Making Rock Climbing Inclusive: The Emergence of Specialized Climbing Programs in Singapore
In the bustling city-state of Singapore, amidst the towering skyscrapers and urban landscapes, a quiet revolution is taking place. Two local climbing gyms, Verticlimb and Outpost Climbing, are spearheading an inclusive movement to make rock climbing more accessible to individuals with special needs and disabilities. These efforts are not only breaking barriers but also reshaping perceptions about the sport and its reach in the community.
### A Climbing Coach’s Journey to Inclusivity
In the heart of this movement is Ng Yan Zhi, a seasoned climbing coach at Verticlimb, whose passion for the sport extends far beyond the walls of the gym. Ng vividly recalls a pivotal moment in his coaching career when a 10-year-old boy with autism conquered a climbing wall after nine months of perseverance. The path to success was not easy, as Ng had to navigate the unique challenges faced by the boy, who initially shied away from the sport.
Ng’s innovative approach, rooted in patience and empathy, involved incorporating the boy’s favorite toys, games, and gradual exposure to climbing elements. Through this tailored process, the boy not only conquered the physical aspects of climbing but also experienced a profound breakthrough in his confidence and focus. Witnessing the transformative power of climbing on individuals with special needs inspired Ng to advocate for more inclusive programs in the climbing community.
Driven by this vision, Verticlimb introduced the Special Heights program in early 2024, offering personalized 1-on-1 classes for children with special needs. Consultations with special needs educators and occupational therapists shaped the program, emphasizing individualized instruction, sensory-friendly environments, and adaptive teaching methods. The gym’s commitment to inclusivity extends beyond physical training to fostering a supportive and understanding community for participants and their families.
### Climbing Beyond Sight: The Merdeka Monkey Initiative
Across town, Outpost Climbing is on a mission to broaden the horizons of rock climbing by making it accessible to the visually impaired. Collaborating with local social service agencies and the Japanese non-profit Monkey Magic, Outpost organized the Merdeka Monkey event, where visually impaired individuals had the opportunity to engage in top-rope climbing with trained volunteers. This initiative not only provided a unique sporting experience but also challenged preconceived notions about inclusivity in rock climbing.
Participants like Wong Meng Ee, a former national para-swimmer with visual impairments, found empowerment and freedom in scaling new heights. Through verbal descriptions, tactile guidance, and support from volunteers, climbers navigated the walls with precision and grace. The event highlighted the transformative potential of adaptive sports in enhancing spatial awareness, balance, and confidence among individuals with disabilities.
The Merdeka Monkey event served as a testament to the growing interest in para-climbing, a competitive discipline that aims to integrate athletes with disabilities into mainstream climbing competitions. The event’s success underscored the importance of providing tailored support, training, and resources to foster an inclusive climbing community.
### Scaling New Heights of Inclusivity
Looking ahead, both Verticlimb and Outpost are committed to expanding their initiatives and creating safe spaces for individuals with disabilities to explore the world of climbing. Ng envisions a future where the Special Heights program extends to multiple locations and diversifies into a comprehensive sports center for children with special needs. By prioritizing understanding, patience, and compassion in coaching, Verticlimb aims to instill a sense of belonging and empowerment among participants.
Similarly, Outpost plans to host the Merdeka Monkey event monthly, catering to a growing community of visually impaired climbers and volunteers. By refining their approach, incorporating feedback, and exploring new avenues for inclusivity, Outpost seeks to make climbing more accessible to individuals with diverse abilities. Through these initiatives, both gyms aspire to create a welcoming environment where everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, can experience the joy and thrill of rock climbing.
In a world where differences often divide us, these climbing programs in Singapore serve as a poignant reminder of the power of sports to unite, inspire, and transform lives. By embracing inclusivity, empathy, and collaboration, the climbing community is not only scaling new heights but also breaking down barriers and forging meaningful connections that transcend limitations. As Ng aptly puts it, “They need a lot more understanding from the rest of us and they deserve their own space to learn.” With each climb, each hold, and each shared moment, these climbers are rewriting the narrative of what is possible, one ascent at a time.
