Climbing: Why should more parents and their kids climb together?

Siegrist: Each generation no doubt has something different to offer the other. I think climbing with my dad and his buds has made me humble and well rounded, while him climbing with my friends and me has made him try harder and go outside his comfort zone. We each appreciate the other greatly for this.

Climbing: What type of climbing do you prefer?

Siegrist: I prefer long, beautiful routes and I tend to really enjoy super technical climbs with heinous crimps. I also really love old school climbs with interesting history.

Climbing: What appeals to you most about that type of climbing?

Siegrist: The longer the route, the more climbing! Beautiful lines inspire and technical routes take a certain dedication that I find really rewarding. Plus I am much more technical than I am purely strong. Old school lines are always the most aesthetic because the old school climbers had free reign on loads of untouched rock.

Climbing: How often do you go climbing? /Do you train?

Siegrist: I climb as much as I can between rest days, work, and school. I train 5-6 days a week in the winter, and while during the warmer months I climb less frequently, it is mostly outside.

Climbing: You and your girlfriend, Marisa, climb together a lot, too – how did you two meet, and what is the secret to being a happy couple that climbs well together?

Siegrist: We actually met in middle school originally and have been friends while growing up. We didn't start dating until early last year. I'm not sure that I know the secret to a climbing couple, but what seems to work for us is just remembering and respecting the fact that we each have our own goals and attitudes about climbing that are often not the same.