Inside the CU Rec Center (Student Recreation Center at CU Boulder)

CU Boulder Map has assembled a detailed guide to the CU rec center that walks new hires, students, and patrons through every corner of the facility. This guide captures the practical information, helpful tips, and the warm, welcoming tone a visitor can expect while touring the Student Recreation Center. The goal is to provide an easy-to-follow reference for navigation, services, programs, and staff roles so anyone using the CU rec center feels confident on their first day and beyond.

How the CU Rec Center Fit’s CU’s Vision

The CU rec center is more than a place to exercise; it’s a student employment hub, program incubator, and a social space that supports wellness and lifelong skills. CU Boulder Map emphasizes that the rec facility aims to develop transferable skills through employment opportunities and volunteer involvement. Staff and student employees at the CU rec center focus on five core competencies: accountability, job knowledge, customer service, interpersonal skills, and communication.

“Our goal as a student employment center is to help you gain skills that will take you further in your careers long after you leave CU.”

Those competencies form the backbone of every interaction and task at the CU rec center. Whether someone is answering questions at the cashier desk, supervising intramurals, or leading a fitness class, those five competencies are the expected standard.

Where to Go At the CU Rec Center

When arriving for the first time at the CU rec center, the main office should be the first stop for hired staff. The main office is where employment paperwork is completed and payroll information is set up. CU Boulder Map recommends returning to the main office for any changes to direct deposit, mailing addresses, or W-2 information.

• Complete hiring paperwork and payroll setup at the main office.
• Ask about facility maps, radio procedures, and the staff chain of command.
• Pick up schedules, uniform guidance, and training session information.

Cashier Desk: Memberships, Payments, and First Impressions

The cashier desk is the hub for enrollment and payment. Patrons visit this desk to purchase memberships, sign up for programs, and ask general questions. The cashier desk staff are the face of the CU rec center and should be prepared to answer routine questions and direct people to the right office or amenity.

Key responsibilities at the cashier desk include:

• Membership enrollment and renewals.
• Processing payments for classes, rentals, and special events.
• Providing printed schedules and facility hours.
• Directing patrons to other offices such as Outdoor Program, Fitness & Wellness, or Checkout.

Weight Room, Systems Room, and Fitness Orientations

The weight room and the systems room house multiple circuits of strength and cardio equipment. Staffed by trained student employees, these areas are the first places many patrons go for workout guidance. The CU rec center offers complimentary fitness orientations for both weight and cardio equipment; patrons need only inquire at the main weight room staff desk to sign up.

• The main systems room contains three full circuits suitable for beginners through advanced users.
• The women’s locker room also contains a full circuit as well as cardio stations.
• Free fitness orientations are available—encourage patrons to sign up if they are new to the equipment.

Outdoor Program: Wilderness Trips, Scuba, and the Challenge Course

The Outdoor Program office sits on the second floor lobby next to the ice rink and coordinates immersive experiences into the Colorado wilderness at affordable prices. The Outdoor Program manages the renowned CU Scuba program and operates a challenge course located east of Williams Village.

The challenge course is not just an adventurous outing; it’s a structured program for team building, leadership development, communication, and trust-building. CU-affiliated groups—students, staff, and recognized campus organizations—can use the course, as can nonprofit groups and school groups from surrounding communities.

Ice Rink: Skating, Hockey, and Rentals

The ice rink at the CU rec center hosts special events and serves as the home ice for four CU hockey teams, intramural hockey, and broomball. The rink is a versatile space available for drop-in skating as well as scheduled rentals.

• Skate rentals (hockey and figure skates) are available during public skate times.
• Drop-in hockey and stick-and-puck sessions typically charge a nominal fee (e.g., $1 for certain sessions).
• Activity schedules for the rink are posted online and at the facility.
• The rink may be rented by the hour, day, or week for special events.

Climbing: Rock Wall and Bouldering

The CU rec center offers both a rock wall and an indoor bouldering wall, providing a range of climbing opportunities. The rock wall is located in the second floor lobby and is typically available for patron use in the evenings during the fall and spring semesters. Membership is required for year-round access to the rock wall, but seasonal and drop-in options may be offered depending on staffing and programming.

• A bouldering wall is available in the general gym for shorter, no-rope climbing.
• Patrons should ask about climbing orientation sessions and safety briefings.
• Climbing programs and events are often listed on the facility’s schedule and website.

