The State of Texas has issued recommended guidelines for reopening of fitness facilities. With these guidelines comes the need for adjusted and new policies and protocols. The full State of Texas guidelines can be found online using the links below:

• Guidelines from the State of Texas for Fitness Facilities
• Guidelines from the State of Texas for Fitness Facility Patrons

 

The University of Houston–Clear Lake has developed the following protocols consistent with recommendations from the CDC and guidance provided by the State of Texas.

Accessing the RWC and Time Limits

• Members are required to make reservations until further notice.
• Patrons can call the Welcome Desk at 281-283-2330 to make reservations over the phone. No email reservations will be accepted.
• Patrons will have a one-hour limit for their workout. You may be asked to leave the RWC after one hour if the facility is at capacity.
• Cardio equipment usage is limited to 30 minutes per patron.
• Strength equipment usage is limited to 15 minutes per patron.

Patron Reservations

• Reservations can only be accepted over the phone or in-person for the current or next day.
• Any reservation requests for Monday morning will be accepted on Saturday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Members will provide their name and UHCL or Member ID number to confirm their reservations.
• Reservations will be held for no more than 5 minutes past the start time.

Wellness Checks

• Wellness checks are required for entry. Refusal to complete a wellness check or showing signs/symptoms will result in your inability to utilize the RWC.
• Students/Patrons identified with or experiencing any signs/symptoms described above will not be allowed access to the RWC until they are symptom-free for 72 hours.

 

RWC Capacity Maximums By Space

Maximum capacity of the RWC will be limited to no more than 110 patrons at any time beyond the Welcome Desk.

Lobby: capacity of 20

• Masks required at all times.
• Reservations by phone are accepted by calling the Welcome Desk at 281-283-2330 during operational hours or in-person for the following day.
• Queue lines will be created for patrons to wait in until they are called to the Welcome Desk for Wellness Check and ID scan.

Fitness Zone 1st Floor: capacity of 40

• A single entrance and exit point will be established for the first floor fitness zone. All patrons must enter and exit through that entrance at all times during operations.
• Cardio machine usage will be limited to no more than 30 minutes for any individual patron if others are waiting to use the the equipment. Masks are not required while using cardio equipment.
• Strength equipment usage will be limited to 15 minute maximum for a single piece of equipment or a fitness space (Olympic platform, bench press, etc) for any individual. Masks are required while performing strength workouts.
• Spotting or working out with a partner will be limited due to social distancing requirements. If needed, please ask for a Campus Rec staff member to spot you. They will remain at least six feet away and only assist if needed during a lift.

Basketball Court 1: capacity of 8

• Masks required at all times.
• No more than 2 individuals may be on a single table tennis table or badminton court at any time. Spectators or those waiting must wait in designated areas for next opening on a court or table.
• The queue area will not be supervised or managed by Campus Rec staff at this time.

Basketball Court 2: capacity of 6

• Masks required at all times.
• No more than 3 individuals may be using one side of the court (shooting baskets or hitting volleyballs or performing individual workout).
• No competitions (1 on 1, 21) may be played. Shoot or hit around only.
• The queue area will not be supervised or managed by Campus Rec staff at this time.

MAC Gym: capacity of 15

• Masks required at all times.
• Strength equipment will be located in the MAC gym for patron use.
• This space will be closed for soccer, volleyball, and other recreational sports usage.

Track: capacity of 15

• Masks required while walking.
• Masks are not required if running or jogging.
• Patrons moving from one fitness zone to another or walking to exit the track area do not count.
• Inside lane for walking, middle lane for passing, outside lane for jogging.
• Patrons may not walk side by side on the track.

2nd Floor Fitness Zones around the track: capacity of 35

• Masks are not required while using cardio equipment.
• Masks are required while performing strength workouts.
• Equipment will be spaced according to social distancing guidelines or select pieces will be closed for usage.
• All strength, core/ab, and stretching equipment on the second floor will be relocated to the turf areas or MAC Gym.

Space Closures, Restrictions

Spaces Closed for Patrons

• MP 1 and MP 2 for non-programmed activities through the Department of Campus Recreation and Wellness.
• Outdoor fitness zone closed.
• Personal training suite closed (academic use and departmental staff only).
• No showers are available in the locker rooms, only available in Family Changing Rooms.

