Featured Class
November 2009
Climbing School
Climbing is all about challenging yourself. You never stop improving, from the first time you put your foot onto a wall to the elite level, because there’s always a harder climb you can aspire to next. And while expert climbers make it look easy, the sport is intense, combining focus, strength and flexibility. But it’s also easier than it may seem to a leery beginner.
– Elena Rover,
The Chelsea Piers Fitness Solution (2007)
For these reasons and more, rock climbing is a must-try for all Sports Center members. Looking to build the confidence to give climbing a try? Belay on, climbers!
Climbing School is comprised of four, 90-minute climbing lessons over the course of one month. Climbers must have their belay certification (complimentary certification for members) prior to taking this class.
After reviewing the basics, including knot tying and belaying, you will complete a progression of climbs to learn the fundamentals of climbing technique. Moving up the wall may look like a piece of cake for experts, but there is plenty of thought and skill that goes into each and every maneuver.
Core concepts include controlling your balance on the wall, stance and grip. Believe it or not, even something as simple as your grip has a theory behind it. “The key to an effective grip is relaxation. Over-gripping will wear out your muscles very quickly,” explains David Silverstein, expert climber and instructor.
You will also learn that it is best to turn your body for an efficient climb, alternating sides throughout the ascent. “Move your limbs, shift your body weight and repeat. It’s that easy,” jokes David. He also suggests climbing with no hands as a way to learn to shift properly. As a result, get ready to tackle the wall with only your legs!
After your first two sessions, you will start to trust your feet on the wall. You’ll see a move and execute it instead of propelling yourself toward the next hold. Say goodbye to the red and yellow routes and hello to smaller holds, tougher routes and better technique. You will learn to take breathers if you need to because it will extend your endurance. You’ll also experiment with bouldering – no ropes or grigris here, just you and a crash pad.
Upon completion of Climbing School, you will possess balance, stance, strength and confidence on the wall. Next step - the Gunks!
This class is open to members and non-members. To register for Climbing School, please call the Rock Wall at 212.336.6083 or click here.