Take advantage of the rock wall in the Wabash Recreation Center! (Photo by Ka Vang ’16)
This blog post is to all those people who want a change of pace in their workout routine. For me, I get tired of the constant gym routine and I like to switch it up every now and then. One of the latest fitness trends is rock climbing. Rock climbing can be a physically and mentally demanding sport that can test mental toughness and endurance and without proper knowledge, it can be dangerous. But many people don’t realize the benefits that it can have.
Many don’t think of rock climbing as cardio, but according to an article in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the cardio and energy exerted in rock climbing is similar to running at a pace of 8-11 minutes a mile. It requires an increase in a range of motion, which will also increase the flexibility of the climber.
As well as strengthening both your upper and lower body, rock climbing will strengthen your mental health. By figuring out the routes to take to ascend, whether indoor or outdoor, you are learning problem solving skills. Just like any other exercise, rock climbing reduces stress. By increasing levels of norepinephrine, a sense of ecstasy can be felt through the reaching, climbing and leaping.
Winona is a great place to enjoy some rock climbing. We have our very own rock climbing center in the Wabasha Recreation Center that has nearly 6,000 square feet of climbing surface, 32 top ropes, two bouldering walls, belay edge and a traditional climbing anchor practice wall. The center is open to all. And if you are itching to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather, the OREC has open climbing on Tuesdays at Sugarloaf.
