|
Off the Wall...More women getting a lift
from climbing workout
by
Amanda Hurt, staff writer
Rock climbing is considered one of
the most thrilling sports, and it’s on the rise.
It has evolved from what once was only an outdoor pastime to an indoor
activity that is offered in most gyms and recreational centers.
For all women who would like to learn how to rock climb or for those who
would like to improve their climbing skills, there is a climbing class for
women being offered at the Texas Tech Rec Center.
The
OPC Women Climbers meet every Monday at 8 p.m. on the third floor-climbing
wall in the Rec Center. The classes are every semester and last all
semester, with 12 climbing dates. Each Monday, the new class covers new
climbing skills. The class usually lasts from 8 p.m-10 p.m.
There
is a $5 fee to receive certification for the climbing wall. Once the climber
receives certification, it is good for the whole year.
“This
is such a good program, because it is geared for women and taught by women,”
said David Prout, originator of the OPC Women Climbers.
The
class consists mostly of college-age women, but there are also high school
and middle-age women participating.
“Climbing gives the women a work out, but also teaches them to keep their
brain engaged at the same time,” said climbing instructor Erin Yeager.
The
OPC Women Climbers first began in January of last year. Some of the classes
that will be covered in the future are as follows: Advanced Technique, Slab
Practice, Climbing Steep, Lead Fundamentals and Lead Climbing practice.
There
is also an outdoor climbing trip planned for the weekend of October 29-31.
The trip is a beginner course, so climbers do not have to be specialized
climbers to attend this trip.
“Everyone participating in the class is really excited, said climber
Catherine Lee. “Very few women climbed before this class, because the wall
intimated them. This class gives women a chance to cast aside their fears
and become good climbers.”
|