Discover Bouldering

If you’re looking for a fun, exciting, and social activity to try this summer, try bouldering.

What is bouldering? Bouldering is a type of rock climbing that is done close to the ground without the need for a rope or harness. It can be done indoors or outdoors, the only equipment you’ll need is a pair of climbing shoes and a crash pad.

Bouldering is practiced on small walls and cliffs less than 5 meters high. The climber’s challenge is to climb short but tricky bouldering “problems” using balance, technique, strength, and problem solving.

Climbing might seem very intimidating to someone who has never done it before. The only experience some people may have with climbing is watching a video of some professional climbing hundreds of feet in the air. Let me tell you, climbing is for everyone.

A common misconception with rock climbing is that you need a ridiculously strong upper body to be able to climb. In reality, anyone can start bouldering regardless of their current fitness level. In fact, a lot of bouldering problems require a strong mind rather than a strong body.

Ready to get started? Check out the local climbing gym North Wall in Crystal Lake. North Wall has a great bouldering room with over 200 routes ranging from V0 through V10 along with plenty of other amenities.

The difficulty of bouldering routes are graded on the “V” scale, ranging from V0 to V17. Most indoor gyms will have problems ranging V0 to V10, depending on the gym. This allows climbers to progress at their own pace through the levels of difficulty.

Most climbers will start on V0 which are the easiest problems. The best way to describe a V0 route is that it’s like climbing a ladder. Simple, straightforward, and a great way to test the waters of climbing and get used to coming down from the wall. Routes graded V1 or “easy” are where you will start learning some of the techniques used to boulder.

Everyone will progress differently, but most beginners can progress from V0 to V2 on their first day of climbing. The most important thing to remember when you go is don’t let the grade scare you. Some people may be able to climb a V4 route but struggle with a V2 simply because of how well the route suits your individual strengths. So, if you see a fun looking route you want to try, just try it.

Why should you try bouldering? Everyone can boulder regardless of their strength, age, and body type. It’s inexpensive and requires minimal gear. It is a fun and exciting way to workout your entire body. It is safe and easy to learn. It can be done almost anywhere in the world (many gyms and outdoor areas worldwide). If you’re more introverted, it can be done alone but indoor bouldering is very social and a great way to make friends.

The climbing community is extremely welcoming and friendly. Climbers love helping each other, especially helping first-timers. Any time you have a question when you go, don’t be afraid to ask.

The majority of climbers will have no problem performing a route to show you how it’s done.

North Wall is at 824 S. Main St., call 815-356-6855 for more information. They offer day passes, memberships, and rental shoes, chalk, and more.

— By Nathan Cihak

Find a new hobby

Summer is a time to decompress from the stressors of college life. One activity that students should do is finding a new hobby of their choice.

The hobby could be something that you have always wanted to do, but never had the time for. It could be related to your interests or future goals. It could also be something completely new.

Interested in memorizing country capitals? Make some flashcards and have people quiz you.

Always wanted to learn more about rugby? Dedicate time to watching highlights on YouTube.

The possibilities are endless.

If you cannot think of anything new to immerse yourself in, you can use websites to find topics of interest. Once you find something, dive deep into it. If you do not like it, try something else.

Exploring new things is always fun, so make this summer about you and your new hobby.

— By Zoe Emerson

Visit the Shedd

Head to Chicago to visit the Shedd Aquarium this summer. The aquarium is open on most days from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Tuesdays it is open until 9 p.m.

The Shedd displays plenty of different fish and animals from under the sea. The prices vary by day, so check their website https://www.sheddaquarium.org/  and book a day where prices are lowest. It is a must go to when you are visiting Chicago over the summer.

— By Gabe Graunke