Methods may include introducing a polymerizable composition containing a polycyclic monomer and a catalyst into a subterranean formation; and polymerizing the polymerizable composition in the presence of the catalyst in situ to form a polymer. Methods may also include lowering a wellbore tool into the subterranean formation, wherein the tool contains a first partition containing a polymerizable composition, and a second partition containing a catalyst; releasing the polymerizable composition from the first partition; releasing the catalyst from the second partition; contacting the polymerizable composition and the catalyst in a mixing region; and reacting the polymerizable composition and the catalyst in situ to form a polymer.