Rock climbing, a sport enjoyed by many, consists of climbing up, down, and across natural rock formations and indoor climbing facilities. The sport boasts a variety of health benefits, stretching beyond an intense workout, from improving endurance and flexibility to exercising the brain and practicing problem-solving skills. Those at Emerson Junior-Senior High School interested in this dynamic activity can turn to Emerson’s Rock Climbing Club. 

Run by special education teacher Ms. Vetri and mathematics teacher Mr. Lee, the Rock Climbing Club is in its 3rd year of running. They climb at Gravity Vault in Upper Saddle River from 7 to 9 pm on miscellaneous days. 

Students can participate in both indoor and outdoor climbing and learn different climbing strategies such as bouldering (climbing without ropes), rope climbing, and top rope climbing. While club members vigorously climb on the walls, they conversely are more relaxed in the classroom, only having brief meetings to decide on climbing days. “Less time in the classroom means more time on the walls,” says Mr. Lee. 

The club’s mission statement talks about inspiring positivity and confidence in the youth while facilitating a learning environment in which students can become educated on everything there is to know about rock climbing. Their focus is on building an inclusive climbing community where students can seek adventure and challenges and become passionate about rock climbing all the while still having fun and keeping active. 

“Everyone should try it once. Everyone is surprised that they enjoy it more than they think they would. It doesn’t matter who you are, anyone can do it. All that matters is that you’re better at it tomorrow than today” says advisor, Mr. Lee.