Last night, I went rock climbing for the first time with my friends. No, not climbing actual rocks - indoor rock climbing. I've been past this place quite a few times already in Villawood called the Sydney Indoor Climbing Gym Villawood.

Before you can start, have to print out a waiver and fill it in/sign it, or if I remember correctly, you can also do that at the gym on the tablets right when you enter.

When I first got there, I was a bit overwhelmed but also amazed at how big and high up the gym was. There were many different sections and also quite bright(the lights) and colourful. If you're new to rock climbing, the staff teach you how to use the equipment safely and correctly. We were then able to pair up and begin climbing! I thought it was a very fun and exciting night. A little scary, I might add! As I am scared of heights, I didn't feel comfortable climbing up too high - only reaching a third way up the wall, whereas everyone else was able to go up at least half way. It's ok though. I will become more confident once I've been there a few more times.

There was also another part of the gym called 'caving', which is really just like a tunnel you move through. There are different levels which obviously means it gets harder to get in and out. Of course, the first level is a straight tunnel. We brought our phones with us to use as light to guide us. I think this activity was really nice because my friends were all communicating to each other and letting the ones behind each of us know what to watch out for and making sure we didn't fall on each other.

Here are some photos of the gym:



Just a warning: if you go caving, be prepared for some tight spaces and also bruises on your arms and legs (unless you bring knee pads and arms pads).

Overall, it was a great experience - worth the bruises. Will definitely return for some more rock climbing and caving.

Emma x