The new wave rock-climbing wall (left) at Paragon Gymnastics in Central Park is the first of its kind in the United States. View More Images from this story Visit the Photo Place

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Welcome to the rock

Rock climbing wall attracts all ages.

By TAFT COGHILL JR.

Date published: 1/21/2005

By TAFT COGHILL

Kids, adults enjoy new walls

Shannon Wohler couldn't believe what she'd gotten herself into.

On a trip to Seneca Rock, W.Va., last year, the 36-year-old Spotsylvania County mother of two found herself near the top of a mountain, staring downward in fright.

Surrounded by experienced mountain climbers, Wohler was perfectly safe.

But don't try telling her that.

"Everybody said I was safe," she said. "But I was scared so bad that I'll never do it again."

Wohler doesn't have to go too far to find a new type of climbing fix.

Two 24-foot rock-climbing walls have been constructed at the new Paragon Gymnastics Center in Central Park.

One is called a wave wall. Climbing instructor Terry Jackson said it's the first of its kind in the United States.

The second and more difficult is the comp wall, which is used for competitions.

Both are made from a fiberglass mold and provide users with a stiff challenge.

"I can't make it up very far," said 12-year-old Spotsylvania resident Ivy Buzzard. "It's a lot harder than it looks."

The third wall at Paragon is about half the height of the other two and only kids use it. It's considered the safest of the three.

Kids wear a helmet and harness when climbing the wave or comp wall. The major safety concern for instructors comes when kids are letting themselves down.

Inexperienced users often swing from the rope instead of continuing to use their feet to come down.

While swinging, a child's head could hit the wall. That's why the helmet is so important.

"It has more to do with inexperience than anything else," Paragon owner Ken Wood said. "But once they learn how to let themselves down, it won't be a problem."

Everyone from toddlers to adults have been drawn to the walls since the new Paragon facility opened two weeks ago.

Wohler, who Jackson said is "very pumped up," is certainly enjoying herself.

"It's a great alternative for the wimpy people," Wohler said. "And it's a great activity for the family."

Jackson coaches gymnastics at Paragon. The 30-year old Caroline County resident has a lifelong passion for climbing, as well.

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Date published: 1/21/2005