In bouldering, dynamic techniques like the pogo (also known as the moon kick) and kipping are to execute powerful, coordinated movements. A dynamic movement refers to a type of move where the climber uses momentum and a burst of energy to reach for or grab a hold, rather than relying solely on static, controlled movements. These movements typically involve jumping, swinging, or “launching” from one hold to another, using speed and fluidity to cover more distance or make a reach that would be difficult with just a slow, deliberate, static effort.
Pogo (Also Called a Moon Kick)
The pogo technique involves swinging your leg to generate momentum, propelling your body toward the next hold. By swinging your leg, you harness centrifugal force to reach distant holds.
This technique is also known as the moon kick, named after British climber Ben Moon. It’s especially effective for dynamic moves where traditional static positioning isn’t feasible.
Why Use a Pogo?
Pogos are especially effective when:
- The next hold is far beyond your static reach.
- You are on a steep overhang with limited footholds.
- A purely static move isn’t feasible or efficient.
- You need to generate upward or lateral motion using momentum.
Unlike traditional dynos where all limbs leave the wall, pogos often leverage a leg swing while maintaining contact with a foothold, producing controlled propulsion.
Dynamic vs Static: Try Different Approaches When Solving a Boulder
When working on a boulder problem, it is important to recognize that there is rarely only one correct solution. In some situations, a dynamic approach using a pogo or moon kick is the most efficient way to generate momentum and reach the next hold. In other cases, the exact same move may be solved statically, depending on a climber’s body length, strength, flexibility, and personal style. Experimenting with both dynamic and static solutions not only improves problem-solving skills, but also helps climbers develop a broader technical toolkit. Understanding when a pogo is beneficial—and when controlled static movement is more effective—is a key step toward becoming a more versatile and efficient boulderer.
Execute a pogo (Moon kick)
- Set Up With a Counter-Movement
Position your body and initiate a slight counter-movement by swinging your free leg back. This sets the momentum for the kick. - Swing and Kick
Drive your free leg up and toward the direction of the target hold. This leg swing creates centrifugal force and helps drive your body upward or sideways. - Release and Catch at Dead Point
At the apex of the motion — when your body feels weightless — release your current handholds and reach for the next hold. Timing here is crucial for accuracy and control.
When Not to Use a Pogo
Although powerful, pogos are not always necessary:
- If a static reach or flagging move can get you to the next hold.
- On routes where precision outweighs explosive movement.
Balanced climbing technique combines static and dynamic movement based on the wall situation.
Related Bouldering Techniques
Dynamic movement often pairs with:
- Dynos and deadpoints (explosive reach moves)
- Kipping – coordinated swing using the core and legs
- Flagging and edging – for balance on steep walls
Including pogo technique in your climbing vocabulary will help you tackle more advanced problems and improve performance on dynamic sequences.
Kipping
In climbing, kipping refers to using a coordinated, full-body motion to generate upward momentum, often employed in overhanging sections or during dynamic movements. By engaging the core and swinging the legs, climbers can propel themselves upward more efficiently. This term is mostly used in gymnastics and CrossFit, where momentum aids in completing movements like pull-ups.
Sources
la crux – using pogoing when bouldering