Recreation has begun hosting rock climbing events at Sanctuary Climbing & Fitness in Seaside this semester for the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic. On Tuesday, March 7, Recreation staff members and California State University, Monterey Bay (CSUMB) students had access to the climbing gym from 5:30 – 8 p.m. for only $15.
Kayleigh Morrison, a CSUMB graduate student and Recreation staff member were pleased to return to the climbing gym for a university event.
“We’re going to try to do every other week at a minimum. Once a week would be ideal because we’ve had an excellent turnout.” She enjoyed climbing for the stimulation and said, “this was a breakup sport for me and I needed something new and challenging. You can’t be immediately good at climbing, but it’s not an intimidating sport and I was surprised to see how fast your strength builds up.”
Climbing is an exciting way to increase strength and flexibility – but these are just some of the physical benefits. Participating in recreational activities brings a sense of community, allowing students the chance to make new friends while trying something new. This was their first time at a climbing gym, but others are regulars and frequently visit Sanctuary Climbing & Fitness.
Dereck Flores, a second-year at CSUMB, is a member at Sanctuary and coincidentally happened to be climbing during the recreation event.
“I’ve always loved monkeying around,” he said. “My friends and I decided to try it and I fell in love with it.”
Students interested in rock climbing can check MyRaft for future Recreation events. Sanctuary offers discounted rates for all Monterey County college students on Fridays.
