Up ENDing Parkinson's

We are one of thirteen climbing gyms across the country to host an Up ENDing Parkinson's program. Up ENDing was started in Alexandria, Virginia at Sport Rock Climbing and Fitness. Our former Programming Coordinator Jon Querciagrossa met with the founder Molly Donelan-Cupka at the right moment: one month after she received word that Up ENDing was approved as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with the intent of supporting research on the effects climbing has on Parkinson's Disease. We started our program in August of 2023 keeping Molly's vision of a free program, supported by the gym and by volunteer assistance. We meet every Tuesday and Thursday from 3pm to 4:30pm.

Climbing as an activity for helping people living with Parkinson's is threefold in that it helps the body, the mind, and the soul. Since climbing is full body, it engages grip strength, balance, upper and lower body strength as well as the mind in problem-solving as climbers work their way up the wall. The sense of community in the climbing gym cannot be overstated as an element that elevates the soul. Every week the group meets to work hard, laugh, and cheer while climbing at On the Rocks.

We understand some folks might have reservations about climbing, and we encourage anyone with even the slightest interest to come by during the program to see what it's all about.

Interested climbers and volunteers can email Programming Coordinator Annalise at support@climbontherocks.com with any questions.