Florida isn't exactly known for dramatic cliffs and soaring spires. But I still found a thriving rock climbing community at Vertical Ventures in Tampa, Florida. Housed in a warehouse space, this rock climbing gym is jam packed with talented young climbers scaling the walls and cheering on other climbers from the padded floor. About half of the athletes are women.
24 year old Terin has been climbing for about a year. The former gymnast moves with spider like skill across the overhangs, leaping to catch finger holds just out of her reach. The other climbers watch and yell out encouragement and direction. Terin took up rock climbing after leaving collegiate gymnastics. “I wanted a challenge that would fill the void," she says. “This is hard, challenging and I like the mental aspects." Her gymnastics background has helped her excel, giving her great upper body strength and a fearless attitude. But she emphasizes that there's more than brute strength involved in the sport. “I had to learn the technique, how to move my body on the wall, and build finger and forearm strength."
Amanda, a college student, has been rock climbing for three years since discovering this offbeat way to stay in shape. She loves how rock climbing has helped her build muscle unlike any other activity she's tried, and improved her flexibility.
Amanda's advice on how to get started? “Start on an easy route and work your way to the harder ones. Work on a route you can't finish. Ask people to help you out."
-Tereza Ohley
age: 22city: OMAHA, NESelected from countless girls, Brittany impressed us the most. Athleticism. Charisma. Sports-savvy. She has it all - including the Nike contract.