Spaces open but with restrictions

• RWC Lobby – table seating will be minimal in the lobby area. No padded or fabric furniture will be in the space.
• Some day-use lockers will be available in the corridors of the RWC, but not in locker rooms. Those lockers will be designated throughout the facility and we will clean them throughout the day.
  • We will continue to allow bags and personal items to be carried throughout the facility but ask that patrons place those items out of the way of traffic or equipment.
• Locker rooms for locker rental access and bathroom facilities only. Changing clothes will be allowed. No day-use lockers available in locker rooms.
• Locker rentals are available.
• Family changing rooms on the first floor are available for use.
• Family changing room showers are available. Please notify Welcome Desk staff if you used the showers so we can perform cleaning/disinfecting.
• BB Court 1 – singles games only for table tennis, badminton or other game, individuals hitting volleyball, cardio exercises.
• BB Court 2 – individual basketball shooting only, individuals hitting volleyballs, cardio exercises, no games or competitions,
• Academic study rooms – study rooms are limited to no more than 2 people at any time.
• Restrictions on space rental or reservations for UHCL entities, including student organizations. Safety measures will be required for social distancing and other health and safety concerns.

Suspension of Services and Programs

• Reduced hours of Member Services Desk.
• No check-out equipment.
• No towel service (both workout and shower towel services).
• No day-use lockers are available for use in the locker rooms but some day-use lockers will be available in the corridors on the first and second floors.
• No regular water fountains are not available (bottle fill stations are available).
• No rentals or reservations of space are allowed by non-UHCL entities.

Facility Reservations and Rental Services

• Restrictions on space rental or reservations for UHCL entities, including student organizations. Safety measures will be required for social distancing and other health and safety concerns.
• All requests for space rental or reservation must be processed using new UHCL guidelines and must be approved through the university process.
• Reservations that cannot conform to follow social distancing guidelines from the CDC will not be accepted.
• Reservations involving sports practice will not be accepted until further notice.
• Reservations involving a majority or primary use for minors will not be accepted until further notice.

 

Patron Personal Protective Equipment Recommendations and Requirements

Mask Usage in the RWC

• The following section outlines the requirements and recommendations for patrons in regards to personal protective equipment.
• Failure to follow required patron personal protective equipment may result in your inability to utilize the RWC or in your removal from the RWC for non-compliance.
• UHCL requirement for wearing a mask is not optional and is not subject to interpretation.
• Mask usage
  • Required mask usage:
    • Masks or face covering at all times from the time you enter the facility until you exit the facility.
    • The mask must cover both mouth and nose. his includes lobby space and academic wings of the RWC.
    • Refer to CDC for reasons to wear a mask.
  • Exceptions for mask usage:
    • While physically on cardio equipment.
    • While physically running on the track.
    • While performing high intensity cardio or similar physical activity. Strength training does not constitute high intensity cardio workouts.
• Other RECOMMENDED Personal Protective Equipment for Patrons
  • Mask at all times.
  • Gloves that cover the hand from fingertip to wrist.
  • Wash hands frequently using hand sanitizer or warm water/soap.
  • Workout towel or large towel to place on equipment when in use.
  • Minimize touching your face while working out.

Health and Safety Protocols

Personal hygiene recommendations

• All staff and patrons are highly encouraged to follow CDC and UHCL recommendations for personal hygiene.
• Hand sanitizer is located throughout the facility.
• Minimize any contact with your face while working out.
• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.
• Wipe down all equipment, handles, grips, bars, and other surfaces before and after use.
• It is recommended that patrons bring their own workout towel or large towel to cover equipment while in use. Towels will not be provided by the RWC until further notice.

Social Distancing Measures

• Shared responsibility
  • Patrons will be asked to maintain, to the best of their ability, social distancing guidelines recommended by the CDC, State of Texas, and UHCL. This means keeping six feet between themselves and other patrons.
  • When moving throughout the RWC, your awareness of other patrons and willingness to alter your workout plans or find alternative locations for some activities will be necessary.
• Equipment layout changes and equipment/space closure
  • RWC staff has changed the layout of current fitness equipment to meet social distancing guidelines and make more equipment available.
  • If equipment is marked as “offline,” is taped for closure, or has been moved to a location off the main fitness floors, please do not use that equipment.
  • Patrons should not be on adjacent pieces of equipment at the same time if possible.
  • Patrons should maintain social distancing while using the track. Patrons may not walk, jog or run side by side.
  • Please be aware of and mindful of other patrons when conducting your workout. Be courteous and be willing to adjust your workout as needed.

