Meet the Machine: Patrick Donaldson

When/why did you decide to start training?

I wanted continuous improvement. I also started watching climbing movies/videos early on in my climbing career from which I drew inspiration. That made me want to dig deep within myself to try my hardest and set my goals high.

What made you choose to go with Power Company?

I’ve been listening to the podcast for a while and I liked the idea of having a tailored plan laid down to help with my goals.

What plan did you do and how did you choose that one?

I chose a Custom Plan. I had built a base and gained training knowledge from doing a Proven Plan and other resources, but I wanted to fine tune my weaknesses and really work on those while also still building on my strengths.

Did you work with a coach? If so, which one?

Yep! Paul Corsaro!

Pretty Hate Machine, V8 - Leavenworth, Washington | Photo by Micah Humphrey

What aspect of the plan did you like best? Why?

Paul showed me previous metrics from past cycles and offered loads of insight. I also appreciated him checking in and adjusting things to help me get the most out of my plan.

What aspect of the plan did you like least? Why?

I trust the process, so I don’t have much to comment on this yet.

What were your goals when you began the plan? How did you progress towards those goals?

I was looking for continued improvement, but I also wanted to train for some life-long dream boulders. My upcoming climbing trip was scrapped due to the pandemic, but having that fire helped me dig hard when I wanted to let go from a max hang and push through to another rep.

Tell us about any memorable successes during/after your training experience.

I couldn’t do a 90° isometric hang at the beginning, but I was psyched to get both sides to 3 seconds without assistance! Wooo! I also can do a campus drop and then max match - another skill I did not possess before. So psyched.

What's the next step in your climbing and training?

Train at home for the meantime, and then re-up with Paul once my gym opens again.

What would you say were the most important things (positive or negative) you learned during your training experience?

Stay with it. Don’t deviate. Trust the process and do things you suck at!

What would you consider your greatest strength or superpower when it comes to climbing?

Crimp/grip strength and persistence.

Seven Spanish Angels, V6 - Bishop, California | Photo by Catalina Clavijo

Tell us about your proudest (not necessarily hardest) send.

‘Seven Spanish Angels’ in Bishop. I got up early, rallied pads and friends, and started taking burns. I changed one little piece of beta mid-climb and it set me up for the last move to the bucket jug... tunnel vision to the hold… and before I knew it, I had stuck the move. Overcome with joy, I sat on top of the boulder full of energy and grateful for the experience. It reminded me why I climb; I’m looking for experiences - a striking line, a challenge, and a memory. Always in search of flow.

What would you say is a weakness or skill you need to improve in climbing?

High feet/heels, lateral campusing.

What advice would you give someone considering starting a training plan?

Trust the process! Work with your coach, be vocal.