Inclusive Climbing For People With Limb Loss And Limb Differences In Cologne
Throwback to the month of May: This past weekend, the chalk dust settled on an inspiring tester session at a local climbing gym in Cologne - a big shout-out to the Kletterfabrik in Ehrenfeld -, where individuals with limb loss and limb differences came together to challenge gravity, push their own boundaries, and question widely-held perceptions.
Hosted by LENTES PROTHESENWERKSTATT in collaboration with me and supported by other experienced climbers and a coach, the event created a safe and welcoming environment for people of all ability levels to experience the thrill of indoor climbing. Whether participants were seasoned climbers or completely new to the wall, the emphasis was on accessibility, on encouragement, on joy, and on community.
Voices From The Wall
“It's great that people are getting together. Whether it's climbing or running, at the end of the day, every event that brings the community together is enjoyable and exciting, and it always leads to new acquaintances and friendships.” sais Jan, certified prosthetist and owner of LENTES PROTHESENWERKSTATT and the main organizer of th event.
“I had so much fun at the climbing event! I love taking on new challenges and developing myself in the process. The exchange with other prosthesis wearers was particularly enriching—on equal terms, honest, and inspiring. Such encounters are invaluable to me because we learn from each other and give each other real added value”, sais Natalie, one of the participants.
Coaches and volunteers echoed the sentiment. “Climbing is about problem-solving — not perfection,” sais Antonia, one of the volunteers and an experienced climber herself. “Seeing everyone find their own way up the wall is what makes this so powerful.”
Building Toward The Future
This tester session is just the beginning. See what is needed, what is welcome, what support is added value while gaining experience in providing adaptive climbing equipment for the participants to try out.
Organizers hope it will pave the way for regular adaptive climbing meetups in Cologne, helping to foster a more inclusive climbing community across the region. Plans are already underway to offer another session later in the year, integrate prosthetic fittings with climbing analysis, and encourage gym staff on working with climbers with disabilities.
If you missed this session but are interested in future events, stay tuned and follow LENTES PROTHESENWERKSTATT as well as The Active Amputee on social media.
Climbing For Everybody And Every Body
Whether you have a limb difference, are exploring new ways to move, or are simply looking for a supportive and inclusive space, this growing community welcomes you. Adaptive climbing is more than a sport — it’s a movement.
Let’s keep climbing, together.
The Video FRom The Event
Post by Bjoern Eser. Bjoern is the founder of and shaker and maker behind The Active Amputee.
Further Reading
Accept, adapt, achieve
Life after amputation may feel like venturing into unknown territory. From learning how to move your new body to researching the costs of activity-specialized prosthetic arms & legs, it is daunting and frustrating to resume an active lifestyle after limb loss. In August 2021, I lost my left leg in an emergency above-knee amputation. I could not fathom what my life would look like post-op. In the hospital, I promised myself to take advantage of every opportunity I came across and to attempt activities outside my comfort zone. I needed to resume living, and for me, that meant returning to activities as soon as possible. "Accept, adapt, achieve" became my new motto. read more
Dealing with volume fluctuations
Here is a problem many active above knee amputees know all too well. A problem that is often overlooked as more and more attention is given to the newest developments around high-tech knees and other exciting advancements in the prosthetic sector. It’s the problem of a proper fit of the socket. It’s the key to using your prosthetic leg to its full potential. And how to deal with fluctuations in the volume of your residual limb - and thus with the fit of your socket. Read more
Cycling to regain my life
Today’s article is all about cycling and how it helped Stephen from South Africa’s wonderful Western Cape to come back after a tragic motorcycle accident. The idea for the interview arose during a chat with Jen from ClickMedical, who mentioned Stephen and his inspiring outdoor adventures and brokered the contact. „Thanks Jen I really appreciate these contacts!“ Here is my interview with Stephen. Enjoy! read more