In Part 1, we talked about ways to start from scratch in rock climbing. Part 2 of the Climbing Philadelphia series focuses on indoor learning and social climbing experiences for intermediate climbers. Classes are geared toward climbers with experience indoors who need to hone skills, and for folks looking to meet other climbers around Philly.
Philadelphia Rock Climbing Meet-Up Group - This group, supported by TerraMar Adventures on Meet-up.com, is designed to connect Philadelphia-area climbers. It's how I made the bulk of my climbing friends when I moved to Philly in 2007, and I'm so thankful for all the folks who took the time to get me involved in the group.
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| TerraMar and the meet-up group after ice climbing last winter! |
If you're new to the area and need a gym intro, looking for a climbing partner, or just want to climb with some friendly folks, this group's the ticket. Between Go Vertical evening climbs, trying out other Philly area gyms, and the occasional outdoor climbing trip in the summer, it's a great way to meet fellow rock enthusiasts. The message board is full of folks requesting partners and looking for others to climb outside with. While it's not only reserved for intermediate and advanced climbers, it's certainly preferable that you've got belaying experience for the evening climbs. If you don't, here are some great ideas about how to get started! Outdoor trips are also geared toward all skill levels, and there will even be an occasional guided ice climbing trip. Costs vary, but membership is free! Event length and gear requirements vary. RSVPs required, some events required advance payment.. More info here.
Fighting Gravity Series (Climbing 201), Philly Rock Gyms - This three-night course covers proper body positions for climbing efficiency, dynamic movements, and learning how to use your legs to climb. It's a perfect way to really hone those movement skills, and to understand how to be more efficient on the wall. Climbers can attend all three sessions, or an individual evening to brush up on a specific skill. Then, when you're ready for the next step, take their Fighting Gravity Series: The Next Step (Climbing 202) classes! Costs $80/person for all three sessions, $30/person for a single session. Each session is 1 1/2 hours in length.Reservations required. More info here.
4-Part Climbing Clinic, Go Vertical - This four night course focuses on learning to climb stronger and more efficiently through new techniques and identifying both strengths and weaknesses. The series must be taken in its entirety, as each class builds on what climbers learn and practice in the previous sessions. Sessions cover footwork, bodywork, dealing with overhangs, and drills to practice. Costs $165/person. Each session is 2 hours in length. Reservations required. More info here.
Local Bouldering Competitions! Bouldering comps can be an amazing way to meet new climbers, hone your skills, and bring out your competitive edge. Even if you're a V0 boulderer, they're a blast. You'll find yourself elbow to elbow with some of the best boulderers out there, and when you're up climbing, they'll be cheering for you. I've found most competitors friendly, helpful, and encouraging. They can be a great ego boost, and seeing how the pros do it always helps. I went to my first one last fall, and it was both confidence building and incredibly fun!
Most bouldering competitions are split into categories for scoring so you can be sure you'll be measured against climbers of similar abilities. The Philly Rock Gyms host a handful of comps throughout the year, including the upcoming Midnight Burn in January.