Indoor Rock Climbing

Reach the indoor peaks

BY CHANDA RICHARDSON

Fall in the High Country can be peculiar, with the nights being cold and the days becoming warm. When visiting, it’s easy to wish to reach the top of some of the areas most breathtaking mountains, but when the weather isn’t in your favor, try to take on a different challenge with indoor rock climbing.

Located in Boone, Center 45 Climbing and Fitness is the destination when seeking for the thrill of indoor climbing. With several walls placed at different angles, climbers are able to challenge themselves to their liking.

Center 45 is known as the hub for climbing fitness and knowledge. The establishment offers guidebooks, training exercises and safety measures, all while you enjoy the slope you’re on.

“Here at Center 45, we are dedicated to creating safe and strong climbers, both indoors and outside,” Center 45 stated on its website. In addition to indoor climbing, they also offer locations for outdoor rock climbing when the weather is nice.

Upon entering Center 45, you will be met with 2,000 square feet of indoor climbing terrain. The walls offered are constructed at 14 feet at the apex with a variety of terrain. In addition to the walls, they also offer weightlifting activities as well as general fitness.

General day passes are offered at $14, with ages 12 and under, veterans, first PHOTO BY MOSS BRENNAN

Finan Kiser climbs one of the bouldering walls at Center 45. There are multiple routes for people to climb that are varying in difficulties.

responders and teachers getting a discount at $12. If you’re looking to stay in the area, memberships are also available at the adult/family.

If you’re looking for shoes and chalk, they are available to rent at $5 and $2 a day, respectively, or you can get a bundle for $6 a day. A waiver must be signed before taking on the challenge of the walls.

Center 45 Climbing and Fitness is located at 200 Den Mac Dr., Boone, NC 28607. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Monday from 3 to 9 p.m.

For more information on Center 45 and how to get into indoor rock climbing, visit their website at www.center45. com.

MORE INFORMATION

REI co-op, a recreation equipment retailer, has these tips for people to prepare to climb:

Warm up: Take the time to get the body used to a range of movement.

Crank up the power: Climbing and bouldering require upper body strength, but don’t neglect the lower limbs.

Build endurance: Build up endurance so muscles don’t get fatigued too soon and so you can climb continuously on longer routes and over longer periods.

Enhance balance: Improving balance will help to position your body better on the wall.