Summer is almost over, but the heat still remains. If you’re dying to get a good workout but can’t stand the heat, indoor rock climbing is the perfect activity.
The popularity of this sport is increasing because it does not only cater to adults. Even very young children can have fun in a safe environment, something that is not possible with outdoor rock climbing. Supervisors and trainers are always available if you need advice or if you find yourself stuck at an awkward height.
Like many full-body workouts, indoor rock climbing works your entire body. You don’t need super strong arms and legs to climb, just sign up for a beginner class to get started. It helps if your fitness levels are better than negligible, but that shouldn’t stop you from trying.
So what exactly does indoor climbing do? It focuses on the entire body but puts an emphasis on the hands and forearms, areas that are often neglected in ordinary workouts. The two of you are the first to tire and even if you’re fit as a fiddle, you’ll be surprised how exhausted you feel in the first five minutes.
A great calorie burner.
According to research, climbing indoors and outdoors burns up to 970 calories per hour, depending on gender and height. And the calorie burn doesn’t stop there. Even rappelling down is a workout, capable of shedding 700 calories an hour.
For comparison, a 160-pound person will burn about 730 calories in an hour jumping rope. Despite the small difference in calories burned, indoor climbing is more fun and the safe environment makes it ideal for children, teens, adults, and seniors. You don’t have to climb fast either; Just the effort exerted to climb several feet has a huge impact on the number of calories and weight you lose.
great for flexibility
If flexibility isn’t a strong point, indoor climbing can change that by forcing you to work your muscles. The first few sessions will be brutal, but keep it up and you’ll be amazed at how much your range of motion has increased, especially around the shoulders and hips.
A nice boost of brain power
Climbing requires thought. You have to figure out the best way to get to the top using a minimum number of moves to conserve energy. This strategy increases problem-solving skills and improves hand-eye coordination, two traits not found in many standard exercise movements.
Expand social networks
In an indoor climbing facility, several people exercise at the same time. It acts as a meeting place for like-minded people, so if you’re looking to expand your social network or just need a place to meet up with friends, few places have this feature. Even businesses can benefit from using it for a corporate outing. Some gyms offer package deals that cater to businesses, so pitch the idea to your boss the next time you’re planning an office outing.
All climbers will tell you that indoor climbing is addictive. In fact, you won’t be able to get enough of it. It doesn’t get boring as there are always new challenges and if you progress from the beginner stage you will find yourself setting higher goals in the next session.