NOTICE: Not all classes are offered each session. Please check the schedules and fee listing to ensure that your class of interest is currently being offered. If you do not see your class of interest as an option, be assured it will be available at a later date.

Climbing Classes - Meyer Center Only

(Ages 2 - 5)

At least one parent is required to participate in every class. This class allows young children to experience the Rock Wall with their parents. You will learn techniques of boldering, safety, play games and climb with harnesses when instructors deam the tots are ready.

(Ages 2 - 5)

Born to climb! Tots will be working with our instructors. This is a great way for tots to exercise and play at the same time. Instructors will teach rock climbing basics while building a foundation of skills. There is also plenty of free time to explore the rock wall.

(Ages 8 - 15)
Rock Wall conditioning for kids. Indoor climbing will present challenges and rewards that will increase strength and endurance to help with other sports, as well as healthy lifestyles and overall fitness. Fitness equipment will be used as a part of the class.

(Ages 5-15)

Parents will be required to learn to belay their own child/children and will receive a "Y Rock Wall Certification Card" upon passing a skills test. Instructors will also assist with belaying all participants. The class will cover the basics of belaying, indoor rock climbing, bouldering technique, terminology, equipment use and safety. 

Note: Parents must accompany and belay for their child/children each and every class.

(Ages 5-15)

This class serves as an introduction to the climbing tower, learning to put on harnesses, basic climbing techniques, and lots of free time to explore the tower. Parents are not required to accompany their child, student to staff ratio is 5:1.

Tot Climb (Ages 2-5)

Born to climb! This is an open session for children ages 2 to 5 years of age. It is an opportunity to introduce younger children to techniques of bouldering and use of their ropes and harness skills. Arrangements can be made to return tots to the childcare room.

This climb session is for those who are serious about climbing and want to increase their mental and physical skill level. SIUe students are welcome!

(Ages 16 - Adult)

Join us every Friday from 5 - 5:50pm to become a certified belayer. $15/person

The Rock Wall is a challenging and unique head-to-toe workout. This class will teach you climbing, bouldering, and belaying. Upon passing a skills test you will receive a "Y Belay Certification Card" that will enable you to belay friends and family during open climb times.

Climbing is a unique way of exercise that will engage both the mind and body. Learn techniques of climbing at your own pace with our instructors.The Rock Wall is a challenging and unique head-to-toe workout. This class will teach you climbing, bouldering, and belaying. Upon passing a skills test you will receive a "Y Belay Certification Card" that will enable you to belay friends and family during open climb times

Private lessons are available at other times other than open climbing hours. Please contact the climbing coordinator for more information.

Birthday Parties/Group Rentals: The YMCA Climbing Tower is available privately for birthday parties and group rental. There are tables and chairs within the climbing area and concessions are available. Please contact the service desk at the Esic or Meyer Center for more information.