Correction: The rock climbing classes at the University Recreation Center have been offered for several years. In a previous version of the story, the classes were new this semester.

The University Recreation Center features two classes for those interested in rock climbing. 

The new climbing 101 class and belay class offered provides those who are new to climbing with the opportunity to become more experienced and to have fun while learning new techniques, according to the Recreation Center's website. 

Climbing 101 is a class for Recreation Center members who are interested in climbing, but who are new to the sport, Jonathan Rodriguez, a Recreation Center Climbing Wall employee, said. They can learn the basic techniques to rock climbing, he said.

The belay class teaches attendees how to facilitate the Climbing Wall. Participants are taught how to properly take a hold of the rope and assist other climbers, and other safety techniques are taught so that others can enjoy climbing, as well, Rodriguez said. 

If participants plan to belay at the climbing wall, they must take a skills check class annually. This class can be taken anytime the Climbing Wall is open, and it is designed for experienced climbers, according to the Recreation Center's website. 

The classes are offered at a wide variety of times for university students, faculty and Recreation Center members. Everyone has a chance to attend despite their busy schedules, Alexandrya Blackmon, a first-year nursing major, said. 

The classes cost $5, and Rodriguez said students are allowed to take as many classes as they feel necessary. 

“I love going to the Rec and climbing the right side of the Wall anywhere from 2 to 9 p.m. because it is free to all students, and the staff is very helpful,” Blackmon said.

Jake Pisarski, a Climbing Wall employee, said he recommends trying both classes because they collectively offer important skills in the rock-climbing world.

The wall is open to all students, faculty, staff and members of the Recreation Center. All climbing equipment is available at the Wall for free, Pisarski, a sophomore communication and psychology double major, said.

The climbing wall hours are Monday through Friday from 2 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m.

More information on class times and other classes can be found on the Recreation Center’s homepage.