Gyms, Courts, and the Indoor Track

The CU rec center is equipped with multiple courts to serve a variety of sports and classes. The general gym, located off the second floor lobby, features three separate courts—one adaptable court for badminton or table tennis and two courts for volleyball. In addition, the expansion gym houses three basketball/volleyball courts and an indoor track runs above the basketball courts.

Some practical orientation details for court and track users:

• The east end of the general gym hosts many fitness and wellness classes.
• Ten laps on the indoor track equals one mile—useful for pacing and workout planning.
• Court reservation procedures are handled through the Checkout department.
• Conference rooms above the tennis courts can be rented for team meetings or group events.

Checkout, Rentals, and Lost & Found

The Checkout desk is the go-to location for borrowing equipment, reserving courts, and turning in items to non-valuable lost & found. Patrons need a Buff card or membership card to borrow equipment from Checkout. Equipment loans are generally free for daily use.

• Checkout processes court reservations and manages non-valuable lost items like clothes and shoes.
• Valuable found items (phones, keys, electronics) are typically turned into Facilities Supervisor or Lost & Found for safekeeping.
• Encourage patrons to bring their Buff card to facilitate borrowing and access.

Racquet Sports and Club Sports Offices

There are five racquetball courts located along the main hallway opposite Checkout, with entrance via the basement level. Reservations for these courts and other court-based activities are taken at Checkout. The club sports offices are located nearby and coordinate over 30 varsity-level club teams that compete with other colleges.

• Club sports participants must be full fee-paying CU Boulder students.
• Club sports include rowing, hockey, and many other competitive programs organized by student leaders.
• Rowing is unique: Rackaball Court 1 has been converted into a rowing room, primarily used by the club crew team but available during open hours for anyone to use erg machines.

Pools and Aquatics

The aquatics complex includes three main pools: the dive well, the competition pool, and the Claire Small Pool. Lap swimming is generally available whenever the CU rec center is open, though pools typically close at least one hour before the rest of the facility closes. Program schedules for lap swim, lessons, and swim team practices are posted and updated regularly.

• Check posted schedules for lap swim lanes, lifeguard coverage, and master swim sessions.
• Aquatics programming may include lessons, competitive training, and recreational swim times.
• Patrons should follow pool rules and lifeguard directions for safety.

Childcare, Mat Room, and Gender Neutral Facilities

The CU rec center supports families by providing on-site childcare for children ages 6 months to 8 years while parents use the facility. Childcare is affordable and staffed by trained caregivers—CU Boulder Map notes a typical cost of $2 per hour. The mat room is used for martial arts and other small-group fitness classes and is conveniently located near the Systems Room.

Accessibility and inclusivity are supported by a Gender Neutral Locker Room along the hallway to the Cycle Studio. Lockers in this space are available for daily use or rental and include showers and restroom facilities.

• Childcare location and hours are posted—check the website or call the front desk.
• The mat room supports martial arts, tumbling, and other mat-based activities.
• Gender neutral locker rooms enhance privacy and accessibility for all patrons.

Cycle Studio and Class-Only Spaces

The cycle studio at the CU rec center is reserved for organized cycling classes and is not open for general recreational use. Many fitness and wellness classes—such as aerobics, yoga, cycling, tennis, and swimming—are coordinated through the Fitness & Wellness office located near the indoor track and aerobics rooms. Because the Fitness & Wellness office can be hard to find, CU Boulder Map encourages patrons to walk from the track area for the most direct route.

• Sign up for cycling and studio classes through the Fitness & Wellness office or online schedules.
• Studio spaces and specialty equipment may require pre-registration and fees depending on class type.

Scheduling Spaces and Rentals

The CU rec center is available for reservation by both campus groups and community organizations. Conference rooms on the second floor above the tennis courts are available for rental and may be booked for team meetings, training sessions, or small group activities. Larger spaces, such as the ice rink or gym courts, can be rented by the hour, day, or week for special events.

• The main office scheduler can assist with room rental requests and availability.
• Have a clear plan for setup, cleanup, and occupancy limits when requesting a rental.
• Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak campus seasons.

