Has anyone here ever tried it? I understand it's a great upper body workout and I can see where it could really do some core strengthening what with all the balance/reaching/stretching required. Anyone have any thoughts?

Hi Julia,
I've done a lot of climbing, both "real" and indoor wall climbing. It's a great full body workout, from your toes to your fingers . Look for an indoor climbing center with lessons. You can usually rent climbing shoes and they supply the rest of the equipment. Unless you know someone who is an experienced outdoor climber, the only way I can think to get started outdoors is to attend an EMS or Outwardbound type climbing school. Or if you live near any major climbing centers (hmmm...I've gone caving in Tenn., but I don't remember any major climbs there) ask at climb shops.

Mel

Actually there's a pretty good climbing gym not too far from me and I was thinking about calling them up and checking into classes. As far as major climbs around me, that's actually what got me started thinking about it. I've been trying to find a fun outdoor sport to get into and Chattanooga, from what I've found, is sort of the mecca of the SE for climbing (and caving too - the ex was a hard core vertical caver and moved here from Atlanta for that reason).

Where'd you go caving in TN?