My younger brother is really interested in indoor climbing and l really do not know anything about it. How old do you have to be? l know that there is someone there holding some ropes but l have no clue what that is about. We are both going to take an intro to rock climbing course in January but we would like to know a little before we go. l have always wanted to try it but the little walls in Six Flags is as far as l have gone.
Another question if you currently do this, how often do you go? Is it actual exercise?And how much does it cost per however long you do it?

Well l climb mainly outdoors on real rock, but an indoor wall for a young kid is a great start. l would definitely look into a class for both of you, this way u understand what he is doing. If he enjoys it that much sign him up for a course- multiple classes. It is great exercise but there is being in shape & in shape for climbing. when u climb u use muscles that u did not even know u have. As far as gear goes l wouldnt buy anything just yet. Since he is young he will outgrow everything & anything in a couple of months. Chnces r they rent gear at the rock gym. If he really enjoys it after a while talk to the ppl who work there about buying used shoes, they will be significantly cheaper

Indoor climbing is a great place to start. There r typically no age requirements for climbing, but there r usually restrictions on who can belay a climber (hold the ropes as u say). Belaying is the person who feeds the rope through a belay device & catches the climber if he falls.

Yes, indoor climbing is good exercise & if u climb 2 - 3 times per week u feel the pain - especially as u get better & start climbing harder routes. l go 2 times per week in the winter & have a monthly gym membership.

Good Luck

Here r a couple of links to Rock gyms in my area so that u might find some more information. The guys have given great advise. l am really happy to see u taking an interest with ur younger brother. This should be a great way to enjoy family & get some awesome exercise & social rewards. l go indoors about once a week so l am not in as good a shape if l went more, but l still is beneficial with all my other activities.

http://bostonrockgym.com/
http://azontherocks.com/?gclid=CNKInv_Ti5cCFQrAGgodlHGQ_A
http://kidica.com/kids-entertainment/kids-activities/outdoor-activities.aspx
http://metrorock.com/

These may not be in ur area, but will provide some insight to what u can expect.

Have fun!

I've done climbing walls. Facility custodial closet has mop in bucket
for vertical trickles. I'd rather go bouldering or even illicit buildering
(climbing man-made structures for sport), in-lieu-of climbing wall, to
reduce expenses. My last membership was $25 monthly, included
pro-shop, and employed excellent fall-arrest cable security. Began
climbing in 1964 in caves and on crags.