The Climbing Centre at MRU Recreation is a highlight to longtime climbers, those who aim to live more on the ledge as a physical activity, and first-time explorers who want to discover a new sport with a welcoming energy on campus. 
 
Nina Frankish-Beaven, an Ecotourism and Outdoor Leadership student, has been an active indoor and outdoor climber for more than 10 years. She works in a facility monitor role at the climbing wall, welcoming familiar and new faces to the space every week.
 
"I want to be able to share climbing with other people and be a nice, friendly face to get people to start climbing," Frankish-Beaven said. 
 
For Rowan Reef, also a team member at the Climbing Centre, it's all about community building through a shared activity. 
 
"It's known to be one of the most inclusive spaces on campus," Reef said. "It's a fun place to hang out, meet new friends, climb, and improve." 
 
How high will you go?
 
The short answer: 40 feet. You can even invite up to 31 friends and classmates to enjoy 5,000 square feet of play space — perfect if you all want to experience it together.
 
Some additional features include four top rope auto-belay machines, a separate space for bouldering, and a designated top rope and lead climbing walls for all levels of experience. 
 
"Climbing is a very beneficial sport for a multitude of reasons," Reef said. "It's a surprisingly full body workout."
 
The physical development areas for climbing are primarily your arms, back, core, and legs. Adding a climb into your workout routine can strengthen endurance and flexibility, while improving cardiovascular fitness, grip strength, and coordination. 
 
There are also mental health benefits that can come from this activity, including sharpening focus and concentration.
 
"You can challenge yourself as much or as little as you want. Every route is kind of a puzzle," Frankish-Beaven said.
 
Climbing has been linked to reducing cognitive anxiety and used as a therapeutic tool resulting from chemical reactions released through activity that are connected with boosting mood levels such as dopamine and serotonin. 
 
Simple as 1, 2, 3 
 
The process of using the climbing facilities is easy and fast. After signing a waiver, facilitators will learn about your climbing experience, help you put on the proper gear, and teach you how to work equipment like the auto-belays, ensuring a safe and fun experience. Climbing footwear is also available to use during your visit.
 
"I think that students are a little hesitant to come in and try climbing, because it is a little intimidating, and there is a fear factor to it," Reef said. 
 
A membership at MRU Recreation includes free drop-in climbing. There are also completions and events throughout the semester – like the Boulder Bash – open for all experience levels with a fun and competitive atmosphere. 
 
The climbing centre also provides programming for all ages. Adults can start with the Top Rope Climbing and Belaying Lesson and advance to Lead Climbing and Belaying or Adult Climbing Development. For younger climbers looking to gain a better understanding of the sport while building confidence, they can develop and test their skills through MRU's six-week programs – Tykes Rocks for ages four to eight, and Summit Seekers for youth aged nine to 13 years old. 
 
Instructors at the climbing centre are available at affordable rates and are certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) for those who want extra guidance, especially guests who are fearful of heights and worry about safety. 
 
"It's super beginner friendly," Frankish-Beaven said. "The climbing facility is designed for getting people into climbing."
 
Find more information about drop-in hours at the climbing wall through the ePlay activity calendar.