Chalk bags at the ready: The exercise trend of summer 2018 is the body-sculpting sport of bouldering. Indoor halls are scattered across the city, but one favorite is Ostbloc, situated near the Rummelsburger Bucht, with its industrial views over the Spree. An airy, 1000m2 interior full of diverse three-dimensional climbing walls, plus soft landing mats, awaits inside, with seven skill levels clearly color-coded — from easy (yellow) to extreme (grey). Beginners are advised to book a one-hour training session for an introduction to technique and best practice — then round up friends for a Saturday afternoon of taking yourself to new heights, before relaxing on the lawn under a picturesque weeping willow, sun descending and a beer in hand. (Text: Anna Dorothea Ker / Photos: Pamina Aichhorn)
Ostbloc Boulderhalle, Hauptstr.13, 10317 Berlin-Rummelsburg; map
Mon-Thu 10-23h, Thu 10-24h, Sat-Sun 9-23h