Rock Climbing Together: Strengthening Family Bonds and Building Confidence
Rock climbing together as a family has a ton of physical, emotional, and psychological benefits for climbers of all ages.
Looking for a fun and fulfilling activity that the whole family can enjoy together? Look no further than rock climbing! Whether you're scaling the walls of Gecko Climbing Gym or tackling outdoor crags, rock climbing offers a host of benefits for families, from physical fitness to psychological well-being. Let's explore why rock climbing as a family is a fantastic idea.
Developmental Benefits for Young Children:
Physical Development: Rock climbing is a full-body workout that helps children develop strength, coordination, and balance. Climbing involves using both large muscle groups and fine motor skills, making it an excellent activity for overall physical development.
Problem-Solving Skills: Climbing routes present a series of challenges that require problem-solving and critical thinking. Children learn to assess the best path to reach the top, strategize their moves, and adapt to changing situations—all valuable skills that translate to other areas of life.
Confidence Building: Successfully climbing a route boosts children's self-esteem and confidence. Overcoming obstacles and achieving goals—whether it's reaching the top of the wall or mastering a difficult move—helps children develop a sense of accomplishment and resilience.
Does your young climber LOVE their time on the wall? Have you considered a trial with one of our Youth Climbing teams?
Psychological Benefits for the Whole Family:
Bonding Time: Rock climbing provides an opportunity for families to bond and connect in a unique and exciting way. Working together to belay, encourage, and support each other fosters trust, communication, and teamwork within the family unit.
Stress Relief: Climbing can be a great stress reliever for both children and adults. The physical activity releases endorphins, which boost mood and reduce stress levels. Plus, the focus required to climb helps quiet the mind and provides a mental escape from everyday worries.
Sense of Achievement: Climbing challenges families to push their limits and step outside their comfort zones. Whether it's trying a new route or conquering a fear of heights, achieving personal goals together fosters a sense of achievement and strengthens family bonds.
Did you know that you can host family parties and events at Gecko? It’s a great way to share your love of climbing and introduce family and friends to all the benefits of our sport.
Climbing Technique Tips for Young Climbers:
Use Your Feet: Encourage young climbers to focus on using their feet to push themselves up the wall rather than relying solely on their arms. Proper footwork helps conserve energy and maintain balance.
Keep Your Body Close to the Wall: Teach children to keep their bodies close to the wall as they climb. This helps distribute their weight more evenly and improves stability, making it easier to reach for holds and maintain control.
Now, let's hear from some experts in child development and family dynamics about the benefits of rock climbing as a family:
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP):
According to the AAP, physical activities like rock climbing are essential for children's healthy development. Rock climbing promotes physical fitness, coordination, and confidence while providing opportunities for social interaction and skill-building.
Psychology Today:
Psychology Today emphasizes the psychological benefits of outdoor activities for families. Engaging in activities like rock climbing promotes bonding, communication, and emotional well-being, leading to stronger family relationships and overall happiness.
Rock and Ice Magazine:
Rock and Ice Magazine highlights the unique challenges and rewards of rock climbing as a family. Climbing together fosters a sense of adventure, exploration, and shared accomplishment, creating lasting memories and strengthening familial bonds.
So there you have it, families! Rock climbing is not just a thrilling adventure; it's also a fantastic way to promote physical fitness, boost confidence, and strengthen family bonds. So grab your gear, hit the gym or the crag, and embark on an unforgettable climbing journey together. Your family's next adventure awaits! 🧗♂️👨👩👧👦
Member Spotlight: Aaron and Hazel
Meet Aaron and Hazel, a father-daughter duo that started their rock climbing journey at Gecko Climbing Gym when we opened three years ago in Phoenix, AZ.
We love our Gecko family - and today we’d like to introduce you to two familiar faces you have likely seen hanging around together at Gecko. Meet Aaron and his daughter Hazel! They’ve been part of the community at Gecko Climbing Gym since we first opened our doors, and they’re part of what makes Gecko so special. They started climbing together when we opened three years ago, and it’s been so cool to see them get stronger as climbers together.
We interviewed these two to learn a little more about them and why they climb. Next time you see them at the gym, make sure to say hi!
What is a personal climbing (or related) goal of yours?
Aaron: Be able to send most Gecko 5.10 lead routes by the end of 2024.
Hazel: One climbing goal of mine is to not outgrow my 3 pairs of climbing shoes, or else my dad won't let me climb any more.
Why do you climb?
