So you’re trying to stay in shape, but the thought of spending yet another mind-numbing hour on the elliptical machine or arch trainer sends you into a tailspin. You run so often, trampled and torn, that you ask for something else; a physical challenge unlike anything you’ve tried before. How about one of the fastest growing sports around the world: rock climbing? It’s exciting, dangerous, and a great way to stay fit both physically and mentally.
How do you get started though? Of course, there are many public lands and parks where great rock climbing is available, but if you’re stuck on a weekend in the city where are you going Well, you’re in luck, because there are many indoor facilities that cater to both the beginning and the expert tailor, and the following three are a good place to start here in New York City.
Manhattan Plaza Health Club
In its thirty-some years of existence, Manhattan Plaza Health Club has expanded into a 35,000-foot complex and positioned itself as the premium fitness facility in New York. (Not only do they offer rock climbing, but other activities that you wouldn’t expect in reality. .) The highlight of the facility though is the climbing gym, which covers approximately five thousand square feet and offers over 60 routes that are renewed monthly to challenge even the most experienced climbers. There is also a cave where many people lead a step and put on the roof, twenty feet of pressed stove, and 160 feet of winding road.
The hosts of gym workshops, seminars and competitions, and their instructors have an average of three years of experience in outdoor climbing which should encourage beginners. Special rates are offered for adult memberships and child child parties, and unlimited use of the gymnasium is included. to associate (Band and shoe rentals are available for a nominal fee.)
M.P.H.C.
482 W. 43rd Street
(212) 563-7001.
Peter’s Field House at Chelsea
Although smaller in size, the twenty-three foot rock wall at Camp House at Chelsea Piers is ideal for both beginners and experienced climbers. You can learn new skills from their staff, and they invite climbers to receive Camp House belay certification in any of their classes.
Adult sessions are held on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings, but will vary in size depending on the number of participants. They also have children’s classes and parties, noting “Individuals and small groups are welcome. All equipment is included” All in all , Chelsea is a strong choice for beginners or those who are simply more aware.
A field house
Between Peter 61 & 62
23rd St. & Hudson River Park
Exceptions (212) 336-6500 ext. 0
Extra Vertical Climbing Center
This is an accessible climbing center right in the heart of the Mediterranean that you’ve overlooked, even though it’s been here for at least ten years. The outside Vertical Climbing Center has both a thirty-foot wall and a fifty-foot wall below on the sidewalk tower. This particular facility positions itself as kid-centric and notes: “The staff is professional, safe and family friendly. Kids and adults can stop at any time and try climbing, or they can take classes that improve mental focus, coordination, balance and flexibility.’
Like Chelsea Piers, Extra Vertical does birthday parties or any other private occasion.
Extra Vertical
Broadway between 62nd & 63rd
(212) 586-5382.
For those of you who choose one, do yourself a favor and put away the poor treadmill, get off the spin bike, put down the free weights… and start climbing!
Sources:
NYMetroparents, http://www.nymetroparents.com/bestbetsinfo.cfm?id=22753&catid;=175
Indoorclimbing.com, http://www.indoorclimbing.com/newyork.html
Manhattan PlazaHealth Club, http://www.mphc.com/pages/ facilities/climbing-gym.php
Chelsea Piers, http://www.chelseapiers.com/fhAdRock.htm
