Outdoor Adventures

Outdoor Adventure Programming

For Fall ’25, the Outdoor Adventure (OA) program will primarily focus on the Climbing Wall at the David Williams II Recreation and Wellness Center. While OA has traditionally offered trips and equipment rentals, this semester our efforts are centered on providing a safe, inclusive, and accessible climbing experience.

Climbing Wall

Located inside the Rec, the climbing wall features:

  • Bouldering space for all skill levels
  • Free climbing shoes for those without gear

New to climbing? No problem! Here are some tips:

  • Warm Up Properly
    Begin with light cardio, followed by gentle stretching (especially shoulders, wrists, hips). Progress by climbing easy routes to get loose and ready.
  • Think Before You Move
    Plan your sequence before climbing. After each attempt, reflect: What worked? Any adjustments? This loop of plan–climb–review builds strong technique.
  • Watch Other Climbers
    Observe others—but don’t just copy. Adapt what works to your body and style; bouldering is about problem-solving your own way.
  • Focus on Balance
    Controlled, deliberate movements and stable body positioning are key. Avoid swinging—good balance lets you save energy and climb more efficiently.
  • Work on Weaknesses
    Identify and train your weak spots, like footwork or core strength. Improving these gives more benefit than honing areas you’re already strong in.
  • Prioritize Safety
    Warm up well, stay clear of landing zones, be aware of mat gaps, learn how to fall safely, and don’t rely solely on mats for protection.
  • Land Safely
    Whenever possible, down-climb instead of jumping. If you do jump:
    • Keep it controlled.
    • Bend your knees to absorb impact.
    • Land on both feet, not one.
    • Roll slightly or let your body follow through to spread out the force.
    • Always check that the landing zone is clear of people and gear before dropping.
  • Stay Relaxed & Patient
    Avoid stress and frustration. Bouldering is about solving puzzles—stay calm, breathe, and appreciate the process, including failures.
  • Ignore Grades
    Climb what challenges you, not what’s assigned a number. Grades are relative and shouldn’t define your progress or worth.
  • Climb Circuits
    Tackle a linked sequence of problems of similar difficulty. Circuits are great for endurance, improving technique, and highlighting weaknesses.

References

Climbing Wall Hours

Monday – Friday: 4:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Wall Closures:

Policies & Procedures

  • Climbing shoes are required while climbing and must be removed when leaving the area.
  • No climbing above the yellow safety line in the bouldering area.
  • Food and drink are permitted only on the stairs (not mats).
  • Limit: 6 climbers + 6 spotters on mats at one time.
  • Jewelry should be removed; long hair tied back.
  • Report all injuries or equipment damage immediately to staff located at the Welcome Desk.
  • Only Rec staff/approved designees may adjust hand holds.
  • Rec staff may suspend participants for unsafe or inappropriate conduct.

Contact