Aaron: I climb to have a break from the daily grind, compliment mountain biking as physical exercise, and to spend time with Hazel (and more of my family when they come). It's good for my soul to get away from life's stresses and to be present in the moment with a problem to solve around people trying to do something similar.
Hazel: Climbing is really the first sport I've done. I did dance for 3 years and one season of gymnastics, but clearly those didn't stick. It had been a while since I'd done any sport and one day I went up to my dad and told him I wanted to try rock climbing. This was before Gecko had opened. He looked into it and saw that there was a climbing gym opening in a few months. I got so excited and couldn't wait so one Sunday my dad, my older brother, and I went to check the place out and see if we could help out to somehow speed up the process so it would open sooner. When we arrived all the walls were already constructed and bare, not a hold in sight. We asked the owner, Chris, if we could sweep the floors or do anything to help out and he tasked us with painting the kid wall. And that's how we spent our Sunday afternoon and the gym opened a couple of months later. All my family started out climbing, my mom and dad as well as my 3 siblings and I. After not even one month my dad broke his ankle bouldering and therefore couldn't climb while he healed. As the months passed slowly our climbing family dwindled to just me and then when my dad got better he continued climbing and we've been doing it ever since. Those few months did cost him some time he could have used to outclimb me but unfortunately, he hasn't been able to surpass my flexibility and just general more natural coordination. It does pain me to say that now and then he sends a route before me though clearly, it's because of his height. Just kidding, you're getting better Dad. I climb because it's all about my skill level and pushing myself, I'm not letting anyone down if I lose. You can always progress in climbing, there's never an endpoint, and there are so many places in the world you can access once you learn to climb.
Who/what inspires you?
Aaron: The outdoors, and especially mountains, give me a sense of awe, stillness, and adventure. I love how beauty comes from irregular shapes in nature and time can sometimes stand still or rush by depending on the situation. My greatest memories come from being outdoors with people I've come to care about.
Hazel: My dad. He pushes me because I always have to be better. He stole my tactic though. When he can't get a route, I always tell him either "one more time" or "I'm not letting you down til you get that move." There is a 5.10 in the cave that was really frustrating me because of one move. He had already passed me and was a few clips ahead of me in his progress and I was really disappointed in myself. I tried for weeks to get that one move to no avail. I tried all the beta people suggested but it didn't get me past the move. One day he stole my line and told me I had to get the next hold or I would be stuck up there, so I did. And I got it with static beta that no one else had done, even though it was a bit sloppy I got it. Love you Dad, and thanks for always pushing me.
How do you like to spend your time when you're not climbing?
Aaron: Mountain biking, making pizza, playing with family, and tinkering in the garage.
Hazel: I like reading, watching movies and shows, and absolutely whooping my brother's butts in both Mario Kart and Food Mess. I also enjoy art of any form and shopping online for endless outfits.
What advice would you give to a brand new climber, entering the gym or crag for the very first time?
Aaron: Talk to people and know just about everyone is there to help each other regardless of their level.
Hazel: Even if it feels hard or scary, keep at it and give it more tries. Ask for help when you need it, everyone is very kind and eager to share, I've yet to meet someone at Gecko who isn't.
What is your favorite Arizona destination (any kind), and why do you love it?
Aaron: I don't have just one. Just about anywhere that's remote and awe-inspiring. I've seen a lot of places on climbing, hiking, and biking adventures, but there are never-ending places to explore in Arizona. Some of my favorite places right now are the north rim of the Grand Canyon for its grandeur and remoteness, West Clear Creek for its unsuspecting beauty, Black Canyon Trail because I've combined mountain biking and rock climbing there, and the hills of Sonoran Preserve for their familiarity and closeness.
Hazel: It's so hard to pick just one, Arizona has such a variety of outdoor adventures, but I'll say Atlantis. I recently went for the first time and loved it.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with the Gecko community?
Aaron: Keep climbing!
Hazel: Thanks for being so inclusive and cheering us on!
Embarking on an Adventure: Exploring Queen Creek Canyon's Top Sport Climbing Routes
Queen Creek Canyon, AZ, contains a range of sport crags and routes ranging from moderate to hard. The crags are located in a picturesque setting outside of Superior, AZ.
Are you ready to embark on a journey to one of the most exhilarating rock climbing destinations in the Southwest? Welcome to Queen Creek Canyon, Arizona, where the rugged beauty of the desert landscape meets the adrenaline-pumping challenge of world-class sport climbing routes. Nestled amidst the awe-inspiring Superstition Mountains, Queen Creek Canyon boasts a plethora of climbing crags that will leave you in awe and craving for more!
