Midwesterners with January workout goals have one distinct disadvantage – the weather. If stationary bikes and bicep curls aren’t exciting, consider indoor rock climbing. This exercise is surprisingly beginner-friendly and provides a true overall workout. Wall climbing builds stamina, mobility and flexibility. It also stimulates and focuses attention by solving problems: you can’t think about anything else while you decide which ledge or foothold to grab next.
Men’s climbing nosotros climbing gym
In Cleveland, Nosotros Rock Climbing Gym has two locations with a particularly welcoming atmosphere. The non-profit model supports a variety of local causes, large and small. | Photo credit: Courtesy of NOSOTROS Rock Climbing Gym Right: Classes at North Mass Boulder, a new facility in Indianapolis’ Bottleworks district, focus on endurance, explosiveness, strength and stability. | Photo credit: Courtesy of NORTH MASS BOULDER
That’s why the pressure is off when you stick to a route, says Peter Stancato, founder of the Cleveland nonprofit Nosotros Rock Climbing Gym. After trying climbing at a pre-wedding party, he opened Nosotros as a welcoming space where strangers can become community.
Women’s Indoor Climbing Iowa Rock Wall
With 200 routes, Climb Iowa is the state’s largest climbing gym, located north of Des Moines. A satellite location downtown specializes in rock hugging – lower heights, but no ropes. | Credit: Dylan Huey Right: Last fall, national chain Movement opened its first Midwest location in Chicago’s Ridgelyville and Lincoln Park. The weight and aerobics area overlooks a colorful climbing wall. | Photo credit: MICHAEL “M” HECKER
“We love the close relationship between climbing and people,” says Stancato. Put on your climbing shoes (most gyms will rent them) and take a beginner’s class, then try climbing instead of working out once or twice a week.
3 Tips for New Climbers
Get friendly
Bring a friend the first time and plan to make new friends on the wall. Climbers love to help beginners get the hang of things, and chatting adds to the fun.
Looking ahead
Climbing can put your body in unnatural positions – and high up! Prevent panic by paying attention to what’s in front of you and how your body feels.
Moving on
Every new climber feels physically challenged and a little uncomfortable. Learning to remove the obstacles you set for yourself is a rewarding experience.
