Climbing: The Best Niche Fitness You Haven’t Tried Yet

Are you someone who likes to be active, but isn’t interested in the typical go-to-the-gym routine? You’re more of a lifestyle fitness enthusiast. Maybe you love CrossFit, barre, or other kinds of niche fitness because you crave something different and love to make your workouts fun. If that resonates with you, climbing offers all of that– plus unique advantages you won’t find anywhere else! Climbing combines strength, endurance, and problem-solving, with a strong community for social support. Plus, it can be practiced outdoors, allowing you to connect with nature. 

Climbing vs. CrossFit

There are similarities between the fun community of a climbing gym and the community vibe of CrossFit. They are also both great for building physical strength. However, climbing is a lower-impact and more adaptable activity.

• Helps you build strength without high-impact or repetitive strain.

• Contains more variety– no two climbs are the same, so less risk of burnout.

• Community vibe without the competitive intensity. However, if you crave competition, there are comps and leagues available!

Climbing vs. Pilates & Barre

Pilates and Barre are great ways to develop control, flexibility, and core strength, with a mindfulness component that people love. Climbing provides similar benefits but with an added adventure factor.

• Improves balance, flexibility, and body awareness through dynamic movement.

• Builds strength, without repetitive routines.

• Adds an extra element of problem-solving and mental challenge.

Climbing vs. Cycling / Spin Studios

Cycling enhances cardiovascular endurance, is a lot of fun, and can foster a great community. However, it can feel repetitive (especially indoors during winter) and targets limited muscle groups. Climbing brings cardio plus creativity, variety, and a full-body workout.

• Delivers cardio + strength (studies show that climbing can equal running in energy output!).

• Engages arms, core, grip, and legs.

• Each climbing route presents a new “adventure,” even indoors– gym routes are continually updated, and there are always new ways to challenge yourself.

Your Next Fitness Move

If you’ve been searching for something that feels less like a workout and more like a lifestyle shift, climbing may be your missing piece. While other fitness programs can improve your strength, climbing offers a well-rounded workout plus an active community and plenty of variety. One climb can be slow and mindful, another fast and adrenaline-filled—you choose. Plus, our gym boasts a fitness area and yoga/pilates room, so if you’re craving a weight workout or yoga session to supplement your climbing, we’ve got you covered there too.

Ready to find out if climbing is the community-driven, fun, and engaging workout you’ve been looking for? Plan your first visit today!

FAQ: Climbing vs. Other Fitness Options

• Q: Is climbing actually good cardio?
  A: Yes. An hour of bouldering can burn as much energy as running a solid mile pace—but it’s way more fun than a treadmill. And unlike most cardio workouts, you’re building full-body strength at the same time.

• Q: Do I need to be super strong before I can start climbing?
  A: Nope. Climbing is more about technique and problem-solving than raw strength. Most beginners are surprised by how quickly they improve. You’ll build strength naturally just by showing up and having fun on the wall. And our routes start at beginner level.

• Q: How does climbing compare to CrossFit or CycleBar?
  A: The vibe is similar—you’ll find a supportive, hype-filled community—but climbing adds a creative twist. Every climb is different, so it never feels repetitive. Want to push hard and chase that adrenaline? Go for it. Want a slower, more mindful session? Totally possible. You’re in charge.

• Q: I’ve never climbed before. Will I feel out of place?
  A: Not at all. Our routes are set for all levels, our floors are padded, and our staff is ready to help you. Everyone here remembers what it felt like to be a beginner, so you’ll fit right in.

• Q: Can families or non-athletes enjoy climbing?
  A: 100%. We’ve got parents climbing with kids, teens helping cheer on their friends, and plenty of folks who never thought they’d like a “fitness thing” until they tried climbing.

• Q: What makes climbing stand out from other workouts?
  A: Climbing keeps your body moving and your brain engaged. Instead of doing the same motions over and over, every route is a fresh puzzle. One climb might feel like a thoughtful game of chess, while the next feels like a burst of adrenaline. Either way, you won’t get bored.