If you’re looking for a new social network coupled with a full-body workout, Philadelphia Rock Gyms (PRG) in Wyncote is worth a visit.
Beth Bradley, an Oreland resident and former Associate Director of Student Affairs at Penn State Abington, has been climbing at the Wyncote location since 2019. Impressed with the amenities and the community, she transitioned from a 20-year career in higher education to serve on PRG’s marketing team in Outreach and Community Partnerships.
With five locations and a sixth gym opening later this year in University City, PRG, along with its sister gyms in Charlotte, North Carolina (Inner Peaks) and Latham, New York (Hudson Boulders) offers its members a variety of rock-climbing routes and bouldering problems to climb. Beth works across the regions for the parent company, the Climbing Collective, to create and secure partnerships with schools/colleges, scouts, nonprofits, corporations, rock climbing clubs, and more.
“I was on the other side of my current role with PRG not too long ago,” she said. “I took Penn State Abington students to PRG for team building programs, which combined climbing and ‘off the wall’ activities where they focused on things like leadership, communication, problem solving, and critical thinking. Resident Assistants, Orientation Leaders, student-athletes and my staff really enjoyed the challenge! The student athletes didn’t hesitate to get on the wall.”
Bradley noted that PRG has laid the groundwork for indoor rock climbing since its debut more than 30
years ago as one of the first indoor rock-climbing gym in the Philadelphia area and
one of the first in the United States.
“We have expert staff and a solid community where everyone is welcome. No matter your age or ability, you have the chance to try something that challenges you both physically and mentally. This is what keeps people coming back,” Bradley said. “All of our gyms are unique in the kind of community and activities/classes they offer. Part of my job is developing ways for organizations and people to come, try something new, and form a connection that is sustainable and mutually beneficial.”
First-timers drop by often, Bradley said, all of whom receive a safety orientation and a gear overview.
“You can come and use a day pass and check it out, sign up for a class, schedule a birthday party, or become a member,” she said. “Our staff will ‘show you the ropes’ and you’ll learn how to put on a harness for top roping, for example. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned climber, you receive a safety orientation before getting on the wall. Learning how to fall properly, how to tie a figure eight knot, how to belay someone on the wall, and how to communicate with your climbing partner are key.”
The gym offers top roping “routes” with different types of holds to traverse and bouldering (climbing without a harness on lower walls) “problems” to solve. Climbs range from beginner level all the way up to expert level. Classes are offered for youth and adults of all abilities, and instructors provide private and group lessons. The gym hosts competitions like the Burn Series with awards and rankings, indoor and outdoor excursions, birthday parties, school year day camps, as well as summer camps.
Members can climb at any of PRG’s five gym locations.
The social side of climbing is part of the allure, Bradley said. The gym hosts meet-ups tailored to specific groups or identities, particularly women.
“Women are becoming a very popular demographic. More and more are climbing. It’s not as intimidating when you see someone who looks like you,” she said. “It’s a great way to meet new friends.”
Her son “pretty much lives at PRG,” she said.
“He started with summer camps, took some classes, and eventually joined the Climbing Team. His confidence as a climber, as a person, has grown leaps and bounds. His ability to focus, solve problems, and regulate on the wall has been amazing to witness over the years,” Bradley said.
Building partnerships is a key feature of PRG’s mission. They work with Upending Parkinson’s, a national organization, to encourage those struggling with Parkinson’s disease to give climbing a shot.
“There’s been a lot of research about climbing and Parkinson’s where people get on the wall and they stop shaking. They’re able to strengthen their bodies, extend their wellness, and find community on the wall,” she said. “We have another organization, First Descents—people living with cancer and MS—who meet at our gyms. It’s a place where people can feel like they’re being supported on multiple levels.”
PRG also hosts the annual Banff Centre Mountain Film Festival at Immaculata University each March.
“It showcases the best in mountain adventures and extreme sports, conservation efforts and breathtaking scenery. The proceeds from our raffle support The Schuylkill Canal Association,” Bradley said.
For more on Philadelphia Rock Gyms Wyncote, located at 827 Glenside Avenue in Cheltenham Township, you can visit their website, Instagram page, and Facebook page.
For all the latest news, follow us on Facebook or sign up for Glenside Local’s “Daily Buzz” newsletter here.
Photos: PRG / Andrew Keyes