John Gill (climber)

John Gill is a renowned American rock climber and pioneer of modern bouldering, known for his innovative techniques and influential style. Active mainly in the 1950s and 1960s, Gill helped transform climbing from a primarily outdoor activity into a recognized sport, emphasizing gymnastic strength, agility, and problem-solving skills. He popularized the use of controlled movement and mental focus on challenging short climbs called boulders. His pioneering work laid the foundation for contemporary climbing training methods and inspired generations of climbers worldwide.