Rock climbing was one of those things that I always thought was cool but didn't really intend to try out. But again, Groupon has given me the opportunity to check this place out. In turn, I'm really starting to like this (expensive) sport even if I am awful at it right now.
The Groupon was good for two people and it gives you access to a beginner's class once a week for 1 month. The classes are offered on Saturdays (that's the one I chose) and another day during the week (sorry, I forgot!). Along with the classes, they also give you one month of unlimited access with gear so you can come in a practice your skills. The one item not included but would be super useful is the hand chalk.
I'm not going to lie but when you walk in, it smells like stinky feet. But you get over this relatively quickly. The walls are covered in colorful rocks of different sizes. Parts of the ceiling are as well. I've never seen anything like it! It's quite overwhelming at first. You'll see really advanced folks traversing or climbing away, making themselves look oh so graceful. They have tape all over the walls, indicating the path you should take for a certain level.
Second and third floors are much smaller than the first. These floors are set up for bouldering, whereas the first floor you can actually get into a harness and utilize the ropes for climbing. I've always gone in the early evenings/late nights and the second and third floors are pretty packed. Perhaps it's better to go in the mornings.
I'm still a newbie at this. Learning all of the terms and techniques are boggling my brain! But with Matt the class instructor, I have confidence that I'll get better soon! Matt is super patient and is thorough with his explanations which I am super appreciative of!
Disclaimer to all those that have not done this: You will be sore. No joke. I look like a robot when I walk right now. You will get blisters on your hands. Battle wounds on your legs. But trust me, it's all worth it!