5 Places for Indoor Rock Climbing in Metro Manila
The Great Miley Cyrus also once said, "It's the climb!"
(SPOT.ph) Contrary to Google Image results, you don’t need pandesal abs, Thor-like arms, Spider Man’s flexibility, or Tom Cruise’s intense love for adrenaline to enjoy rock climbing or bouldering. This sport can be adopted by a person of any age and at any fitness level. The best part? You don’t need to go outside—and expose yourselves to the heat of the sun—as there are many indoor rock climbing arenas and bouldering gyms in Metro Manila. These places have structures similar to those outside so people, especially beginners, can safely experience this exciting activity.
Rock climbing and bouldering are both climbing disciplines but have varying requirements and techniques. Rock climbing is a little easier and recommended for beginners because the climber is supported with a rope and harness. The usual climb height is roughly 30 feet from the ground, and the primary goal is to reach the top.
Bouldering is a type of rock climbing that doesn’t need a rope and harness as the climbing height is usually 12 to 15 feet from the ground—at least for indoor bouldering. There’s also the added thrill of climbing a wall that leans in all degrees, except 90.
Both climbing disciplines are great forms of exercise and develop particular skills. It is also a very fun activity to do with friends or maybe a very sporty first date.
If you’re looking to breathe new life into your fitness routine or you’re finding ways to spice up your weekends, then, indoor rock climbing or bouldering is the perfect beginner-friendly and pretty much low-commitment activity to try.
Here are places for indoor rock climbing in Metro Manila:
Climb Central Manila
The Portal, Mayflower Street, Greenfield District, Mandaluyong City
climbcentral.ph
Rates start at P650 for a day pass (exclusive of equipment)
Open Monday to Friday, from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m.; and every Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Climb Central Manila has just about 750 square meters of climbing wall space for both rock climbing and bouldering. It is the biggest, airconditioned climbing space and it includes a kiddie climbing wall, lanes with belay safe and auto-belay, and lead variants. The bouldering wall is just about four meters high and is located on the climbing arena’s second floor. If you notice the different colored handholds on the walls, the colors represent a particular route with a certain level of difficulty. There’s no pressure though, you could "rainbow" (mix and match the color a.k.a. routes) your way to the top! Programs and other classes for kids, adults, and big groups are also available on their website.
There's a one-time registration fee of P200 for first-time climbers at Climb Central Manila. For equipment rental, prices are P150 for climbing shoes, P100 for a climbing harness, P200 for a set of shoes and harnesses, P200 for a belay device, P300 for rope, and P50 for a lock. Monthly passes with unlimited entries are also available: P3,900 for one month, P10,72 for three months, P17,550 for six months, and P27,300 for one year.
The Bouldering Hive
UG/F Circuit Makati, Circuit Lane, Makati City
bhiveph.com
Rates start at P650 for a single-entry pass (exclusive of shoes)
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
The Bouldering Hive was built not only because of the owners’ (Mica and Christoph) love for nature and climbing, but also because of their passion to promote the sport and engage with the local climbing community. Located in the heart of Makati, the bouldering space is so accessible that it is the perfect after-work activity to get a proper sweat and pump up endorphins into your system. The space offers about 400 square meters of climbing walls with a 37.5-degree spray wall, a co-working area with free WiFi, and amenities like shower rooms and changing areas.
The adult pass with rental shoes is at P750. Different membership packages are available at BHive, including the Starter Pack at P1,300, which is inclusive of three single-entry passes and shoe rentals that are valid for three months. You can also get five-day passes for P3000 or 10-day passes for P5,500.
The Edge Climb Gym by The Upper Deck
Ortigas Technopoint One, 1 Doña Julia Vargas Avenue, Pasig City
www.facebook.com/TheUpperDeckPh
Rates start at P450 for a day pass
Open from Tuesday to Friday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and from Saturday to Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Believe us when we say that Upper Deck is every fitness aficionado and sports buff’s dream destination. The area has facilities for a plethora of sports and other recreational activities, including badminton, basketball, volleyball, and—most importantly—rock climbing. The facility has an outdoor climbing wall with a top rope and lead wall variant (strictly for certified climbers only).
The first-timer set is at P600, which includes a climb pass, registration, and shoe and harness. You can also get a trial pass for P250, equipment included. A one-month pass is P3,000 for unlimited climbs.
Power Up Climbing Gym
Multiple branches
www.facebook.com/POWERUPclimbing
Rates start at P500 (Alabang, ROX BGC) and P600 (Centro, Tandang Sora)
Operating hours vary per branch
Power Up Climbing Gym is one of the OG’s, serving rock climbing realness since 1994. They have multiple branches—TS Gym and Centro Gym in the north; and Rox Gym and Alabang Gym in the south. If you’re a beginner and you’re more comfortable learning with a coach or instructor by your side, Power Up has rates and packages that are inclusive of gear rental and instruction.
Maic’s Gym
Pikador Street corner Ditchoy Street, Midtown Subdivision Phase I, San Roque, Marikina City
www.facebook.com/MaicsGym
Rates start at P300/session/hour
Open from Monday to Friday, from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; every Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and every Sunday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Maic’s Gym is the best place to go when you love the gym but you also want to take a little break from your normal exercise routine or cross-train. The space is equipped with different facilities for activities like martial arts, cross-fit, and—yes, you guessed it—rock climbing. While the wall is not as colossal as the dedicated wall-climbing gyms, climbers can still enjoy the experience and maybe experience more activities that Maic’s Gym can offer. Just remember that this gym doesn’t offer shoe rentals, so it’s best to come in rubber shoes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Indoor Rock Climbing
Do I need any prior experience to start rock climbing?
No, most gyms cater to beginners and offer introductory classes and safety briefings.
What should I wear for indoor rock climbing?
Comfortable athletic wear that allows for a full range of motion. Climbing shoes are required and can be rented at most gyms.
Is rock climbing safe?
Yes, when following proper safety protocols and instructions. Gyms are equipped with safety gear and experienced staff to guide you.
Can children participate in rock climbing?
Yes, many gyms offer programs and walls designed for children. However, age restrictions may apply, so it's best to check with the gym.
How often should you climb to see improvement?
Consistency is key. Climbing two to three times a week can lead to noticeable improvements in strength and technique.
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