In January 2025, Blocworks Climbing launched its second bouldering gym in Midtown, Oklahoma City, five years after the first facility opened in Edmond, Oklahoma. Entrepreneurs Mariah and Evan Small identified a significant opportunity in the local climbing market, prompting them to explore areas suitable for a second location. The Midtown space presented itself unexpectedly when a friend of Evan’s began establishing a sandwich shop, Goose Deli, in a spacious building with nearly 5,000 square feet available for their envisioned gym.
Positioned approximately 20 minutes from Edmond, the Midtown location was chosen to complement the existing gym rather than compete with it. Evan noted that this proximity has proven advantageous: “The distance works well for us, as it creates value for our members while keeping overhead manageable.” Additionally, through a partnership with Climb Tulsa, members at both Blocworks gyms enjoy access to a mixed-discipline facility about an hour away, reinforcing a community-focused approach without overlapping services.
The Midtown gym features 1,825 square feet of climbing wall surface with walls reaching heights of 15 feet. A unique aspect of this facility is its 300-square-foot strength training room, designed exclusively for members to ensure a less crowded environment. Alongside this, the gym offers a retail pro shop, programming for both adults and youth, as well as 56 bouldering problems tailored to a range of skill levels.
Evan, who serves as the Director of Routesetting at Blocworks, emphasizes the importance of routesetting in the gym’s operations. Having started climbing in 2009 and beginning routesetting in 2011, he has a deep passion for this critical aspect. “Our focus on routesetting is what sets us apart,” Evan expressed, explaining that the gym employs circuit grading with 12 bouldering problems in each circuit to ensure a uniform experience for climbers.
In a bold move to enhance their identity, Blocworks has committed to being “owned and operated by routesetters,” ensuring that both gyms have managers who are fully trained in routesetting. “This focus on routesetting makes Blocworks truly unique,” concluded Evan, solidifying his commitment to creating an exceptional climbing experience.
