Fitness and Recreation Center
The Boston University Fitness and Recreation Center (or FitRec) is an athletic facility at Boston University. Built in 2004–2005 to replace the aging and inadequate Case Gym, the FitRec was built on the site of a National Guard Armory, to which there is a nod in the form of an informative plaque, found just west of the building.[1][2]
The $97 million building opened its doors in 2005 as part of the John Hancock Student Village, replacing an aging, outdated gymnasium. Among other things, FitRec boasts an 18,000-square-foot weight and cardio room, a 1/7 mile indoor running track, a climbing wall, a Pro Shop, racquetball and squash courts, two swimming pools, and the lazy river, which is wildly popular among kids and kids at heart. FitRec members also have access fitness and recreation facilities at the Case Center and Track & Tennis Center.
- 6,500 students, faculty, and staff swipe in every day
- 32 club sports, from fencing and rugby to water polo and cricket
- 7,000 participants in FitRec’s intramural sports program
- 100 physical education classes from yoga, aquatics, and equestrian to court sports, emergency response, and martial arts
- 2 summer camps for kids, as well as a program during the academic year, through the Family Recreation program.
- 1 juice bar
Gerald Tsai Jr. Fitness Center
It’s fun to keep fit in our 18,000-square-foot weight training and cardiovascular conditioning area. You’ll find the latest in exercise equipment, from free weights to selectorized weight systems, to treadmills and ellipticals.
Aquatics Center
Two pools, a lazy river, and a whirlpool hot tub create the perfect venue for learning to swim, exercising, swimming laps, improving on your technique, and just plain relaxing.
Barreca Climbing Wall
The 30-foot-tall Barreca Climbing Wall boasts eight top-rope belay stations as well as a 12-foot-high bouldering structure.
Dance Theater
The 225-seat Boston University Dance Theater is a state-of-the-art performance space, equipped with amenities that make it an ideal teaching environment, excellent concert hall, and exceptional facility for special events.
Elevated Running Track
A perfect escape from the New England winters, our 1/7 mile indoor running and walking track is suspended over our 4-Court Gymnasium and Fitness Center. Ideal for the year-round trainer and a great spot for a lunch walk with a colleague, the track is a popular place to be. We also recommend getting up there to see the sun set while looking down Commonwealth Avenue, it’s a beautiful place to run laps! The third floor is also home to stationary bikes, a stretching area with equipment, and speed and heavy bags.
Courts & Gymnasia
The FitRec facility is proud to have ample gymnasium space. With seven courts, you’ll find plenty of places to play whatever you may want to play. The 3-Court Gymnasium located on Lower Level 1 is ideal for indoor soccer and floor hockey, as well as basketball and badminton. The 4-Court Gymnasium is an impressive space, ideal for basketball and volleyball, and is located on the second floor. All of the courts can be divided for added flexibility and programming.
Multipurpose Fitness Studios
Most of our group exercises classes find a home in one of our multipurpose fitness studios, located throughout the facility. We have spaces specifically suited for dance, yoga, aerobics, Pilates, martial arts, and more. In addition, we have a group cycling studio.
Racquetball & Squash Courts
For the court sports enthusiasts, the FitRec facility boasts three racquetball and three international squash courts on Lower Level 2. FitRec members can reserve space time on a first-come, first-served basis. Instructional classes are also offered each semester that are ideal for everyone from beginners to experienced players looking to improve their technique.
Pro Shop
Located on Lower Level 1, the Pro Shop has all of the necessary items for your workout needs. Choose from the latest styles in BU gear to a wide selection of aquatic, court sports, and general fitness equipment. This is where you’ll exchange your towels if you are enrolled in towel service, and where you’ll pick up a lock rental.
Healthy Blends
Looking for a post-workout snack or a place to relax after your group exercise class? Healthy Blends, located on the first floor, has a variety of healthy food items and a comfortable seating area. Grab a smoothie after your cycle class, or a sandwich on your way to class, or refuel quickly with an energy bar or some fruit.
References
- ↑ B.U. Bridge: Boston University community's weekly newspaper
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