RWC Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols

Cleaning Protocols and Expectations…A Shared Responsibility

• Maintaining the cleanliness of the RWC is a responsibility of not only the RWC staff and UHCL custodial services, but also rests on our patrons taking an active role.
• While our staff will do everything possible to clean and disinfect equipment and supplies, patrons should always take responsibility and pick up after themselves, ensure they keep personal items with them at all times, and clean equipment before and after use.
• All patrons should assume that equipment was not wiped down properly from a previous user and minimize contact with as many items or surfaces as possible.

Expectations of all patrons

• All patrons are highly encouraged to use the provided gym wipes to clean and disinfect equipment both before and immediately after use. Gym wipes are provided throughout the facility.
• If there is a situation that a gym wipe stand is empty, please notify our staff immediately. If you witness other patrons not taking care of their responsibility, please notify our staff to handle the situation. 

Expectations of All RWC staff

• RWC staff will perform cleaning and sanitizing protocols during all operational hours. This includes the use of different cleaning solutions. Our staff expectations are to clean equipment as needed, perform disinfecting protocols throughout the day at the discretion of the RWC Operations Manager and Admin, and ensure that patrons have the supplies they need.
• We do not expect our staff to clean non-stop or to clean every piece of equipment that a patron touches during their visit.
• RWC staff will also be cleaning frequently touched surfaces on a regular basis, such as door handles, rails, restroom facilities.
• Disinfecting of equipment and spaces will occur throughout the day. Look for yellow caution tape to signify a space is closed for disinfecting.

UHCL custodial staff

• Custodial staff will perform regular custodial duties throughout the day of all public spaces within the RWC and apply a disinfecting mist cleaning on a nightly basis. This same disinfecting mist solution could be used during the day during an extended closure period. 

Solutions being used for cleaning and disinfecting purposes

• Cleaning Solutions
  • Simple Green - cleaner and degreaser on all surfaces.
  • Bleach - rarely used, but mostly on hard surfaces
  • Fabuloso - floors, bathrooms
• Disinfecting Solutions
  • Oxivir - medical grade disinfectant, used on all surfaces
  • Bleach - rarely used, but mostly on hard surfaces
  • Terminator - used nightly in a misting machine on all spaces and equipment.

   

Enrolled Student Access

• The Recreation and Wellness Center dedicated fee provides access to use the RWC for open recreation, special events, and other free programming opportunities.
• All enrolled students, regardless of which format of classes a student has decided to take will have access to the RWC during the semester during the times listed in our hours of operation for All Active Members.
• For specific information about the dedicated student fee, please review the detailed reopening guidelines document.

Non-Student Memberships

Current active non-student members:

• Will have access to the RWC during all designated operating hours based on the Hours of Operation which are determined by the phase of reopening.
• The new non-student membership rate of $25/month will go into effect starting September 1, 2020 (EXCLUDES ENHI MEMBERSHIPS).
• For non-student members who were active members during Summer 2020, regardless of your method of payment (payroll deduction or recurring credit card payments), your account will be deactivated before August 15, 2020 to ensure you are not charged if you do not want to continue your membership. Your access to the RWC will be available through any open period of August 2020 at no cost and payments for monthly memberships will not begin until September 15, 2020.
• No cancellation fees will be charged if you choose to cancel your membership through December 31 , 2020.
• Email communications will be sent with additional information related to new rates and cancellation process.

Potential new members

• No free trial memberships will be available until further notice.
• To simplify non-student memberships and due to the financial impact of COVID-19, we have lowered all non-student memberships to be $25/month.
• Day passes can be purchased by any individual for $5/day to access the facility. No free preview access will be provided until further notice.
• Individuals who are interested in becoming members of the Recreation and Wellness Center will be able to purchase full membership once we reopen prior to or during Fall 2020.
• New memberships can be purchased in-person during operational hours or online at rwconnect.

ENHI members, patrons 55 years or older and Active UHCL employee members:

• Will have access to the RWC during all normal operating hours.
• Any potential new ENHI members should contact ENHI administration before registering by visiting the ENHI website or emailing enhi@uhcl.edu.

Suspension of monthly membership fees

• In the event the RWC should close again during the fall semester, monthly memberships will be suspended if it is prior to the 15th of the month.
• Should the closure occur after the 15th of a month, email communications will be sent out to all non-student patrons with information related to the process for refunds, extension of membership, or cancellations. We ask that patrons respond directly to the email communications with required information.

