Roc-Bloc in Grangetown will feature modern bouldering wall design and a kilter board
CLIMBERS in Wales are eagerly awaiting the opening of a new indoor centre for bouldering — a form of rock-climbing without ropes.
Roc-Bloc, a rock-climbing gym in Grangetown, describes itself as a “world class bouldering facility” and is scheduled to open this month.
The new centre on Penarth Road will feature modern bouldering wall design, a café and a kilter board, a huge training wall which climbers can adjust to virtually any angle.
Roc-Bloc is only the second rock-climbing centre to open in Cardiff, but has already attracted interest. The gym’s owner, Steve Mayers, said he was receiving enquiries from customers every day.
In view of current restrictions, Roc-Bloc will operate at half capacity. Visitors will be encouraged to social distance with staff observing the usual measures on the counter with sanitising. The centre also boasts a substantial fresh air system, refreshing the air of the entire unit as many as a six times per hour.
Bouldering has become increasingly popular and will make its Olympic debut in Tokyo in 2021.
“It’s a type of climbing which is very accessible,” explained Mr Mayers.
“It doesn’t require ropes, or complicated equipment or very much induction. People can come in and try it. It’s the fastest growing, most popular aspect of indoor climbing nowadays.”
Wales’ firebreak ended on November 9, but as many people report being more anxious in lockdown, and with after-school clubs struggling, Cardiff’s new rock-climbing centre could become a sporting lifeline.
“It’s a great form of exercise, very physical, but equally it’s also very sociable,” said Mr Mayers. “Hence, we’ve made it really open. Plenty of room to chill out.
“And it’s a very equal sport. You might get someone who’s an Olympic hopeful in here alongside complete beginners. There’s no elitism. It’s a very encouraging kind of sport.”
So, what’s so special about rock block?
“We’re purely bouldering. We’re more spacious in terms of layout, which is particularly good in the current climate. We’ve got an adjustable angle kilter board. It’s one of the first in the UK and it’s something which people are very excited about. There’s a phone app. Press on to that particular route on your phone and the holds you’re allowed to use light up. It’s a very modern centre.”
Emily Campbell, centre manager at Roc-Bloc, said she was excited to soon have customers in enjoying the space.
“We’ve been here since October 1,” she said. “We were obviously meant to open just before we went into lockdown and then lockdown happened and there’s been matting delays, so it’s been put back a little bit longer than we’d hoped.”
- Roc-Bloc will open on Thursday November 26 2020
