Island Rock is a state of the art indoor rock climbing facility built by Solid Rock Wall Systems.  This type of construction creates a unique, seamless climbing surface that is the closest thing to real rock you can find without bringing the real thing inside.  Island Rock offers climbing for all ages and abilities.  We have walls geared towards first time climbers who want to explore their old passion for climbing trees to the experienced, expert climber who climbs and competes all over the world.  Whatever your level of skill, we have something for you!

.Island Rock Features:

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):

1-     What is Belaying?

Climbing is a sport that requires two people unless you are just bouldering.  The climber has a rope tied to their harness which goes over a steel bar at the top of the wall and then runs back down to their partner on the ground.  The person on the ground who is responsible for ensuring the climber’s safety is called the belayer . 

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2-     This is my first time.  What do I do?

Belaying is easy to learn and Island Rock recommends that everyone (15 years old and older) learns to belay by taking a belay lesson.  As a belayer, you will be in contact with your friends, children, or spouses for an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.  And once you are belay certified, you can come back anytime Island Rock is open and climb for the day!

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For those climbers that do not have belayer or for those parents that just want to kick back and watch, Island Rock has staff belayers.

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3-     What do I do if I learned how to belay somewhere else?

For those that have already learned to belay and tie the knots, we will give you a belay test in which you must demonstrate the following:

-put on a harness properly

-tie directly into the rope using the figure eight, figure eight follow through, and double fishermans knot

-anchor into the ground

-know the climbing commands: on belay, belay on, etc.

-show proper safety and belay technique using a Gri-Gri

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4-     What age is this appropriate for?

Children as young as 6 years old can start climbing during their first visit to Island Rock (that’s why our birthday parties and climbing clubs are so popular!).  If you think your child under 6 years old would be a good climber, give us a call and we’ll explore the options for your child to climb.

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5-     Do I have to be strong in order to climb?

Absolutely not.  Island Rock has walls for every ability.  If you can climb up a ladder then you can climb here.  Climbing is a sport that you get progressively better at the more you do it.  Perseverance is the most important factor when you climb.  If you are not in good shape, you will see improvements rapidly when you start climbing.  The word “can’t” will soon leave your vocabulary, and you will see that you can soar past any limits you previously thought you had.

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6-     What are the benefits of rock climbing?

Rock climbing is FUN, plain and simple.  Beyond that, climbing is a total body workout.  If you’re not in shape and want to get in shape, rock climbing is perfect for you.  You’ll get your heart rate pumping for a cardio workout while you work your upper body, abdominals and lower body for strength.  If you already exercise, this is an amazing workout that beats the boring workouts you can suffer at other gyms.  Climbing has been featured in health and fitness magazines along with cable and prime time television specials.  And it’s easy to stay motivated because it’s so much fun!  This is the ultimate fitness experience!

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7-     What should I wear?

You can wear tights, sweats, long shorts, T-shirts, tank tops and sports bras.  Anything that isn’t movement restricting will work, although very baggy clothing can get in the way when you climb.  For girls, no skirts can be worn.  Traditional gym attire is appropriate.  If you’re attending an event (party, scouts, etc.), make sure you wear sneakers.

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8-     What should I bring?

The only thing you need to bring is the motivation and excitement to climb.  We supply everything else.

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9-     Do I need reservations?

Island Rock operates on a first come, first serve basis for lessons and staff belays.  If you are coming with a group of people, you can call to see how busy we are at that time.  However, we can’t guarantee a spot when you arrive.  We are people that hate to wait ourselves, so we will do our best to minimize the time you have to wait in the event someone is not immediately available.

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10- What happens if I’m afraid of heights?

This is for you!  There is no better way to get over your fear than to face it.  Climbing at Island Rock is a very safe and controlled environment in which you can get over your fear.  Our staff is extremely knowledgeable and helpful with people who are afraid of heights.  And it turns out that the people afraid of heights, once over their fears, are often the best climbers in the gym!

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Island Rock 60 Skyline Drive Plainview NY 11803 516-822-ROCK (7625)   Click here for full contact information including operating hours, maps and directions.