Parking at UHCL

• EFFECTIVE FALL 2020: UHCL Parking Services has created a new Campus Recreation and Wellness Non-Student Member parking pass for the same cost as UHCL students. This pass is available for purchase on a semester or annual basis and is NOT part of a membership to the RWC.
• A parking kiosk is located directly across from the east entrance of the RWC for hourly or daily parking passes.
• Parking violations will be enforced if you park illegally or in an area you are not allowed to park.
• Parking pass violations will begin on September 21, 2020.

Minors Age 17 years and under

• 16 and 17 years old:
  • May not access the RWC without a paid membership or day pass.
  • May purchase a full membership and will have access to all RWC spaces.
  • The parent or legal guardian must be present to purchase a membership or day pass.
  • The parent or legal guardian must be present in the RWC at all times and parent or legal guardian does not have to be a member but must remain in the facility at all times.
• 5 to 15 years old:
  • Will not be allowed to access the RWC until further notice.
  • No new minor dependent memberships will be sold.
  • Any current active dependent memberships will continue to be suspended and not charged until we allow minor access to the RWC.
• Infant to 4 years old:
  • May be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian while in the facility during operational hours.
  • Are restricted to the track or a court space but must be in a stroller or within arms reach of a parent. May not be in any fitness zone area or waiting near a fitness zone while the parent or legal guardian is working out.
  • May not be held or carried by the parent or legal guardian while using fitness equipment.

Guest passes

• Will not be allowed until further notice.
• Non-UHCL individuals can purchase full memberships.

Day Passes ($5)

• Will be sold to non-members and are valid for the calendar date of the purchase.
• Day passes for minors age 16 and 17 can only be purchased by a parent or legal guardian and that parent or legal guardian must be present in the RWC at all times with the minor.
• Day passes cannot be purchased for minors ages 5-15.

 

Down Dog Yoga

• The Down Dog has multiple apps available and is free for UHCL students and employees until January 1, 2021.
• How to get started with Down Dog:
  1. Go to downdogapp.com to download the apps for smartphone or tablet or to use the apps on the web. There are multiple apps for different products by Down Dog, so pick the ones that work for you!!
     • Yoga app
     • HIIT app
     • Barre app
     • 7 Minute app
     • Prenatal Yoga app
     • Beginner yoga app
  2. Open any of the apps and sign up with your UHCL email and  create a password.
  3. That's it! You're ready to practice!

 

FAQ – General Access to RWC

• Do I have to make a reservation to show up?
  • Yes, please call 281-283-2330 to make your reservation for the current day or the next business day. Reservations will be recorded by our staff and we recommend you show up 5 minutes prior to your reservation time to complete your wellness check and get in the queue line for access.
  • Members may only make one reservation per day until further notice.
  • Reservations will not be accepted as a daily recurring reservation, so you can’t reserve the same time every day for weeks at a time with one call.
  • There may still be a delay for your access to the RWC if we are at capacity.
  • Your reservation does not mean you will have access to all spaces or equipment as there is capacity maximums in specific spaces. We ask that you adjust your workout plans accordingly to help us maintain a safe and healthy experience for all.
• Is there a time limit for how long I can be in the facility?
  • Yes, we will enforce a one-hour time limit for members if a queue line is present. We do not expect to enforce this very often.
  • If a queue line is present, we will notify patrons who have been in the facility the longest and make an announcement giving them five minutes to finish their workout and exit the facility.
• What do I need to bring with me to the RWC?
  • Your UHCL ID or member ID card or know your ID number to provide to our staff.
  • Water bottle. Water fountains are closed but bottle fill stations are available.
  • Workout towel or large towel to cover equipment. RWC will not provide workout or shower towels until further notice.
  • Day-use locker usage is limited, so do not bring bags or lots of loose items…if it doesn’t fit in your pocket or in a drink holder, leave it at home or in your vehicle.
  • Locker rentals are available and can be purchased in-person at our Member Services desk. All rental lockers will be located in the men’s or women’s locker rooms.
  • We will allow small bags to be carried with patrons throughout the facility but it must be placed in an area where it will not impede traffic or create a possible tripping hazard.
  • We recommend that patrons leave all non-essential personal items at your residence or your vehicle.
  • Campus Recreation and Wellness is not responsible for storage of personal items while patrons work out.
• What if I used my one-hour reservation to workout and I want to go longer but had to leave because of the facility being at capacity. Can I make a second reservation for that day?
  • Yes and no.
  • Due to the limited capacity and reduced hours, we want to ensure we can serve as many members as possible.
  • Only one reservation can be accepted per member, per day.
  • If we are not at capacity and if there is no queue line, then we will not enforce the one-hour time limit. Again, we do not expect to have to enforce this very often.
  • If you chose to do so, you could get in line for stand-by access and if the capacity allows for you to remain in the RWC or be re-admitted, you could potentially get additional time.

