It’s a new school year, and if you’re like the rest of us, you’ve probably vowed to eat a little healthier and workout a little more often. But if you’re new to the gym, or maybe you haven’t been in a while, it can feel intimidating. If this sounds like you, fear not: we’ve put together a guide that covers everything you need to know about joining The Rec.

Rec Center exterior

Where to go 

CU Boulder offers two fitness center locations: The Rec and Williams Village Rec Center. Each center offers unique amenities on both sides of campus to help you find your fit, whether you’re interested in swimming, cardio, group classes, tennis, basketball, ice skating, rock climbing or strength training. Choose the facility that’s best for you, or make the most of what they both have to offer!

 When to go 

Both The Rec and Williams Village Rec Center offer flexible hours, so you can find a time that works with your schedule. Normal semester hours are listed below. Be sure to check online for holiday and break hours.

  • Monday – Friday: 6 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. 
  • Saturday – Sunday: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

If you’re looking for a quiet time to go to the gym, we suggest going in the early morning (6 a.m. to 10 a.m.) or later in the evening (after 7 p.m.) to avoid rush hour crowds. If you find yourself feeling gym-timindated during busy hours, there are a number of studios that may be available for more private workouts if there are no classes already scheduled.

 What to bring and locker options

Come prepared with your Buff OneCard, a reusable water bottle and proper workout attire. All patrons are expected to follow the dress code: shirts must be worn at all times except in locker rooms and pool areas, shorts must be an appropriate length and closed toe shoes are required.

Day-use lockers are available to store your personal belongings. Just remember to bring your own padlock or purchase one from Guest Services. If you plan on coming to The Rec more regularly, consider purchasing a semester-long locker (available starting Monday, August 26 while supplies last).

If you choose to participate in an activity that requires extra equipment, like racquetball or soccer, The Rec offers a variety of free equipment rentals to all Buff OneCard holders through Guest Services. 

Headed to the pool? Don’t forget your suit! Rent a free towel Buff OneCard by visiting Guest Services. The outdoor Buff Pool is open seasonably and offers a variety of fun activities. Indoor lap pools are open year-round. They’re used for general recreation and team practices, so be sure to check out our pool hours online for open swim times. 

Special Classes & Programs

The Rec offers a wide variety of courses and programs throughout the semester. Give them a try!

  • Fitness classes: With over 90 group fitness classes to choose from, The Rec is a great place to try new activities! All classes are free during the first week of each semester. You can also join free classes during Free Friday Power Hour every Friday at 5:30 p.m. For semester-long access to classes, grab yourself a Be-Fit Pass (they’re on sale through September 2)!
  • Personal training: Training Services can be a great resource for those looking to start or improve their strength training program. Visit the FitWell office on the 2nd floor of The Rec to learn more and be matched with a trainer.
  • IM Sports Leagues: Want to participate in sports without walking onto a division team? Try out Intramural Sports! The Rec offers a variety of leagues and single-day tournaments. Form your own team, or sign on as a single. Semester-long passes are $20 and year-long passes are $35. Both allow you to join as many IM teams as you’d like!
  • Outdoor Program: Find your adventure with The Rec’s Outdoor Program. Offering a variety of student trips, courses and equipment rentals, our experts are here to help you make the most of the great outdoors. The Outdoor Program also provides access to the Climbing Gym for $25 per semester. Day passes and shoe rentals are also available.
  • Fitness Court: Want to work out outside? Try out our brand new outdoor Fitness Court in front of the Main Student Recreation Center. A variety of workouts will be posted each week and all Fitness Court classes are free for Buff OneCard holders!

 Wellness suite 

In addition to gym services, The Rec also offers general wellness services through the FitWell Suite. 

  • The Nutrition Resource Clinic offers free nutrition consultations every Wednesday, from 1-5 p.m. No appointments necessary. 
  • Nap Pods are located on the 2nd floor of The Rec. They are available for 20-minute drop-ins and provide a quiet place for students to relax or take a quick snooze.

 Inclusive Rec

The goal of Inclusive Rec is to create a safe and welcoming environment, while providing accessible and respectful opportunities for all.

Our facilities were built with inclusiveness in mind including ADA equipment, adaptive climbing, all gender locker rooms and ice and sled walkers. Inclusive Rec also puts on free events throughout the semester that are tailored to provide a more inclusive experience for our students.

Whether it’s your first time at the gym or your first time back, The Rec has something for everyone. Find your fit, meet new friends and join our community!