Climbing the Walls in New York City

Visitors to the Big Apple and native New Yorkers looking for an indoors workout without breaking the bank might want to start climbing the walls. While it's illegal to climb the Brooklyn Bridge or New York City's landmark skyscrapers, one can venture indoors to one of New York City's indoor climbing gyms. In addition to providing an excellent adrenaline fueled workout that works all of one's body muscles, rock climbing tends to produce a sense of community among fellow climbers.

Manhattan Plaza Health Club's climbing gym offers 5,000 square feet of climbing surface that can accommodate newbies to the sport to the most experienced climber. Among the features included in this gym are a 160-foot bouldering route, two 20 ft. squeeze chimneys, a cave that includes a 40 ft. multi stepped lead roof set in average of 34 degrees and over 60 routes that are redesigned each month. A $100 learn to climb package features an orientation to learning the ropes, along with a month of free equipment rentals and unlimited use of the climbing gym. Those who want to just test the ropes can sign up for the orientation package which includes equipment rental, a day pass and instruction at a cost of $60 for non-members and $30.00 for Manhattan Plaza Health Club members. Those who have climbing experience can get a day pass to use the facility at a cost of $20 for adults and $15 for youth 14 and under. (Equipment rental is $8.00 extra.) Longer membership packages are available that can include access to the entire facility. For hours of operation and additional information, log on to their website at http://www.mphc.com/pages/facilities/climbing-gym.php.

Brooklynites can head over to Brooklyn Boulders where their 18,000 square feet climbing gym is the largest in the city. An introductory wall appeals to beginners and kids while more advanced climbers can check out the two massive bouldering areas feature 15, 30 and 45 degree overhangs, caves and a freestanding boulder with a 17-foot top out. Over 30 top ropes on terrain offer challenges for the beginner to expert climbers. Also, lead anchors are on the intermediate and expert terrain. Daily classes are available to help beginners learn the ropes along with a range of packages geared for everyone from those who want to test out the ropes to die hard climbers. Complete information about their hours of operation, range of programs available and other details can be found via their website at http://www.brooklynboulders.com.

Other New York City spots that offer an indoor rock climbing wall and classes include Aviator Sports & Events Center (http://www.aviatorsports.com/rock-climbing), Chelsea Piers (http://www.chelseapiers.com/spRock.htm), and the Rock Health and Fitness (http://www.therockhealthandfitness.com).