FAQ – UHCL Student Access

• I am enrolled in only online classes for the Fall semester. Do I have access to the RWC?
  • Yes, you have access to the RWC for the fall 2020 semester.
• I am not enrolled in any classes for the Fall 2020 semester. Do I have access the RWC?
  • Not unless you purchase a continuing student membership.
  • Membership sales begin when the RWC reopens during operational hours or online at rwconnect.
• What if I can only make the hours that the facility is open for ENHI, patrons 55 years or older and UHCL employee members? Can I come during their exclusive time?
  • Effective Tuesday, September 8, we no longer have dedicated time for ENHI, patrons 55+, and UHCL active employee members.
  • We have to go back to Phase 2 of our plan, then we may bring this dedicated time back.
  • No, we will be reviewing data usage for all hours of the facility and make adjustments as best we can, but the hours listed as dedicated for ENHI, patrons 55 years or older, and UHCL employee members are exclusively for them.
  • As we move into different phases of reopening, we hope to expand hours of operation for all members, but the timetable for moving to new phases is fluid and we cannot guarantee when we will expand hours.

FAQ – Personal Items and Lost and Found

• Can I bring a bag into the facility?
  • Day-use locker usage is limited until further notice, so do not bring bags or lots of loose items…if it doesn’t fit in your pocket or in a drink holder, leave it at home or in your vehicle.
  • Locker rentals are available and can be purchased in-person at our Member Services desk. All rental lockers will be located in the men’s or women’s locker rooms.
  • Minimize items you bring with you. We recommend that patrons leave all non-essential personal items at your residence or your vehicle.
  • Campus Recreation and Wellness is not responsible for storage of personal items while patrons work out. Our staff cannot keep items for patrons.
  • We will allow small bags to be carried with patrons throughout the facility but it must be placed in an area where it will not impede traffic or create a possible tripping hazard.
  • Large bags or items cannot be left on the floor in any space. Any bag or item that creates a possible tripping hazard will not be allowed.

• What if I leave something at the RWC? Will I be able to get it from lost and found?
  • Any lost and found valuable items such as electronics or valuables will be kept in the RWC until the end of the day and then taken to UHCL Police for storage and pick-up.
  • Any non-valuable items such as water bottles, towels, apparel, or other similar items will be discarded at the end of the business day. We will not store non-valuables due to sanitation and storage issues.

