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Rock climbing is a great way to stay in shape and have fun indoors around the Main Line and western suburbs.
As the weather gets chilly, it can be hard to muster up the energy to get outside and exercise amid cold rain and windy days. The Main Line area has so many gorgeous natural landscapes, but if the seasons prevent you from seeing them, why not move your workout indoors? Rock climbing gyms are a great way to stay in shape and avoid the sweat-filled and sometimes hyper-masculine atmosphere of public gyms. These rec centers make a game out of your workout, and it’s easy to track your progress as you gain strength and flexibility.
Just how far can you make it up that wall?
Here are some of our favorite rock gyms around the Main Line and western suburbs:
Philadelphia Rock Gym
E-520 122 Mill Rd., Oaks; 57 Lancaster Ave., Malvern
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Since opening its first location in Oaks in 1994, Philadelphia Rock Gym has expanded to five locations across the Philadelphia area, with two facilities serving the Main Line. Both gyms are over 10,000 square feet in area and boast fitness, top rope and boulder areas. A monthly membership at either gym is $69.95, but special women’s climb nights take place every Tuesday from 7-9 p.m., during which first-timers can try for free.
The Gravity Vault
175 King of Prussia Rd., Radnor
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With over a dozen locations across the continental U.S. from California to New York, The Gravity Vault has become a top spot for indoor recreation in the last several years. Radnor’s Gravity Vault has over 14,000 square feet of climbing walls that feature arêtes, arches, key holes, chimneys, cracks, overhangs and more.
Reach Climbing and Fitness
401 E 4th St., Bridgeport
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Reach Climbing and Fitness is a great place for beginner climbers to get going. The initial private beginner session are only $60 an hour for two climbers. For more advanced climbers, Reach also has a bouldering league and $24 day passes. Being one of the largest rock gyms in the Philadelphia area at 22,000 square feet, this destination offers plenty of room for climbers of all levels.
Downingtown Rock Gym
462 Acorn Ln., Downingtown
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This smaller, locally owned rock gym has a stronger community feel to it. Only 5,000 square feet, it still features auto-belays, top rope, bouldering and lead climbing, but with frequent changes to walls to keep things refreshing. However, something unique to Downingtown’s gym are the outdoor excursions are offered by the staff, with private guiding to get you going in outdoor spaces, too. For more gyms like this one, check out Doylestown Rock Gym, also owned and operated by the same team.
Related: Where to Go Hiking Around the Main Line and Western Suburbs
