The Zen Master of Greek Limestone
Based in: Leonidio, Greece
Specialties: Movement & Flow, Mental Training, Performance Coaching, Multi-pitch
Credentials: BSc Sport Science (University of Athens), Tyrolean Sport Climbing Instructor (Bergsportführer Association), Certified Yoga Teacher (Hatha)
The Story
Born on the rugged island of Crete, Kostas discovered climbing at 16 and never looked back. Unlike many who simply "climb hard," Kostas took a scientific approach to the vertical world. He moved to Athens to earn a degree in Sport Science, simultaneously climbing at a competitive level and becoming a certified coach by the Greek General Secretariat of Sports.
After years of coaching top-tier competition athletes in Athens’ climbing gyms, Kostas followed the call of the wild to Leonidio. Today, he is a cornerstone of the Greek climbing scene—not just as a coach, but as a prolific route developer and crag maintainer for the South Kynouria municipality.
The Coaching Philosophy: Performance Meets Zen
Kostas isn’t your average "pull harder" coach. His approach is deeply holistic, blending high-level sports science with the mental clarity of a certified yoga instructor (trained in Rishikesh, India).
At Rockbusters, Kostas focuses on the "Movement & Flow" aspect of climbing. He believes that peak performance happens when the physical, technical, and mental states are in perfect alignment. He specializes in helping climbers break through plateaus by identifying subtle movement inefficiencies and overcoming the psychological barriers—like the fear of falling—that hold them back from their true potential.
Why Climb with Kostas?
Whether you are transitioning from the gym to the crag or trying to unlock 8a movement, Kostas brings a calm, methodical, and deeply supportive energy to his sessions. He has a unique talent for simplifying complex technical concepts, making them accessible and actionable mid-route.
Expect to finish a week with Kostas not just as a stronger climber, but as a more mindful athlete who understands how to connect with the rock, find a state of flow, and climb with total presence.
Fast Facts
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Favorite Crag: The orange walls of Leonidio.
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Proudest Achievement: Helping climbers transition from "followers" to independent lead athletes.
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Hidden Talent: Can guide you through a pre-climb yoga flow that will make your high-steps feel weightless.
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Mission: To help you find your "true self" through the therapeutic power of the outdoors.
Google Tag Info for Kostas’s Profile:
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Title: Kostas Grafanakis | Performance Climbing Coach & Guide | Rockbusters
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Description: Meet Kostas Grafanakis: Rockbusters coach, sport scientist, and Leonidio local. Specializing in movement flow, mental training, and holistic climbing performance.