First things first, let's talk about the sheer magnificence of this place. Picture yourself surrounded by towering rock formations, their fiery hues illuminated by the warm Arizona sun. As you ascend the jagged cliffs, you're treated to panoramic views of the vast desert landscape stretching out before you. It's a breathtaking sight that will make you feel truly alive. It’s hard to believe this rock climbing spot isn’t far outside of Phoenix!
New to outdoor climbing? Have you considered upskilling and taking our Lead Climbing class? This is one class offered through Gecko’s Climbing Academy that will help you transition from gym climber to outdoor climber!
Now, let's delve into what makes Queen Creek Canyon a sport climbing paradise. With crags like The Pond, Atlantis, Lower Devil's Canyon, and Apache Leap, climbers of all skill levels will find routes to challenge and inspire them. Whether you're a beginner honing your skills or a seasoned climber seeking the ultimate thrill, Queen Creek Canyon has something for everyone.
The Pond: This picturesque climbing area features a variety of routes ranging from easy to challenging. Here are three of the most popular sport climbing routes at The Pond:
Pocket Puzzle (5.10a): A steep route with fun, sustained climbing on decent-sized holds.
Pocket Warmer (5.6): A great route for new climbers or a warm-up for more seasoned climbers, with great holds and clipping positions.
The Big Weld Show (5.11a): Varied route with dynamic moves, thin edges, and big juggy holds.
Atlantis: Dive into the depths of adventure at Atlantis, where you'll find an array of steep, technical climbs that will test your strength and skill. Here are three of the most popular sport climbing routes at Atlantis:
The Trident (5.9): A three-pitch route with an easier first pitch, leading to a more challenging start at the last pitch.
Neptune (5.10a): Good holds, varied climbing - a classic!
Ali Cat (5.7): A fairly steep route full of jugs and good feet the whole way.
Lower Devil's Canyon: For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Lower Devil's Canyon offers steep, exposed routes that will push you to your limits. Here are three of the most popular sport climbing routes at Lower Devil's Canyon:
Eyes of the World (5.11a): Sustained, picturesque climbing on a 115’ route.
The Totem Pole (5.10c/d): Climb this thin tower with an amazing view!
Accelerated Climbology (5.9): Okay so this isn’t a sport route, but it’s a fun trad route with both face and crack climbing and is worth checking out if you are a trad climber.
Apache Leap: Named after the legendary Apache warrior who leaped from its cliffs to escape capture, this iconic climbing area offers a mix of traditional and sport routes. While known more for its traditional climbs, here are three cool sport routes at Apache Leap:
Geronimo (5.7): A two-pitch sport route on an arete with amazing views.
Knotty Tower (5.9+): A beautiful tower climb.
Ussen (5.10b/c): A six-pitch, 600 ft route including arete, face, and roof moves!
Now, let's talk about what else Queen Creek Canyon has to offer besides epic climbing. After a day of conquering the cliffs, why not explore the charming town of Superior? Located just a stone's throw away from the canyon, Superior is home to a variety of local businesses that cater to climbers.
DeMarco's Pizzeria: Refuel after a long day of climbing with a mouthwatering pizza from DeMarco's. With its cozy atmosphere and delicious pies, it's the perfect spot to unwind and share stories of your adventures on the rocks.
Superior Farmer’s Market: If you’re in the area on a Saturday, consider strolling through the farmer’s market that takes place year-round in the heart of town. Stock up on crag snacks and peruse the local wares.
Porter's Saloon and Grill: End your day on a high note with a hearty meal at Porter's. Whether you're craving a juicy burger or a refreshing drink, this local favorite has got you covered.
Do you need a rope, quickdraws, or other gear to take your love of climbing outside? Remember that Gecko carries a selection of outdoor climbing gear, and members get 10% off retail purchases. We’re not only a gym - we’re one of the climbing stores serving Phoenix!
So there you have it, folks! Queen Creek Canyon is not just a climbing destination; it's an experience you'll never forget. From the stunning beauty of its rock formations to the exhilarating challenge of its routes, this desert oasis has something for everyone. So pack your gear, gather your friends, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! 🧗♂️🌵
And don't forget to check out these local businesses in Superior for some pre- or post-climbing fun!
