Recreation and Wellness Center reopens, reduces fees

June 11, 2020 | UHCL Staff

With strict safety protocols in place, University of Houston-Clear Lake’s Recreation and Wellness Center reopened June 1.

“We know that people have been anticipating the reopening of the Recreation and Wellness Center for a while now,” said Campus Recreation and Wellness Director Brian Mills. “Engaging in physical activity is important all of the time, but during times of stress and isolation such as that surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic, physical activity is even more important.”

Mills said that the center has provided online fitness and wellness resources through the center’s social media channels since the closure in March. Posts have included such informative posts as 30 Days of Abs, Wellness Challenges and Campus RECipes.

“We appreciate all who have participated in the online challenges and our hope is that they have been helpful,” added Mills. “UHCL Campus Recreation and Wellness wants to continue to be a part of your fitness and wellness journey.”

Mills added that the opening of the center is based on guidance from the State of Texas, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and UHCL administration, and that changes could occur at any time as they monitor Harris County data.

Vice President for Student Affairs Aaron Hart concurred.

“UHCL administration supports the center re-opening, which will meet the recommendations of those set forward by the state and the CDC,” said Hart. “Our students and community members will benefit from this opening and should rest assured that all cleaning protocols will be met. We look forward to having members back at the center enjoying this beautiful facility.”

Continued Recreation and Wellness Center closures include the following:
• Locker rooms;
• All showers;
• Multi-Activity Court Gym;
• Multi-Purpose Room 1 nor Multi-Purpose Room 2;
• Personal training room.

Maximum capacity for the center will be no more than 70, with 25 or fewer patrons designated for specific areas. For instance, no more than 25 will be allowed in the first floor Fitness Zone at one time and the second-floor track will only welcome 10 at one time, with strict spacing guidelines enforced. Fitness equipment on the second floor has been rearranged throughout the four fitness zones and all equipment is available for use. Basketball courts are available for shoot around, singles badminton and table tennis as well.

Patrons 55+ and those participating in the Exercise and Nutritional Health Institute will have dedicated hours to work out: 7-9 a.m., Monday through Friday; and 10-11:30 a.m., on Saturday. All others may work out 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Monday through Friday; and noon – 4 p.m., on Saturday.

Because of space restrictions, members are urged to set appointment times for their workout. Reservations can be made by calling 281-283-2330 or when they complete their workout and intend to come back the next day.

In addition, new and continuing non-student memberships will be discounted during the summer (June through August) to $20 a month. Day passes will cost $5.

“We want all of the UHCL community to be able to stay active this summer,” added Mills.

Upon entering, all will also have to have their temperature checked. Those with a temperature of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or more will be asked to self-isolate and will be unable to return without a doctor’s permission.

The 81,709-square-foot Recreation and Wellness Center opened its doors in August 2018 and features dozens of amenities for students, faculty, staff, retirees, alumni and community members.

Find out more about how the Recreation and Wellness Center is keeping you fit and safe and stay up to date on new and revised policies.