Now that we know how and why to use a System Board, we need to put together an actual setup. I’ve been through this process, so I realize how difficult it can be. How tall, how wide, what angle, and perhaps most difficult, which holds and in which configuration? Of course, the answer depends largely on the space, budget, and needs of the specific users. So let's take a look at not only our specific wall, but at the basics of how to decide what your wall should look like.

Size:

Our Engine Room wall, like many of yours will be, was largely dictated by the available space. Lucky for us, we had just enough room to make our wall pretty much exactly to the specs that I wanted. 6'6" wide by 8'10" long, with a 12" high kicker, provided just enough wall space to be a full arm span wide and no more than 3-4 moves tall. We use our wall largely for strength and power training (though it could easily be used for power endurance training), so the 3-4 move height works perfectly for our needs.

Let's say for the sake of this post that you have an unlimited amount of space. What’s the absolute ideal size?

In my opinion, there is little reason for length to exceed 10-12 feet. If an impressive looking wall is one of your needs, then maybe you’d find a reason to go taller, but for training purposes, more than 5-7 moves is generally going to be overkill.

As far as width goes, I could see going as wide as 12 feet or so. Beyond two arm spans and I can’t see the reasoning. This should basically look like a 6 foot wide bouldering wall connected to its mirror image. With a high hold density, you’ve got endless problem possibilities.

Angle: