Climb the Walls and Melt Down
My kids were curious to try the only magnetic climbing wall in Georgia, so we headed to MoJoBaS Fun Factory. The indoor play space offers many inflatables and play areas, but my twin 8-year-old boys were focused on the magnetic wall and immediately got suited up in the climbing gear that clings securely to the wall.
Each climber is provided a spotter and given a brief overview of how to maneuver up and down, sideways and even upside down. The ideal size for climbing is 35-150 lbs. and climbers need good upper body strength to move along the wall. Breaks are encouraged between each climb!
My sons said they felt like Spider-Man, as they defied gravity. Jayson liked it so much that he took a second turn. His first time, he went up and down and side to side. The second time, he walked upside down. My 6-year-old niece, hesitant at first, quickly got over her fears and took her turn climbing as well.
The wall is challenging because, due to magnetic force, climbers can’t just lift their hands or legs freely. There is a special method that requires rolling hands and feet to become unstuck for movement. It takes some practice, but kids get used to it quickly. My children have never done anything close to this experience and they thought it was out-of-this-world cool.
However, the Meltdown is stiff competition for the coolest activity in MoJoBas. The Meltdown is similar to The Sweeper on ABC’s hit show, Wipeout. Children (at least 4 feet tall) and adults stand on platforms and jump over or duck under a padded crane arm as it passes by. The crane moves at an automatic pace, but the operator can control the speed.
When my kids first stepped on, it was at a regular speed. They got used to the sweeping motion of the crane and they begged the operator to make it faster. As long as the participants follow safety rules and there isn’t a line, children can stay on it as long as they like. My kids even played with other kids there as if they were all show contestants. The laughter proved the children were having a blast, and they got a great workout at the same time.
Insider tips: Group passes and monthly passes are available. Free Wi-Fi is offered and you can bring your own food. Socks are required in open play areas.
– Marteeta Spradling