Queen Creek Canyon Climbing Areas:
Source: Mountain Project - Queen Creek Canyon
Information about the Town of Superior, Arizona:
Source: Town of Superior, Arizona - Official Website
Local Businesses in Superior, Arizona:
Source:
DeMarco's Pizzeria - Facebook Page
Special Family Event: Monster Hour by Warner Bros. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
It all begins with an idea.
We have SOLD OUT for today’s Monster Hour from 2-3pm, offering FREE Day Passes & Rentals for the first 40 Youth ages 17 and under who RSVP'd!! All others interested can enter at a discounted rate!
Join us and get ready to ROAR at the MONSTER HOUR family event at Gecko Climbing Gym THIS Saturday at 2pm, as we get ready for the release of Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire! With rock-solid branded items, free movie codes, and non-stop fun, this event is set to be MONSTROUSLY epic!
And here's the best part - during MONSTER HOUR guests 17 years of age and under climb for FREE! Trust me, you won't want to miss this larger-than-life celebration, but spots are LIMITED, so click the link below to RSVP to reserve your spot! Mark your calendars and join us this Saturday and unleash your inner monster! #GodzillaxKong @GodzillaXKong 🔥🦖🔥
PLEASE RSVP! The first 40 youth will be paid for by Warner Bros.
From Beginner to Intermediate – Training Drills to Elevate Your Skills
Here are some ideas for training that will help you move from a beginner rock climber to an intermediate climber.
Hey there fellow climbers! So, you've conquered those beginner routes, and now you're itching to take your climbing to the next level, huh? Well, you're in luck because I've got some awesome training drills to help you bridge that gap from beginner to intermediate like a pro!
Before we dive in, remember to always warm up properly before starting any climbing session. Warming up not only helps prevent injuries but also primes your body for the challenges ahead. So, let's get started!
Endurance Training: The Power of the Pyramid
Building endurance is crucial for intermediate climbers. One great way to improve endurance is through pyramid training. Start with easy routes and gradually increase the difficulty level. For example, climb one easy route, then climb two slightly harder routes, followed by three even more challenging routes, and so on, until you reach your peak difficulty. Then, work your way back down the pyramid. This drill not only improves endurance but also helps you adapt to different climbing styles and holds. At Gecko Climbing Gym, this could mean starting on Green Geckos, then moving to Yellow, then Red - or start on Yellow Geckso and move up from there and then back down again.
Source: REI - Rock Climbing Techniques
Strength Training: Hang Tight!
To tackle those tougher routes, you'll need to strengthen your grip and upper body. Hangboard training is an excellent way to target these areas. We have several hangboards in our functional training area, and we also offer custom Gecko Boards if you want one to install at home! Start with simple hangs and gradually incorporate variations like one-arm hangs and offset grips. Remember, quality over quantity! Focus on proper form and gradually increase the intensity as you progress.
Source: Climbing Magazine - How to Hangboard
Technique Refinement: Silent Feet, Swift Climbs
As you advance, refining your climbing technique becomes increasingly important. Silent feet technique focuses on climbing quietly and efficiently, minimizing wasted energy. Practice placing your feet precisely and using your legs to push yourself up rather than relying solely on your arms. Pay attention to your body positioning and balance. The quieter your feet, the smoother your climb! And a quick tip from the training our youth climbing team members do - if you attach a bell (think jingle bells) to your climbing shoe, you can really challenge yourself to keep quiet!
Mental Toughness: Conquer Your Fears
Intermediate climbing often introduces more exposure and mentally challenging situations. Overcoming fear is key to progressing. Practice controlled falls to build confidence in your gear and belayer. Visualize successful climbs and focus on your breathing to stay calm under pressure. Remember, it's okay to take breaks and step back if you're feeling overwhelmed. Mental strength is just as important as physical strength in climbing!
Source: Climbing Psychology - How to Overcome Fear in Climbing
Rest and Recovery: Listen to Your Body
Lastly, don't forget the importance of rest and recovery. Climbing puts a lot of strain on your muscles and tendons, so make sure to give your body time to heal between sessions. Incorporate stretching, foam rolling, and gentle exercises to aid recovery. And remember, it's okay to take rest days! Your body will thank you for it.
If you’re looking for a customized approach to improving your climbing skills, consider working with one of our personal coaches at Gecko, your friendly Phoenix rock climbing gym. Share your goals with us, and we’ll put together a training plan to help you get there.
So there you have it, folks! With these training ideas and a dash of determination, you'll be soaring up those intermediate routes in no time. Keep pushing yourself, stay safe, and most importantly, have fun! Happy climbing! 🧗♂️🏔️