Best Of CLE: Adrenaline Monkey's American Ninja Warrior Training Gym

The 24,000 square foot space in Cleveland has more than 50 obstacles used on American Ninja Warrior.

by Ilona Westfall | Sep. 28, 2021 | 11:00 AM

You’ve seen it on TV: Homemade American Ninja Warrior obstacle courses meant to test one’s balance, upper-body strength and grip. While the popular TV show has inspired many to construct feats of fitness with monkey bars, peg boards and cargo nets in their backyard, Denise Carkhuff leveled up instead.

In 2018, the Geneva resident opened the indoor adventure park, Adrenaline Monkey, but doesn’t take credit for the idea. “It was my twin daughters’ business idea when they were 8,” Carkhuff says. “My children said, ‘Mom, can you make a place that has American Ninja Warrior obstacles?’ ” The 24,000-square-foot space features more than 50 obstacles with challenges from ANJ such as warped walls. Warriors will also find parkour courses, rock climbing walls and an aerial ropes course. The facility trains aspiring warriors of all levels and ages.

“It’s pure adventure, and the skill it teaches is to adapt,” says Carkhuff. 26800 Renaissance Parkway, Warrensville Heights, 216-282-3100, adrenalinemonkeyfun.com

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