The Unconventional Hobby of NFL Player Wes Schweitzer: Rock Climbing

Wes Schweitzer, the New York Jets offensive lineman, found solace in an unconventional hobby during his NFL career – rock climbing. It all began a few years ago when he was rehabilitating a hyperextended elbow, and he has since developed a deep passion for the sport.

Scaling rocks hand over hand, foot over foot, Schweitzer sometimes experiences moments of helplessness when he loses his grip and plummets a few feet before the safety rope catches him. Despite the initial fear, he finds joy and exhilaration in these sometimes-harrowing moments.

As a 6-foot-4, 325-pound athlete, Schweitzer is certainly an anomaly in the world of rock climbing, a sport usually dominated by smaller individuals. His climbing adventures range from indoor rock walls at gyms to bouldering on small formations without ropes.

Using climbing as a way to stay in shape in the offseason, Schweitzer also credits the sport for his improved performance on the football field. Climbing challenges him physically and mentally, pushing him to his limits and building his confidence.

Despite the initial skepticism from his football team, Schweitzer has made climbing an integral part of his training routine, emphasizing safety above all. The benefits, he says, are immense, enhancing his core strength, power production, and overall physical performance.

Looking ahead, Schweitzer dreams of free climbing El Capitan, a monumental rock formation in Yosemite National Park. His ambition and determination have set him apart, both on and off the field, making him a unique and inspiring figure among his teammates.

Up to Speed

As Schweitzer continues to pursue his dual passions of football and rock climbing, he remains a testament to the unyielding spirit of athletes who break boundaries and defy expectations.