Judith E.:
I began climbing in 2011, when I was 66 years old. My son worked at Climb Iowa, and we planned a trip to climb at Red Rocks near Vegas. He needed a belayer, so he trained me to do that at the gym, along with some beginning climbing techniques.
I loved the feeling of embarking on a climb, looking up rather than down, and all the thought that goes into completing a route. We went on a trip and I got to try some outdoor climbing; quite a different experience and very challenging for me. Watching others try out the routes and discuss possible approaches was fascinating.
When I got home, I signed up for Aaron’s movement class to learn more and gain confidence. It was the best thing I could have done, and I learned so much. Now I climb once a week, and always find a new problem to overcome or to try again next time. Climbing is the best weight-bearing exercise for me - it never gets repetitive or boring. Therefore I look forward to doing it.
I believe it has helped in stopping the progression of my osteoporosis, and I know it has helped me build strength. Climbing was quite a foreign thing for me to do, but Climb Iowa is a friendly and encouraging environment, and that helps me feel comfortable trying new things there.
I am now 71, and am very happy to have found this wonderful activity. It’s never too late to begin something new!