Title: Conquering Heights: A Rock Climbing Victory
Ditching the concrete jungle for some greener pastures, the Greatist crew ventured to Brooklyn Boulders, New York City's premier climbing gym. Before diving into the action, our guide, Ben Savitsky (the true rockstar of Brooklyn Boulders), equipped us with the fundamentals of safe climbing.
First on the agenda was tying a series of essential knots, such as the figure eight and the stopper, which served as our safety net, OT for Boy Scout novices. With our knotting prowess on point, Ben introduced us to belaying, the ground-bound art of securing a climber's safety. It's not all heroic saves with open arms - nope, belaying typically entails pulling tight and securing the rope, preventing a potential disaster.
With our newfound knowledge under our belts (no pun intended), we were ready to ascend the walls. Contrary to popular belief, exuding raw, upper body strength isn't a prerequisite for rock climbing. Ben assured us that dedication and loyalty to the sport would do the trick, regardless of our initial strength.
“Did I mention that I’ve witnessed numerous individuals with little to no upper body strength making their way up that wall,” Ben emphasized. “They fell in love with the sport, kept coming back, and watch their muscles transform.”
If you're intrigued by the idea of scaling the indoors mountains, check out Brooklyn Boulders on their social media platforms. Keep a sharp eye on Movement Gowanus in particular, Brooklyn's largest climbing gym (located in the heart of Cobble Hill and Park Slope).
Signing up for classes is a great starting point - look for introductory offerings like "Bouldering 101" or "Rope Climbing for Beginners." Seek out the gym's schedule and opt for classes with available spaces to secure your spot. Prices do vary, from flexible short-term plans to family-oriented memberships, but the base monthly rate hovers around $135.
But fear not if you're on the fence about making a long-term commitment - day passes are available for a more manageable $35. Should you be in need of gear, the gym offers competitively-priced gear rentals for your convenience. Fellow climbers may even assist in scoring you some referral credit, offers of exclusive perks, and discounts on gear and classes.
In conclusion, Brooklyn Boulders provides the ideal setting for newbies and seasoned climbers alike, so why not give it a go? Safe climbing was never so exciting and effortless.
Engaging in extreme sports can significantly enhance your fitness levels, and rock climbing at Brooklyn Boulders is no exception. Alternative gyms like Brooklyn Boulders offer weight management benefits, as climbing regularly can help burn calories and improve muscle tone. If you're hesitant about joining a gym due to the high costs, consider the affordable day passes or family-oriented memberships available at Brooklyn Boulders, making it an accessible option for many.
