Student Recreation Facility
737 S. Halsted St.
Chicago, IL 60607
(312) 413-5150

Come and try our incredible Entre Prises' Free Form climbing wall. Entre Prises' is the world's premier climbing wall manufacturer and Free Form is the most advanced product in climbing wall technology. Free Form accurately simulates the look, feel, and detail of real rock! Our wall is 43 feet tall, 7 top ropes across, and has a stunning variety of built in features such as: cracks, flakes, pockets, arêtes, a dihedral, as well as endless intricate features.

Rock-climbing is a multi-dimensional sport that requires strength and flexibility, as well as a high level of endurance and skill. It also offers a balance between physical exercise and mental discipline. Climbers will quickly begin to develop hand, arm, back, and core strength as a result of the movements the climber needs to scale the wall. With practice, climbers will see improvement in agility, their ability to increase strength-to-weight ratio and flexibility in hips and hamstrings.

In addition, our friendly staff would love to introduce you to this popular and fast growing sport. We are constantly changing our routes to challenge every type of climber from beginner to advanced skill levels. Each route varies in length and style so climbs never get tedious.

Classes*

Introduction to rock climbing classes are offered on a frequent basis. Four week classes run once a week for an hour and a half. Classes are taught by experienced staff members and provide basic understanding of the sport of rock climbing. Students will be taught basic belay and knot techniques as well as valuable climbing techniques to assist new climbers to successfully reach the top of the wall. For a nominal fee, students can sign up for classes on-line. A belay certification is included in the class. This permits the climber to belay his/her friends without waiting for a staff member.

Advanced classes for more experienced climbers are offered using a similar format with an emphasis on more advanced technique, lead belay, and sport climbing. Students need to be able to climb at least a 5.9 to enroll in this class.

Our new TRX Summit Class is a circuit-style fitness class that combines the TRX suspension training, kettlebells, classic body weight exercises, and wall climbing specifically designed to target specific muscle strength and endurance needed for climbing.

Keep your eyes out for other fitness-based climbing classes coming soon to the SRF!

*Currently our classes are only open to UIC students or members. Classes and private lessons will be open to the community soon!

Wall Rentals

The wall can be rented for parties and private events. For more information contact Nathan Scott at nascott@uic.edu or call (312) 413-5168.

Hours

Prices