When my daughter first joined the youth climbing team at Summit Strength and Fitness, I figured it would be a fun way for her to stay active and burn off some energy. I had no idea how much it would shape her—not just as an athlete, but as a person.
What started as “something to try” has turned into a space where she’s found confidence, strength, resilience, and a community that truly lifts her up.
Confidence One Hold at a Time
The first time she walked Summit, she was unsure of herself. She looked at those walls like they were impossible mountains. But climb by climb, something changed. Every time she figured out a new route or made it just a little higher than before, I could see her face light up.
Now, she walks in with her head high, chalks her hands, with an “I’ve got this” attitude. That confidence has followed her outside the gym, too. She’s more interactive at school, tries new things without hesitation, and doesn’t crumble when things get hard. Climbing has taught her she can do hard things, and that lesson is priceless. The youth climbing team did that for her.
Strength That Goes Deeper Than Muscle
Sure, she’s physically stronger. Her arms, core, and grip have transformed, but what really amazes me is the mental strength she’s built. Climbing has taught her patience, focus, and the power of persistence. It’s not about instant success; it’s about small wins and showing up again and again.
There’s something powerful about watching your kid fall off the wall, take a deep breath, and immediately jump back on. That kind of resilience doesn’t just happen. She learns it one climb at a time.
(Read how climbing builds mental strength in athletes)
A Lifelong Love for Movement
One of the things I love most about climbing is that it’s something she can carry with her forever. It’s not just a “seasonal sport” or one that ends after graduation—it’s a lifestyle, a community, and a way to explore the world. Whether she’s climbing in a gym or scaling real rock outdoors, I know this will always be something that brings her joy and balance. Climbing is the ultimate lifelong sport.
A Supportive Community That Feels Like Family
The youth climbing team at Summit is something special. The coaches don’t just teach climbing. They teach mindset, encouragement, and teamwork. The kids cheer each other on, celebrate every little victory, and support each other through the tough climbs.
It’s rare to find a community where everyone truly wants to see each other succeed, but that’s exactly what Summit is. It’s not about being the best—it’s about becoming your best, together.
Watching Her at Summit
As a parent, there’s nothing better than watching your child find something that lights them up. Climbing has given my daughter strength, confidence, courage, and a community that believes in her.
Every time she reaches the top and drops down with a smile, I’m reminded: she’s not just learning how to climb walls, she’s learning how to overcome them.
Erica Rowoldt
