What do I need to do to climb at Vertical Endeavors?
All you need to do is show up. We are very well set up for first-time climbers. With 22 Auto Belays (a device that takes up slack in the rope as you climb and slowly lets you down when you let go), anyone can be climbing after a short orientation. Any time we are open we are ready to welcome new climbers.
As of July 19, 2010
Vertical Endeavors Check-In Policies - Updated
All climbers entering Life Time Fitness for access to Vertical Endeavors must follow these check-in guidelines.
Climbers must STOP at the Life Time front check-in area before proceeding to Vertical Endeavors.
Adults:
Climbers (Adults 18+) will fill out updated (7/19/10) Vertical Endeavors/Life Time release waiver and show valid photo ID
Climbers will take wavier with them to Vertical Endeavors. VE staff will keep updated waiver and make photocopy for climber to show Life Time for future visits.
Climbers will wait for LTF staff to address proper protocol in LTF space
- Gear/packs to be stored only in VE areas. LTF lockers are not to be used
- Locker room access is limited to changing clothes and washrooms only (no showers)
- Climbers are welcome to use the café, but access to other areas of the club (weight room, pool, exercise areas are prohibited)
Minors 12-17 years of age:
With updated (7/19/10)Vertical Endeavors/Life Time release waiver and photo ID, same protocol as adults
With updated waiver and NO photo ID - will be sent around to West Side VE entrance
Without updated waiver - will be sent around to West Side VE entrance and limited to VE space only (no access to LTF building/washrooms, café, etc)
Minors under 12 years old:
Must have parent with them to fill out updated Vertical Endeavors/Life Time release waiver or bring copy of updated VE wavier filled out by parent
Must have guardian 18+ to chaperone at all times while in LTF or VE
Climbers under 12 are not permitted into LTF or VE without adult guardian present for duration of visit (note: VE programming, including camps, teams, parties not subject to parent supervision while in program)
If you experience any difficulties in accessing Vertical Endeavors, please contact us or come around to the West Side Entrance and we will be happy to assist you in your visit.
What should I bring?
You should wear loose comfortable athletic clothing. Climbing rental equipment is available for $10 (includes all equipment – climbing shoes, harness, chalk, etc.) If you bring anyone under 18 they absolutely must have the Lifetime Fitness waiver and Vertical Endeavors waiver filled out by their parent or court appointed legal guardian. If you have long hair bring something to tie it back.
Who can climb?
Anyone. One of the great things about climbing is that anyone can excel. Unlike many sports in which only specific body types can excel (like height in basketball) anyone can climb. Also, because of the slow, controlled movements involved in climbing, many climbers can continue into their 60’s and 70’s.
Why climb?
Climbing is a full body workout. The common conception that climbing is all about upper body strength is completely false. Elegance of balance, movement and economy of strength are much more important. More than anything, climbing is fun. It combines the physicality of sport with the analysis of logic games and the mental control of tightrope.
