SPONSORED EDITORIAL

It’s that time of the year again.

You’ve made the New Year’s resolution to get healthy and now the onus is on you to deliver.

Following the recent festive indulgence of the Christmas season, people across Kent and beyond will be determined to do away with the unwelcome effects of too many mince pies.

But thinking of January as the time to start a wellness goal may actually backfire in the long run if your heart's not in it.

Hitting the treadmill in the gym is certainly not for everyone and there’s certainly many more ways to keep fit and active.

Exercise and fitness doesn't have to be boring or repetitive, especially when there are unique places in Kent where it’s not just about timed work outs and counting calories.

Chimera Climbing have two bouldering walls, in Tunbridge Wells and Canterbury. These are brilliant indoor facilities which serve as the perfect introduction to the world of climbing, and can be enjoyed by children from five years old with no upper age limit.

“Bouldering is a particular style of climbing that’s performed on real rock or indoor walls without the use of a harness or rope,” said Chris Searle who is the director and owner of Chimera.

“More and more people are getting into bouldering because it’s something new, fun and a brilliant form of exercise.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT CHIMERA CANTERBURY

“Here at our newest facility at Chimera Canterbury, we have a huge range of walls and problems to try, at a wall which is at the forefront of the climbing scene in the South East. Our boulderers learn to climb in a fun and friendly atmosphere surrounded by like-minded people.

“We don’t need to use ropes and instead the walls are much lower and surrounded by safety matting. That also means no harnesses to squeeze into and no tricky knots to learn.”

Whether you’re new to the sport of climbing, looking to get fit, keen to implement a healthy lifestyle or a seasoned pro, Chimera has it all.

Climbing is also great for strength building, improving balance, flexibility and coordination.

Both gyms have a variety of different angled walls offering unique challenges, as well as a dedicated training area with campus boards and finger boards.

“Climbing is our passion here at Chimera,” continued Searle.

“Bouldering may sound a little daunting to those who are new to it but it’s actually great fun and a super way to get fit. You can come alone or with a friend or even a group, everyone is welcome here. And with climbing going into the Olympics this year, it’s only going to grow in stature.”

“Our gyms have a range of different routes to climb, from really easy beginner climbs with lots of holds through to advanced blocs so there is something for everyone, no matter what your ability or starting fitness level.

“It’s a lot more fun than running miles and miles on a treadmill in my opinion. It also makes for a great day out with friends, colleagues or even as a team building exercise.”

Searle adds: “If you want a helping hand, we offer taster sessions to those new to the sport and coaching classes for those looking to improve.”

No prior experience is required and no expense gear is needed at Chimera. People can simply rent shoes from reception.

All they need to do is turn up at the Tunbridge Wells or Canterbury walls, register (registering online can save time) and watch the short safety video.

For more information about Chimera Canterbury, visit the official website by clicking here, telephone 01892 457 294 or email canterbury@chimeraclimbing.com.