What Indoor Climbing Can Learn from Earthquakes, Celebrities, and the NFL:

August 2025 Trends Through a Climber’s Lens

August 2025 has been a wild one. From a minor earthquake in New Jersey shaking the East Coast to the NFL preseason kicking off with drama, and even Naked Gun making a return - there’s no shortage of trending stories. But what do all these have to do with indoor climbing gyms?

Actually, quite a lot.

🧗 Earthquakes & the Importance of Resilience in Gym Design

The earthquake in NJ this week was a wake-up call about structural resilience. While climbing gyms aren’t on fault lines in most areas, it highlights the growing importance of investing in robust infrastructure and inspection regimes. From wall anchoring systems to impact zones and flooring, consultants and gym operators alike need to take safety from a “nice-to-have” to a brand cornerstone.

🦠 Lyme Disease & Climbing Health Protocols

Lyme disease isn’t transmitted in gyms, but its prevalence reminds us why proactive health practices matter. Gym hygiene - like hand sanitiser stations, regular mat cleaning, and touchpoint disinfection - shouldn’t be relics of the COVID era. They’re now brand differentiators, just like Celsius’ recent recall reminds us of the power (and risk) of being a consumer-facing wellness brand.

🏈 NFL Preseason & Performance Metrics

As Micah Parsons and Terry McLaurin gear up for a new NFL season, sports performance is trending. Climbing facilities can capitalise by offering structured athlete-style programming - periodised training, analytics-based performance tracking, and strength and conditioning. Consider it your local version of “NFL season prep” - just for climbers.

🎭 Celebrity Culture & Gym Branding

From Shannon Sharpe’s lawsuit to Sydney Sweeney’s American Eagle ad, celebrity brand association is powerful. Climbing gyms are increasingly cultural spaces, not just athletic ones. Smart operators are collaborating with micro-influencers - think local outdoor athletes or yoga instructors - to build community credibility and widen audience reach.

Alex Puccio at Westway Climbing

🎸 Lollapalooza, Hannah Montana Tour 2026, & Climbing as Experience

Events like Lollapalooza aren’t just music - they’re immersive. Climbing gyms can learn here. Host themed nights, DJ sets, “Glow Climbs,” or even F1 watch parties. If The Savannah Bananas can redefine baseball, you can redefine gym experience.

🔮 “War of the Worlds 2025” & Future-Proofing Your Business

With global uncertainty rising (hello, War of the Worlds 2025 trailer), one thing’s clear: passive gym models won’t survive. Diversify revenue with coworking zones, structured coaching, and decent F+B for example. Think less traditional gym, more lifestyle ecosystem.

Conclusion: Stay Clued In, Stay Ahead

Today’s headlines may seem far from your climbing gym floor, but cultural trends are powerful. From Kamala Harris to Storm Floris to Wednesdays Addams, what people talk about shapes how they spend time and money. Being culturally relevant is no longer optional for indoor climbing gyms - it’s a competitive advantage.

Need help building a climbing brand that’s built for the long haul (and the next trending news cycle)? Let’s talk.