FAQ – Patron Health and Safety Measures

• Do I have to wear a mask while working out?
  • Please review the chart outlining patron personal protective equipment for when and what items will be required and recommended during our phased reopening.
  • There are no exceptions for general mask usage. There are specific exceptions depending on your activity (on cardio equipment, running on the track, HIIT workouts) but masks must be worn for all other activities.
  • Disposable masks can be provided at the Welcome Desk but this is not a guarantee depending on our stock. Patrons should plan on bringing and wearing their own masks.
  • RWC staff will always be wearing masks while working.
• What if masks are required but I don’t want to wear one?
  • It is each individual’s choice to wear a mask for their own personal protection. However, your choice to not wear a mask when and/or where they are required will also be a choice to not participate or utilize the Recreation and Wellness Center or any programs or events.
  • The RWC staff will provide friendly reminders and communicate as effectively as possible, but if this is a repeated issue with individual patrons, you could be asked to leave the facility.
  • When and where masks are required is not up for individual interpretation or discussion.
• What if I show up without a mask?
  • Patrons should plan on bringing and wearing their own masks.
  • Disposable masks can be provided at the Welcome Desk but this is not a guarantee depending on our stock.
  • If we do not have disposable masks to provide, you will have to find your own.
• Who is responsible for cleaning equipment?
  • Everyone is responsible for cleaning equipment, including RWC members.
  • Please reference the section about cleaning and disinfecting protocols for more info.
  • Members should wipe down equipment with the provided gym wipes before and after use. It is recommended members bring their own workout towel or a large towel to cover equipment while in use.
  • RWC staff will maintain their regular cleaning duties throughout the day and we will be closing down specific areas to disinfect equipment as well. When an area is closed for disinfecting purposes, we will use yellow caution tape and spray everything with Oxivir or bleach solution and allow it to sit for around 10 minutes before wiping it down and reopening the space.
  • UHCL custodial staff will perform cleaning duties after close on a nightly basis and use disinfecting misting machines to clean and disinfect equipment and machines.
• What cleaning solutions are being used to clean and disinfect equipment and areas?
  • The RWC staff will continue to use multiple solutions depending on the space or equipment.
  • For cleaning purposes, diluted Simple Green or Simple Green Pro, Fabuloso, or bleach are used for general cleaning purposes on surfaces, door handles, hand rails, padding, etc.
  • For disinfecting purposes, we will use diluted Oxivir, which will be applied to fitness equipment surfaces when we close off spaces or equipment. The solution needs around 10 minutes to work effectively so we will use yellow caution tape to visibly close an area while this is occurring.
  • Gym wipes are provided throughout the facility and are rated to kill germs and viruses.
  • Custodial staff will use a disinfecting misting agent on a nightly basis after close, which is a one stop disinfectant germicidal detergent.
• Do we have to follow social distancing guidelines while working out?
  • Yes, specific space capacities will be listed in each area and RWC staff will enforce those at all times.
  • Please references the chart outlining space specific details or the section outlining court specific activities.
  • Equipment has been re-arranged to provide the social distancing recommendations throughout the facility and where we can’t move equipment, alternating pieces will be taken offline or closed off from usage.
  • While moving throughout the facility, please be aware of those around you and do your best to maintain social distancing as much as possible.
    Partner workouts are allowed following the guidelines stated in the section with space specific information.
  • Any spotting assistance on lifts should be requested from RWC staff only.
  • While using the track, no side by side walking, jogging or running will be allowed.
• How should I address another member who isn’t following social distancing guidelines, not following requirements for patron PPE or not wiping down their equipment after use?
  • Please bring any concerns or issues related to other members to our RWC staff. Allow our staff the opportunity to address the concern or issue before you do anything.
  • Please do not try to enforce policies as a patron.

FAQ – Wellness Checks

• Do I have to do anything new to get into the RWC?
  • Yes. we are requiring patrons to make reservations by calling the
  • Welcome Desk at 281-283-2330 for the current day or the next business day.
  • When you arrive for your workout, you will have to pass a wellness check in the lobby before accessing the RWC. You will be asked four yes/no questions and then have your temperature taken with an infrared, contactless thermometer. If your temperature reads 100.00 or higher, you will not be allowed to enter the RWC and must self-quarantine for 72 hours.
  • You may have to wait in a queue line for access after your wellness check if the facility is at capacity. That queue line will be in the lobby of the RWC, but if we are at capacity in the lobby you may have to wait outside or in your vehicle.
• What if I don’t want to have my temperature taken at the Wellness Check?
  • Wellness checks are required by UHCL administration and, therefore, you would be choosing not to utilize the RWC for that day.
  • The wellness check is four yes/no questions and a temperature check with an infrared, contactless thermometer.
  • Wellness checks will be required every time you use the facility, so expect to do it every time you attend the RWC and plan accordingly.
  • Personal health information is not being recorded nor will it be shared with any other individual.
  • If your temperature is above 100.00, your name will be provided to the UHCL Health Clinic for possible follow-up by Health Clinic staff or you will be referred to contacting them for additional information.

FAQ – Non-Student Memberships

• Can I bring a friend with me who is not a member?
  • Yes, but not for free.
  • Due to reduced hours and capacity limitations, our priority is to provide space for the UHCL students and our active members.
  • Guest passes, free trial memberships, and free preview access events are all suspended until further notice.
  • Membership sales will be available upon reopening of the facility with new rates available for all non-student members.
  • Day passes will be sold for $5/day during operational hours for non-member access.
• What if I am a non-student member and want to cancel my membership?
  • Before you decide to cancel, please know that new membership rates of $25/month will begin September 1, 2020 for all non-student memberships (excludes ENHI memberships).
  • In the event that the RWC must close again, non-student patrons will have the option to extend their membership for a longer period of time. Member Services staff will be in contact with all non-student members to discuss options and arrangements.
  • If you would still like to cancel, complete the online form located on our Member Services page, second to last tab from the bottom.
  • No cancellation fees will be charged from June 1 through December 31, 2020.
• Can minors come into the facility?
  • Please reference the section about non-student membership outlining minor access to the RWC for the coming weeks/months.
  • 16-17 years old – yes, but only if they have an active membership and a parent or legal guardian must be in the facility at all times.
  • 5-15 years old – no, not at this time.
  • Infant to 4 years old – yes, but must be in a stroller or within arm’s reach at all times and can only be on court space or track. Cannot be in any fitness zone or on any fitness equipment.

