I didn't understand why you can A D move at the begining but then it's removed, maybe try to introduce the grapple mecanic at this time instead.
Controls are indeed really hard and punishing, too much for me, i manage after many attempts to do 4 obstacles in a row before falling. but i think the grapple is too slow and the avatar should have a little mort floatiness right after a grapple, he falls off too quickly.
I think it's really cool for a first jam, really liked the cinematic to introduce the game