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Many fans of the great outdoors are turning their attention indoors during the winter months.

Carina Grennan, manager of Planet Rock Climbing Gym in Pontiac, said she's noticed an increased number of climbers come to the gym.

"Climbers are a different breed of people," said Grennan, who has worked at Planet Rock for five years. "They're more 'outdoorsy' people — people who like to do something different."

Planet Rock has been hosting area rock climbers since it opened its doors to the public in 1993. The gym offers more than 13,500 square feet of climbing area, with walls reaching 55 feet high. The gym also has a motorized climbing wall and bouldering cave.

Grennan said rock climbing strengthens the upper body and works on balance.

"I think it's a lot more fun than just lifting weights," she said. "You're exercising, but you're having fun."

Glen Stewart and his girlfriend, Jessica Stuehmer, both of Lake Orion, have been avid rock climbers for four years.

"It's a different atmosphere here," Stewart said. "Everyone's willing to help you out. When you go to a gym, even if you go with family members, people are more competitive. Here, if you can't do it, then you can't do it."

"It's mentally and physically challenging, more than running on a treadmill," Stuehmer said. "It's nice to come here in the winter, too." Rod Myers of Bloomfield Hills brought his children, Rod Jr., 9, and Sarah, 5, to climb. "The weather is gloomy out and it's nice to get away from screen time," Myers said, referring to time spent in front of televisions or computers.

"I like making little challenges in my life," Rod Jr. said. "I've been here once before and I've wanted to come back."

"I love this place," Sarah said. "I like it and I love it. I've never been here before and (climbing) makes me feel good." The youngest climbers start at age 5. After that, Grennan said, there is no age limit. "We have a 76-year-old woman who comes and climbs," she said.

Planet Rock offers clubs, for young climbers looking to climb on a regular basis, and teams that offer young climbers an opportunity to train for future competitions.

Emily Collins, 13, of Rochester Hills, is a team climber. "I knew the team would make me a lot stronger," she said. "The instructors help you by telling you what to work on. Being with kids your own age helps too."

"It's a fun place," Grennan said. "I think this is way more fun than just training. To me, it's not even exercising. It's our own little family (here)," she added.