Get inclined to stay in shape, tune up for outdoor climbing season

By Olivia Venuta

Staying in shape in the cold winter months can be difficult. And let’s face it, treadmills and ellipticals get old. One way to add a little excitement is by joining a climbing gym this year. The full-body exercise is great for endurance, strength and coordination. You get to work out without the monotony. Here are some of the climbing gyms across Colorado that will get your blood flowing.

ASPEN

Red Brick Climbing Gym

This recreation center has plenty to offer with 3,100 square feet of climbing surface, including bouldering routes, and top-rope and training setups. There are classes for kids and adults, as well as outdoor climbing experiences. The recreation pass includes access to the pool, the weight room and the skating rink.

BOULDER

Boulder Rock Club

Voted the “Best of Boulder” 17 years in a row, the Rock Club is definitely worth a visit. The gym welcomes experts and beginners alike. There are classes tailored to children, adults, and even specific classes for women, lead by women.

COLORADO SPRINGS

Sport Climbing Center

Open every day, this Colorado Springs gym is ready for new climbers. Day passes are only $15. And compared to many gyms, the $60 monthly membership is on the less expensive side. Their staff is incredible and the climbing teams are always looking for fresh faces to join.

DENVER

Movement

With 20 climbing gyms across the country, Movement knows what is up. From yoga and fitness classes to private bouldering coaching, they have it all. Movement has Colorado locations in Boulder, RiNo, Baker, Englewood and Golden. Check out your nearest location to become a part of the Movement fitness community.

Mountain Strong Denver

Located north of Denver, Mountain Strong offers more than just rock walls and harnesses. They were voted one of the Best Gyms in Denver in 2018, and they’re eager to train anyone, from beginners to pro athletes. The gym is stocked with high-quality training equipment, Rogue bikes, power-lifting equipment, rowers and more.

ESTES PARK

Estes Park Mountain Shop

Just getting into climbing? Estes Park Mountain Shop offers a deal you cannot pass up. Purchase three climbs for $20 while staff members worry about your safety, so you can enjoy the climb. With over 4,500 feet of terrain and affordable membership fees, exercise has never been more fun.

FORT COLLINS

Ascent Studio Climbing and Fitness

Committed to inclusivity and inspiration, the Ascent Studio opens its doors to everyone. The studio holds events such as the Hometown Heroes competition and She Climbs for women. Ascent welcomes every skill level, gender and age.

GOLDEN

The Spot

After opening in October, the new gym boasts 11,000 square feet of rock climbing and fitness in downtown Golden. The Spot now has four locations (Boulder, Denver, Golden and Louisville) and your day pass or membership can unlock them all.

LONGMONT

Longmont Climbing Collective

The LCC has something for all ages. Parents Night Out on Fridays from 5:30 to 8 p.m. allows for fun on both ends: Drop the kids off for a night of climbing while you are enjoying an evening on the town. Plus, the LLC will be there for you to work it off in the morning, whether that’s yoga, fitness or climbing.

LOVELAND

Wooden Mountain

Open for just three years, Wooden Mountain has pushed through the tough times. The community is ready to share its mission: cultivating climbers to crush the world’s problems.

SILVERTHORNE

Summit Climbing Gym

“For climbers, by climbers” is a mantra that Summit Climbing Gym doesn’t take lightly. This co-op gym is member-owned and operated, so some climbing experience is needed. However, once you join the community, you will feel right at home.

Olivia Venuta, originally from Minnesota, recently graduated from the University of Denver with a bachelor’s degree in communications. She enjoys reading, skiing, golfing and a good glass of wine.