You’ve seen the Instagram posts, you’ve watched Free Solo, and now you’re ready to try indoor climbing for the first time. You’re in the right place! We’re so excited to help you on this journey.
Climbing will bring you a sense of community and personal growth, not to mention a full-body workout—but it can feel overwhelming at first. That’s why we built a list of the best Movement gyms for complete beginners. Read on for our recommendations for where to try climbing for the first time, complete with post-climb plans with your new crew!
Low-friction first visit: Boulderers can show up and start climbing after filling out a participation agreement and watching a short orientation video.
Variety of offerings: We picked full-service gyms with bouldering and rope climbing options and a full calendar of yoga and fitness classes.
Beginner-friendly programming: All Movement gyms offer beginner classes like Introduction to Bouldering and Introduction to Rope Climbing, and Trial Membership.
Gear support: Everything you need to get started, like rental shoes and harnesses, are included in trial offerings and beginner classes.
Size and offerings: Movement Englewood offers 42,000 sq. feet of rope climbing and bouldering, a yoga studio, and a full-service fitness area.
Address: 1050 W Hampden Ave Suite 100 Englewood, CO 80110
What makes it unique: Specialized fitness classes like Trail Fit and Alpine Fit will prepare you for long days in the Rockies Mountains.
Post-climb plans: After your morning session at Movement Englewood, grab a coffee at Mango Tree Coffee. Or if it’s later in the day, bring your belay partners to Lady Justice Brewing Company for a few brews.
Size and offerings: Movement Columbia offers 27,000 sq. feet of rope climbing and bouldering, a yoga studio, and a full-service fitness area.
Address: 7125 Columbia Gateway Dr #110 Columbia, MD 21046
What makes it unique: We’re home to the largest bouldering area in the state of Maryland
Post-climb plans: Climbing works up an appetite—head to Pub Dog for pizza and craft beer after your climbing session.
Size and offerings: Movement Design District offers 45,000 sq. feet of rope climbing and bouldering, yoga studio, full-service fitness center, and a sauna.
Address: 141 Glass St, Dallas, TX 75207
What makes it unique: Test your balance on our outdoor slackline overlooking the Dallas skyline!
Post-climb plans: Grab your crew and check out Bishop Cidercade for arcade games and hard ciders on tap.
Size and offerings: Movement Lincoln Park offers 43,000 sq. feet of rope climbing and bouldering, a yoga studio, full-service fitness center, and sauna.
Address: 1460 N Dayton St Chicago, IL 60642
What makes it unique: Compliment your climbing with Les Mills fitness classes taught by our expert instructors.
Post-climb plans: Refuel with breakfast and a coffee from Kapéj Coffee Roasters, then take a stroll through the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
Size and offerings: Movement Gowanus offers 36,000 sq. feet of rope climbing and bouldering, a yoga studio, full-service fitness center, and a sauna.
Address: 242 Butler St Brooklyn, NY 11217
What makes it unique: Check out the views of the NYC skyline after your climbing session on our rooftop terrace.
Post-climb plans: Pack a picnic to enjoy in nearby Carroll Park or visit Threes Brewing.
Size and offerings: Movement Sunnyvale offers 28,000 sq. feet of rope climbing and bouldering, a yoga studio, full-service fitness area, and a sauna.
Address: 815 Stewart Dr Sunnyvale, CA 94085
What makes it unique: The bouldering area has large floor-to-ceiling windows that open to an outdoor patio on those gorgeous California days.
Post-climb plans: Head to the Sunnyvale Farmers Market after your Saturday morning climbing session for local food, drink and craft vendors.
No matter where you choose to begin your climbing journey, we're here to support you with beginner-friendly classes, expert instructors, and a one-of-a-kind community. Find your nearest Movement gym.