FAQ – Dedicated Student Fees

• I am enrolled in only online classes. Do I get a refund or reimbursement for my dedicated student fee?
  • No.
  • The dedicated student fee is a required fee of the university.
  • Any decisions regarding refunds or reimbursements, partial fees, or outright waiving of the fee is a decision made by UHCL administration.
• I don’t live near campus and am taking only online classes. Do I get my dedicated fee waived, reduced, or reimbursed?
  • No.
  • The dedicated student fee is a required fee of the university.
  • Any decisions regarding refunds or reimbursements, partial fees, or outright waiving of the fee is a decision made by UHCL administration.
• If the RWC closes down, do we get refunds or reimbursements for our dedicated student fee?
  • Any decisions regarding refunds or reimbursements, partial fees, or outright waiving of the fee is a decision made by UHCL administration.

FAQ – Space Specific Questions

• Can we take showers or use locker rooms?
  • Please reference the chart outlining space restrictions, closures or adjustments.
  • Only family changing room showers will be available. Both family changing rooms are located on the first floor of the RWC.
  • Showers in the men's and women's locker rooms are not available until further notice.
  • Shower towel service is not available until further notice.
  • If you currently have a locker rental, your items will be left alone and additional information will be sent to you about clean-outs and/or renewals. Member Services will be in touch with all current renters about options for canceling rental, extending rental, or shipping items if you are no longer in the Houston area.
• I rented a locker before the closure. Do I get a refund for that charge?
  • With the closure, you are entitled to either a full or partial refund or you can choose to extend your locker rental for use after we reopen.
  • Email communications will be sent to all patrons who have rented lockers outlining information regarding refunds or extensions.
  • Member Services will be in touch with all current renters about options for canceling rental, extending rental, or shipping items if you are no longer in the Houston area.
  • For any additional assistance or questions about these refunds, please email campusrecreation@uhcl.edu.
• Can we play team sports like basketball, soccer or volleyball?
  • Please reference the chart outlining space specific details or the section outlining court specific activities.
  • Masks must be worn while shooting baskets, hitting volleyballs, or other non-HIIT-type workouts.
  • Team sports or activities that cannot maintain social distancing guidelines will not be allowed until further notice.
  • Basketball hoops will be down on Court 2 and available for shoot around with a limit of 3 patrons per hoop but no games can be played besides HORSE, around the world, or other shooting contests that players can properly social distance..
  • Volleyballs can be hit by individuals but no net or dedicated space will be assigned for VB specific related activities.
  • Patrons must bring their own basketball or volleyball if they wish to shoot or hit.
  • Soccer will not be allowed on either hardwood court and the MAC gym will be closed until further notice.
• Can we play individual sports like badminton, table tennis, or pickleball?
  • Yes, you must bring your own equipment until further notice because we will not check out any equipment.
  • Masks must be worn while playing table tennis, badminton, or pickleball.
  • Please reference the chart outlining space specific details or the section outlining court specific activities.
• Are the Delta Tennis Courts, Delta Basketball Courts open for use?
  • Yes, the tennis courts are available to use, but remain locked for safety reasons.
  • If you want to use the Tennis Courts or the outdoor basketball courts, you can call UHCL PD at 281-283-2222 and ask that an officer come and unlock them. You will need to provide proof of UHCL affiliation for the tennis courts to be unlocked by the UHCL police.
• I have a group that wants to reserve space for an event. Can we make reservations for facility space?
  • Depends on what type of group it is and which phase of reopening we are in.
  • Please reference the section about programming, activity, and event for specific about reservations and rentals.
  • Any events that are sports related or cannot conform to social distancing guidelines will not be accepted until further notice.
• Is the punching bag going to be available?
  • No, we will be removing the punching bag until further notice to utilize that space for strength equipment.
• Will the outdoor fitness zone be available?
  • No, due to the inability to maintain adequate supervision of the space coupled with the increasing temperature outside and safety protocols in place for heat index, we will keep the outdoor fitness zone closed until further notice.

