cup. During that season he placed 73rd in the Boulder World Cup in Vail, 39th in Toronto, and 14th at a promotional event in Sheffield. Even though he lost his spot on the team in 2016, he continued competing nationally, securing a bronze medal in Men’s Boulder at the British Climbing Cup in Hull.
Louis Parkinson’s Outdoor bouldering achievements
Louis Parkinson climbed his first 8B (V13), in Magic Wood, Switzerland. Discussed his trip to Magic Wood on The Nugget Climbing Podcast in 2023.
Climbing History lists his hardest worked traditional route as E7.
Louis Parkinson’s Climbing style
Parkinson has become mostly known for his teaching dynamic movement. His coaching focuses on learning momentum in small accessible steps. That way the student learns to use momentum, timing and body awareness. This step by step procedure makes dynamic climbing less intimidating.
Catalyst Climbing
In 2017, Louis Parkinson launched Catalyst Climbing, which emphasizes affordable and enjoyable coaching for beginners. Specifically, the program includes online training, remote consultations, and personal coaching, focusing on dynamic movement—a key element in modern bouldering.
Furthermore, a significant aspect of his coaching model is the Catalyst Online Squad. This membership program offering weekly plans, video demonstrations, and live Q&A sessions. This program expands his coaching to a global audience, making high-quality guidance available worldwide.
In addition to running Catalyst, Parkinson regularly shares advice on competition strategies, emphasizing mental focus, efficiency, and the importance of enjoying the process, rather than solely focusing on results. As a result, Parkinson has expanded his coaching reach to a global audience, making bouldering training accessible worldwide.
Louis Parkinson has climbed up to 8B (V13) outdoors in Magic Wood, Switzerland.
Catalyst Climbing is a coaching organization founded by Louis Parkinson in 2017. It offers 1-on-1 coaching, remote consultations, and an online membership squad.
He earned the nickname Captain Cutloose due to his dynamic, high-energy climbing style, frequently releasing his feet (‘cutting loose’) during powerful momentum-driven movements.
Sources
Biographies & Official Sites
- Catalyst Climbing: Official website for Louis’s coaching business, detailing his training programs, remote consultations, and coaching philosophy.
- Wikipedia – Louis Parkinson: Biographical overview of his climbing background, GB Team competition statistics, and national placement history.
Interviews & Feature Podcasts
- The Nugget Climbing Podcast (Ep. 173): In-depth interview covering his approach to dynamic movement, indoor bouldering efficiency, and coaching strategies.
- Lattice Training Talk with Louis Parkinson: Discussion on training mindset, building power in movement, and making strength training engaging.
Climbing Profile & Logbooks
- Climbing History Profile: Profile documenting his notable outdoor achievements, including his 8B (V13) bouldering grade and E7 trad route.
Media & Social Channels
- Catalyst Climbing YouTube Channel: His primary YouTube channel featuring movement tutorials, coaching breakdowns, and climbing vlogs.
- Louis Parkinson’s Instagram: Official profile for training updates, coaching highlights, and personal climbing projects.
- IndiRock Feature: Coverage and collaborations involving indoor bouldering events and coaching sessions.