The Barnes Center at The Arch is unique to Syracuse University. The newly renovated wellness center offers 50 fitness classes per week, four floors of gym equipment, a basketball court, a 25 yard pool and, my personal favorite, rock climbing walls. The rock climbing walls in the Barnes Center are one of the first things you notice when entering the building.

It was something I immediately wanted to try at SU when I moved in last fall. I unfortunately never got the chance once I was consumed with challenging college classes, new friends and social activities. But last week, after I worked out with a friend at the Barnes Center, we decided to try rock climbing before leaving. I’ve been back twice since then and highly encourage other students to try the fascinating sport of climbing.

Because climbers are focused on strategically gaining height on the wall, the activity doesn’t feel like a workout. Once your feet hit the floor after the first climb, you realize how much of your body’s muscles were being used. Many people are unaware of the major health benefits that rock climbing has when done regularly, as it seems like a fun activity to occasionally partake in but not a common workout.

Most of the muscles used when rock climbing include those in the upper body, back, core and arms. Rock climbing is easier in the beginning for those with a background in dance or yoga, as rock climbing challenges you to have good balance and coordination. Over time, it can improve flexibility, balance and coordination, and it simultaneously gives you a major cardio workout.

Along with physical health benefits, rock climbing can help mental health. Climber News said they feel that rock climbing has even more mental health benefits than it does physical. Rock climbing is typically a very healthy sport for the mind, as it comes with a supportive community and skills to challenge one’s mentality. It also forces the brain to be focused and attentive on multiple aspects at once.

Where your hand reaches and where your next foot is placed must be coordinated at the perfect timing to avoid falling. It takes endurance, trust in yourself and the courage to try again after the occasional fall. It is almost like a physical meditation, since you are unable to think about anything else while climbing.

Rock climbing has many emotional benefits too. The important aspect of rock climbing that people need to accept before trying the sport is that you will fail. Accepting the possibility of falling each time you climb the wall helps build resilience and an ability to challenge yourself and take risks.

The first climb can be daunting, but the community at SU makes you feel welcome no matter your skill level. Going to the wall at the Barnes Center with a friend is a good way to get started. You will both be in the same position, encouraging each other during your climb. Additionally, the staff there is ready to help guide you through your first rock climbing experience. They can be found wearing blue vests and will tell you everything you need to know before taking your first step on the wall.

Jean Aiello is a freshman magazine, news and digital journalism major. Her column appears biweekly. She can be reached at jdaiello@syr.edu.

Published on February 23, 2022 at 10:04 pm