Your Guide to Campus Recreation During COVID-19

While it’s easy to agree that getting in your daily movement is important for your physical and mental well-being, it’s not always that easy. And with most of Penn State students residing in tiny apartments and still waiting for some spring warmth, the best option is the gym.

If you’re looking to go to one of the recreational facilities on campus there are some new regulations due to the ongoing pandemic to familiarize yourself with— Don’t stress though, VALLEY has you covered with the ins and outs of on-campus recreation.

As of February 8th, The IM building, McCoy Natatorium (indoor), Tennis Center and Hepper Fitness Center are open. The White building has remained closed.

Unlike before COVID, you can’t just walk into one of the buildings looking to get a quick sweat in. Instead, there is a new reservation system for open facility areas— check it out here. There’s also a new app, Penn State CRec, where you can find direct links to classes and programs, as well as a place to make and manage registrations. The app also allows you to get notified for upcoming classes and programs.

When making a registration, you’ll only be able to schedule a workout in specific areas in the facilities. For instance, at the IM building you can reserve a spot in the floor weights area, cardio area, functional weights, table tennis (singles only), badminton and indoor track/ spine cardio. The McCoy instructional and race indoor pool can also be reserved, as well as spots at the tennis center and Hepper fitness center. 

There are also new rules to be aware of, which include:

• wear a mask
• stay socially distanced
• clean your equipment both before and after use
• wash your hands frequently
• bring your own towel and water bottle

VALLEY urges you to remember to follow these guidelines for to protect yourself and others and to help make sure these facilities stay open. 

For those who still don’t feel comfortable going to a public gym, Penn State offers a variety of virtual services to do from the comfort of your apartment.

Penn State offers live virtual fitness classes daily, as well as a compiled list of fitness videos on YouTube.

Whether you choose to workout in one of the on-campus recreational buildings or virtually, VALLEY encourages to take advantage of the health opportunities Penn State has to offer.

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