by Karl Lenser
Looking for something new, fun and exciting to add to your fitness program? Try an INDOOR CLIMBING WALL for an exhilarating experience that you and your kids will enjoy and always remember.
Indoor climbing walls have been increasing in popularity over the past decade – especially within collegiate fitness centers and with the advent of climbing-specific gyms. What makes these indoor climbing walls so popular is that they provide a totally new experience for many participants and are a lot of fun. They also offer a fantastic opportunity for families to exercise together in a non-intimidating, family-friendly environment.
From a fitness perspective, rock climbing provides an incredible opportunity to increase one’s balance, flexibility, muscular strength and muscular endurance. Based on experience, I can also add that rock climbing definitely increases your heart rate (especially when getting near the top of the wall!). The climbing experience is both a positive and rewarding one that makes you want to come back another day to improve your skills and confidence. For some individuals, climbing a rock wall provides a new challenge that adds to their current exercise routine.
And the benefits of rock climbing are not just derived from the physical aspect of wellness. At the Hendrix College Climbing Wall, we have hosted dozens of birthday parties for kids and have noticed a big boost in self confidence in many of the young climbers after just a few attempts at the wall. Many kids are a bit intimidated when they first approach the wall, but after a few climbs, they become more aggressive and confident as they take on more challenging routes.
Unlike some sports, rock climbing, because it is so unique and new to everyone, is kind of like a “great equalizer” when it comes to athletic skills. For example, Johnny, the super star soccer player may have a tough time conquering the wall, but Jimmy, who is a less skilled soccer player, may excel at the wall. It is rewarding to see how the wall levels the playing field for the kids. Everyone starts at ground zero when climbing the wall for the first time.
One of the myths that surfaces when discussing rock climbing is that “it is dangerous!”
The reality is that rock climbing is very safe because every climber works with a partner or “belayer” that serves as a safety valve for the climber. The climber and belayer are both outfitted with a climbing harness that allows the pair to work as a team as the climber ascends the wall. The belayer adjusts the tension on the rope in order for the climber to get up the wall. All people who belay go through a 15-20 minute training session that reviews safety procedures that ensures that the climbing will be a safe experience.
As far as equipment goes, one does not need to invest in any special gear. Comfortable workout clothing and shoes that have a soft outer sole work best. The more flexible the shoe, the better it works for climbing. Some climbing centers will even rent climbing shoes to guests or members.
So where can you go to find an indoor climbing wall in the Conway/Little Rock area?
Conway: Hendrix College Wellness & Athletics Center
Members can utilize the wall for free as part of their membership.Guests pay $10 for a daily pass. No charge for shoe rental.
Family Night on the Rock Program is being held 5-8 p.m. every Thursday evening. For $5/person, adults and kids can climb the wall. In addition to Family Night on the Rock, a Kids Climbing Camp will be held 9 a.m. to noon Wednesday, July 15, through Friday, July 17. For information, call 501.505.2966 or visit www.hendrix.edu/wac.
Little Rock: The Little Rock Climbing Center
Located on Colonel Glenn Road. The LRCC offers daily passes from $10- $12 with a $6 fee for gear rental. Monthly memberships are available. There are a multitude of climbing stations for novices and experienced climbers. For more information, contact the LRCC at 501.227.9500 or visit [email protected].