FAQ – Programs and Services

• Can I check out recreational or fitness items from the equipment check out desk?
  • Recreational and fitness equipment will not be checked out until further notice.
  • We plan to start providing that equipment starting in Phase 4, but that is subject to change.
  • Patrons can bring their own equipment and use it for recreational or fitness needs. Patrons will need to disinfect their own equipment before and after use.
• Will Intramural Sports actually be playing team sports?
  • Probably not for a while.
    We will be hosting some very small events which can be done with social distancing and other health and safety measures.
  • There are guidelines from the State of Texas regarding sports, but we will be conservative with any team sport opportunities.
  • Contact campusrecreation@uhcl.edu to get more information or to get in touch with our Rec Sports staff.
• Will Sport Clubs be active?
  • It depends on the club.
  • Clubs will be creating risk management plans along with guidelines for health and safety measures before beginning any meetings, practices, or events.
  • Contact campusrecreation@uhcl.edu to get more information or to get in touch with our Rec Sports staff.
• Will group fitness be hosting classes in the fall?
  • The schedule for group fitness classes is posted.
  • All group fitness classes will be FREE for the fall 2020 semester.
  • All patrons must still register online through rwconnect for the classes they want to attend. Once you register, you will receive the link for the streaming class.
  • Most in-person classes will be provided virtually or conducted with very reduced capacity in larger, more wide-open space in the RWC or outdoors.
  • Contact campusrecreation@uhcl.edu to get more information or to get in touch with our fitness staff.
• Can I purchase personal training packages?
  • Yes.
  • Packages can be purchased online at rwconnect. 
  • Personal training will have options for completely virtual sessions, hybrid sessions of both virtual and in-person, and completely in-person. The decision for in-person sessions is completely up to the patron.
  • There is no time limit on the use of personal training sessions.
  • Any previously purchased sessions can still be conducted.
  • Contact campusrecreation@uhcl.edu to get more information or to get in touch with our fitness staff.

For additional questions or clarification, please email campusrecreation@uhcl.edu and a representative will be in touch as soon as possible.

 

Master Policies for the Department of Campus Recreation and Wellness are designed to create consistency for all patrons, ensure we operate in the safest and healthiest way possible, and provide the "why" for policies. Master Policies cover facility access, apparel,  accountability and disciplinary processes for patrons, space and program specifics, and more.

Please refer to the Reopening Guidelines for policy info related to COVID-19 adjustments. All COVID-19 adjustments supersede Master Policies when they are in conflict.

Any questions, comments or concerns can be sent to campusrecreation@uhcl.edu and representative will contact you with a response.

 

The Recreation and Wellness Center is located on the north side of campus near the Middlebrook Drive and Bayou Road East intersection, near Entrance 3 and parking lot D. The facility is across from the new STEM building and next to the Hunter Hall.

The Recreation and Wellness Center is building 5 on the campus map. A Visitor's Parking kiosk is located directly in front of the east side of the facility near the loop intersection. Once a visitors pass is purchased, visitors may park in Lot D parking spots designated for visitors.

From the Bayou Building: Exit through the north entrance and walk through the Student Services and Classroom Building (SSCB). 

From SSCB: Exit SSCB through the north sliding doors, follow the sidewalk toward Middlebrook Drive. Go past the little gazebo and the construction site on your right. The Center will be on your right; look for the building with blue and green glass and second floor terraces.

 

First Floor

Second Floor

 

• Fitness zones with cardio, free weight, plate loaded, pin-select and Olympic spaces.
• 2 regulation-sized basketball courts. 
  Courts can be converted to two volleyball or three badminton courts.
• Multi-activity court (MAC gym) with dasher walls and protective netting 
  for indoor soccer, floor hockey, basketball, volleyball and other activities.
• 2 multi-purpose rooms used for group fitness classes, meeting space or open recreation.
• 1/8-mile, elevated, 3-lane indoor track.
  Located above multi-activity court and basketball courts.
• Semi-private personal training space.
• Stretching zone, cardio/strength space and two turf functional spaces.
• Men’s and women’s locker rooms.
• Social spaces and student work areas.

Outdoor field spaces include:

• Recreation and Wellness Center's Backyard
  (between the Recreation and Wellness Center and STEM building)
• Delta Complex with one large lit field, four tennis courts and two outdoor basketball courts

Visit Facilities

 

• Biomechanics lab
• Exercise physiology lab
• Motor control lab
• 50- and 40-seat classrooms, group study rooms and faculty suite