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Optimizing Motor Control and Motor Learning in Climbing - Joe Manoles

The Climbing Doctor Podcast

Release Date: 09/01/2025

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In this conversation, Jared Vagy and Joe Manoles discuss the concepts of motor learning and motor control, particularly in the context of climbing. They explore key terminology, the stages of motor learning, and practical applications for climbers. The discussion also delves into personal challenges faced by climbers, types of practice and feedback, and the importance of understanding individual learning styles. The conversation emphasizes the significance of feedback mechanisms and learning strategies in improving climbing performance.

Joe Manoles's Bio

  • Dr. Joe Manoles PT, DPT is a healthcare professional in Bend, Oregon specializing in the treatment, recovery, and performance of climbers and mountain athletes. His care is characterized by his compassion, attention to detail, and dedication to holistic care. He believes strongly in the core pillars of health as a need for all human beings and their direct influence on our experience on Earth. In order to understand the complexity of health systems, Joe received a B.S in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology with a minor in Microbiology. He continued his education at Oregon State University-Cascades receiving his Doctorate of Physical Therapy and has sought out continuing educational mentorship and coursework through a variety of trusted resources in the climbing community including The Climbing Doctor, The Climb Clinic, and Camp 4 Human Performance. These days, if he isn’t working on his new business Dissonance Performance and Physical Therapy, he is spending time with his spouse Taylor Manoles and their 4 year-old border collie Finn, climbing, snowboarding, and exploring the breathtaking beauty of central Oregon.

Chapters

  • 00:00 Introduction to Motor Learning and Control
     
  • 02:54 Understanding Key Terminology
     
  • 06:00 Stages of Motor Learning in Climbing
     
  • 08:45 Applying Motor Learning to Climbing Techniques
     
  • 12:06 Overcoming Challenges in Climbing Skills
     
  • 14:58 Types of Practice and Feedback in Climbing
     
  • 18:02 The Role of Feedback in Skill Development
     
  • 21:09 Conclusion and Summary of Key Concepts
     
  • 24:41 Exploring Climbing Preferences and Techniques
     
  • 27:03 The Learning Process in Climbing
     
  • 30:13 Feedback Mechanisms in Climbing
     
  • 35:03 Error-Driven vs. Errorless Learning
     
  • 39:23 Guided vs. Discovery Learning
     
  • 40:38 Understanding Bandwidth in Feedback
     
  • 42:13 Final Thoughts on Motor Learning in Climbing

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Books, Injury Protocols, and Rehab Tools

Injury Rehab Coures