News Summary
Knoxville is preparing for the arrival of Climbing Roots Bouldering Gym, a new facility aimed at both climbing enthusiasts and beginners. Located in a renovated church gymnasium, the 26,000-square-foot space will offer a variety of climbing walls, a Ninja Warrior course, and advanced training tools to foster community engagement. With a focus on inclusivity, the gym will provide discounted passes to encourage participation in climbing activities and help elevate Knoxville’s recreational offerings for all ages.
Knoxville is welcoming a major transformation in its fitness and recreation offerings with the upcoming opening of the Climbing Roots Bouldering Gym. This innovative facility, designed to cater to both climbing enthusiasts and newcomers alike, is being developed in a spacious 26,000-square-foot area that was formerly the gymnasium of Sevier Heights Baptist Church, located at 3710 Sevier Heights Rd. The gym is expected to open its doors in 2023, although a specific date has yet to be announced.
Bouldering, the unique form of climbing that the gym will specialize in, involves ascending shorter walls without the use of ropes. To ensure safety during falls, thick mats will be placed at the base of the climbing areas. Climbing Roots will feature a variety of training walls tailored to climbers of all skill levels, including dedicated zones for children to safely explore their interest in the sport.
Facility Highlights
The gym is designed with a comprehensive range of features aimed at enhancing the climbing experience and promoting community engagement. Alongside its climbing walls, Climbing Roots will house a Ninja Warrior course designed by a former contestant, a yoga studio, workout equipment, and party rooms for various events. This diverse offering aims to attract a wide demographic, fostering an inclusive environment for individuals and families.
Advanced Training Tools
For more serious climbers, Climbing Roots will incorporate high-tech training boards, including a Kilter board, a Moon board, and a Tension2 board. These advanced tools will allow climbers to create and rate routes from around the globe, offering an exciting and varied training experience.
Outdoor Simulation
Unique to Climbing Roots will be features that simulate outdoor bouldering experiences, including “top-out boulders” that serve as both climbing challenges and hangout spaces for climbers to relax and socialize.
Community Vision
Owners Lindsay and Nathan Runne, who are avid climbing enthusiasts with over a decade of experience in the sport, have a vision that extends beyond just a climbing gym. Since moving to Knoxville in 2018, they have pursued their dream of opening Climbing Roots, motivated by the desire to manage a climbing gym in their preferred location near Baker Creek Preserve. They have received extensive support from local groups such as the Steeple People and view their landlords as partners who recognize the potential community benefits of the facility.
Inclusivity and Accessibility
The Runnes are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, envisioning the gym as a “third space” for community gathering. They are also offering a discounted 10-punch pass for climbing activities at a cost of $165, which can later be converted into a full membership. This initiative aims to make the climbing experience more accessible to everyone, encouraging participation in the sport.
Ongoing Developments
As the gym progresses towards its opening date, plans for exterior updates are underway to enhance customer experience, complementing the ongoing interior construction. Climbing Roots aims to elevate Knoxville’s local climbing landscape by serving a diverse population that includes children and adults who share a passion for this exciting sport.
With its comprehensive facilities and unwavering commitment to community building, Climbing Roots Bouldering Gym is set to become a key player in Knoxville’s recreational scene, promoting health, wellness, and a love of climbing among residents of all ages.
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Additional Resources
- Inside of Knoxville: Climbing Roots
- Inside of Knoxville: Babalu Closure
- Knox News: OnSight Rock Gym
- Climbing.com: Q&A with Jimmy Webb
- Knox News: Bouldering Popularity
- Wikipedia: Bouldering
- Google Search: Climbing Gyms Knoxville
- Google Scholar: Climbing Community Development
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Climbing
- Google News: Knoxville Climbing
