As the cold weather persists, many people are looking for ways to keep busy and moving. In a city abundant with nature trails and parks, it can be challenging to find fun activities that don’t involve being outdoors.
While rock climbing has always been popular amongst those looking for a thrill, interest and gym membership have spiked since the sport’s debut in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. In fact, over the past four years, the average number of indoor rock climbers grew annually by 3% nationally; Rochester is no exception.
There are two indoor rock climbing gyms operating downtown: RocVentures and Central Rock Gym.
RocVentures, located in a warehouse at 1044 University Ave., opened its doors in 1995 and is one of the oldest commercial rock climbing gyms in the country. But don’t let the age fool you, RocVentures is filled with state-of-the-art equipment and myriad climbing walls for all skill levels.
One of the focuses at RocVentures is making climbing accessible for all experience levels. The staff members are passionate about creating a supportive environment that encourages seasoned and new climbers alike to try new walls and break out of their comfort zone.
“RocVentures offers a friendly environment for new climbers,” said Operations manager Jaiden Widdall, adding that since RocVentures offers daily rentals for equipment and shoes, newcomers can experience climbing without a pricey financial commitment.
From toddlers to seniors, people of all ages can enjoy the challenge of rock climbing. Serge Lossa started climbing at 14 years old, and 63 years later, he is still climbing to relieve stress.
“Climbing is a complete commitment of your mind, you forgot everything,” he said. “When you climb, you are just fine.”
RocVentures features 42 different ropes spanning 13 walls, with varying range in difficulty. The numbered labels on each wall represent the difficulty; the easiest walls were labeled with low numbers and as the difficulty increases, the numbers got higher.
RocVentures also offered two types of climbing: auto belay and top rope. Auto belay climbing is when a machine automatically belays (prevents you from falling) while climbing. New climbers often start with auto belay climbing since it requires the least amount of instruction before climbers are able to climb on their own.
The staff members also teach top rope climbing. This is when someone on the ground belays the climber using a rope anchored at the top of the wall. Top rope climbing is a popular choice for those climbing with friends or a group.
RocVentures offers affordable membership rates and special deals during certain days, including a college discount night on Fridays. For more: rocventuresclimbing.com.
Meili Shepard is a student at the University of Rochester and a contributor to CITY.
This article appears in Dec 1-31, 2024.
