Ambassador’s Corner: Austin Bouldering Project

Hello Austin Fit Fam! AFM influencer Nikki Zahka (@Fitwithnikk_)  again and this time I am so excited to highlight the WestGate Austin Bouldering Project! What drew me to the Austin Bouldering Project wasn’t really the climbing or fitness, it was the inclusive environment and vibe as soon as you walk in. They believe that climbing, yoga, and fitness are for everyone, and when you walk through their doors, you’ll feel it! Bouldering Project is so much more than a gym – they’re a vibrant, growing community. They create inclusive fitness experiences that welcome everyone stepping into the gym, regardless of their movement background.

There are two locations, the Westgate location opened relatively recently in the past two years and is in the plaza by Central Market, and the original Springdale location is by Austin EastCiders. We had the opportunity to explore the newer Westgate location where you walk into the studio and to a massive open-concept gym with huge bouldering routes on both the left and right side of the gym, they even have a reserved kids section where they teach climbing etiquette and safety in a safe place for the kids to play and climb. If you continue to walk straight ahead you’ll see a large open-concept more traditional lifting gym, a fitness studio for a variety of different classes which I get into later in this article, if you walk up the stairs there is a yoga studio on the same floor as a co-working space for people to come hangout, get work done, or connect.

Before getting into what makes this studio special,  this Ambassadors corner is dedicated to I Live Here I Give here. Supporting 750+ local nonprofits organizations, I Live Here I Give Here has produced year-round programs and activities that actively engage and empower individuals, companies, nonprofits, and foundations to be more generous and contribute to a more equitable community for all.

Nikki’s chosen nonprofit: I live here I Give Here

Every contribution can make a big difference for our community! Donate Here.

So let’s get into it! Bouldering Project takes a holistic approach to fitness that incorporates a diverse range of activities, from indoor climbing on expansive climbing walls with routes designed for every level, to empowering yoga classes, to unique fitness offerings such as the Movement Playground, guided by an ex-Olympic weightlifter. They host specialized workshops like the Squat Clinic led by a former pro powerlifter, handstand workshops with an ex-Cirque du Soleil acrobat, and playful Acro Yoga sessions that challenge traditional fitness norms.

What truly sets Bouldering Project apart is their emphasis on community. They foster a welcoming environment where every member can feel at home, forge connections, and build friendships through shared experiences. Regular member meetups and social events build lasting connections that extend beyond the gym walls. One of the favorite social events for members is their annual Height Fight. Height Fight is a competition defying gender categories, and instead organizing climbers based on their height. It’s also a charity competition, where all proceeds go to chosen local nonprofits. Last year, the evening capped off with a hilarious, climbing-themed wrestling show that evolved into a giant party. They will be planning something very special in 2024 too – you’ll definitely want to be there!

Bouldering Project signals a new chapter in fitness with their integrated approach to physical wellness by coupling climbing with distinctive movement-based offerings. It represents a departure from the traditional, compartmentalized gym or yoga studio experience. The studio’s emphasis on community and inclusion, as well as our dedication to making movement accessible, fun, and social, sets us apart. By encouraging exploration, curiosity, and playfulness, Bouldering Project is reshaping the conventional fitness narrative.

Austin Bouldering Project is my go-to spot for more traditional lifting as well as exploring a wide variety of non conventional movements and classes I otherwise would not have tried or experienced that make training fun again! All while meeting some really awesome like-minded people.