The Wall closed Nov. 11, 2013 

[slideshow_deploy id=’14183′]Students looking for an unconventional workout, or just to have some fun with friends, may find what they are looking for at The Wall, an indoor rock climbing facility in Oswego.

Located at 77 W. First St. in Oswego, this semester The Wall introduced free Friday night climbing for all Oswego State students from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. But that is not all The Wall has to offer.

Unlike many rock climbing facilities, at The Wall there are no harnesses, no ropes and no helmets. Yet The Wall compensates by supplying a challenging and supportive bouldering experience. It provides a total change from a traditional workout. Climbing at The Wall can work out new muscles, while growing balancing and coordination skills that students can’t do at a standard gym.

The Wall was founded by Mike Taber in September 2011 in an effort to create a local place for curious college climbers, and also offer an honest introduction into the real world of climbing for all of their customers. Whether looking for a place to try something new, or to help you become a professional climber, The Wall offers a range of difficulty level. From beginner to advanced, it will keep any person motivated and challenged.

When you walk into this seemingly small facility, you are greeted by a highly experienced staff. Whether they are students or professionals, staff members will always offer suggestions and guidance on climbing through some of the more difficult routes.

“There is nothing more satisfying when you conquer that fear or route,” said Andy Freeman, previous manager of The Wall and a climber since 1988. “I have seen this sport change a lot of people’s lives, not only including my own but power students as well, I’ve seen kids walk in here not knowing how to climb but having that drive and eventually become great climbers even outside of The Wall.”

Despite the size, The Wall is larger than it looks mainly because of the rotation and constantly changing routes, rocks and additions. The Wall will always supply their customers with climbing shoe retails, access to chalk bags and safe crash pads below each wall. With bouldering walls ranging from 14 to 16 feet high and angles varying from 50, 75 and 65 degrees, all four sides have a total of 68 different routes.

The Wall also has more to offer than their facilities. The facility hosts classes, competitions, birthdays and group events. For the fall semester it is open Monday through Thursday from 4:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m, Friday 4:30 p.m. to midnight and Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is free on Fridays starting at 7 p.m. for all Oswego State students, but prices for the public and more information is posted on its website.