Definitions: What is considered "pushing leads"?

[SplashClimber]

Definitions: What is considered "pushing leads", vs "swinging leads"?

[montypiton]

"swinging leads" is the practice of alternating lead-climbers on a multi-pitch climb - one climber leads a pitch, then belays the partner who follows and cleans the pitch just led, and continues past the belay to lead the next pitch. although I can't say I've heard the phrase "pushing leads" I usually infer from "pushing" that a climber is testing or challenging him/her-self, as in "pushing the envelope" or "pushing the standard", so I would infer that "pushing a lead" may refer to a climber attempting to lead at, or very near, his/her limit.

[bstach]

I agree with Monty. But, depending on the context, it could also refer to establishing a new route - "Pushing a lead" to see if the route goes.

 

FYI, the opposite of "swinging leads" is "leading in blocks". That is, each climber leads several pitches before handing the lead over to his partner.