Staff Roles, Supervision, and Communications

The daily operation of the CU rec center relies on student supervisors and trained staff. The Facilities Supervisor—often abbreviated as FACSoup—is the student supervisor on duty and is effectively the first-line manager for student employees. Radios are available at most stations throughout the facility to contact FACSoup for assistance or questions. FACSoup staff are trained in first aid and should be contacted in the event of injuries or urgent facility problems.

• Know where to find and how to contact FACSoup or supervising staff during a shift.
• Radios and cell phone contact protocols help maintain safety and rapid response.
• FACSoup’s office also houses the lost & found for valuable items and unclaimed Buff cards.

Broken Equipment Protocol and Reporting

Staff should follow a clear protocol when a patron reports broken equipment: walk with the patron to the piece of equipment, determine the issue in detail, and then radio or notify the wait room staff for assistance. This procedure ensures accurate reporting, faster repairs, and better patron service.

1. Walk to the broken equipment with the patron to gather details.
2. Identify model numbers, visible damage, and whether the equipment poses immediate danger.
3. Radio the wait room or Facilities Supervisor to log the issue and request repair.
4. Follow up with the patron regarding expected repair timelines or alternative options.

Intramurals, Seasons, and Participation

Intramural sports are one of the most engaged parts of the cu rec center. The intramural office, located next to the basketball courts, manages seasonal leagues—four seasons across the academic year, with two in fall and two in spring. Registration materials are posted outside the office ahead of registration periods, and both Rec Center members and full fee-paying CU Boulder students are eligible to participate.

• Intramurals include a range of team sports and are a great way to stay active socially.
• Look for registration forms and schedules outside the Intramurals office about a week before signups open.
• Evening hours often see higher demand for intramural matches and pick-up games.

Satellite Facility: Bear Creek Rec Center

In addition to the main CU rec center, there is a satellite facility—Bear Creek Rec Center—located at the base of Williams Village. Bear Creek offers cardio and weight equipment as well as fitness and wellness classes like yoga and aerobics, providing a convenient option for residents of Williams Village and nearby neighborhoods.

Tips for New Hires and Patrons

Familiarity breeds confidence. CU Boulder Map suggests taking a self-guided walk around the facility to locate main entrances, exits, locker rooms, and primary activity zones. New hires should learn radio etiquette, emergency procedures, and where to direct commonly asked questions. Patrons should carry their Buff card, arrive a few minutes early for classes, and sign up for orientations if they are unfamiliar with equipment.

• Walk the building during quieter hours to learn shortcuts and best routes between areas.
• Memorize the location of FACSoup, main office, Checkout, and the cashier desk.
• When in doubt, walk a patron to the place they need or call the appropriate office via radio.

Conclusion: Making the Most of the CU Rec Center

The CU rec center is designed to be welcoming, functional, and educational. It supports student employment, offers a breadth of programs—indoor and outdoor—and provides resources for fitness, recreation, and personal development. Whether someone uses the CU rec center to train for competition, unwind after classes, or develop leadership skills through student employment, the facility is an essential part of campus life. Staff and patrons alike are encouraged to embrace the core competencies of accountability, job knowledge, customer service, interpersonal skills, and communication to keep the CU rec center operating smoothly and safely.

FAQ: Common Questions about the CU Rec Center

Who is eligible to use the CU rec center?

Membership eligibility typically includes enrolled CU Boulder students, faculty and staff, and community members who purchase memberships. Some intramural and club programs require participants to be full fee-paying CU Boulder students. Always check the current membership policies for the most accurate details.

How do patrons borrow equipment?

Patrons can borrow equipment at the Checkout desk with a Buff card or membership card. Equipment loans are generally free for daily use. Non-valuable lost & found items are also kept at Checkout.

What is FACSoup and how can they be contacted?

FACSoup is the Facilities Supervisor or student supervisor on duty—the primary on-site manager for operations and emergencies. Radios located at most stations can be used to contact FACSoup. If working outside the building, FACSoup can be reached by cell phone as per staff protocol.

Are there orientations available for new gym users?

Yes. The weight room staff provides free fitness orientations for both weight and cardio equipment. Patrons should sign up at the main weight room staff desk to schedule these sessions, which are ideal for new or returning exercisers.

Can I rent space or reserve courts at the CU rec center?

Yes. The main office scheduler manages room and facility rentals for both campus-affiliated groups and outside organizations. Court reservations are handled at Checkout. Advance booking is recommended, particularly during peak times on campus.

Is childcare available?

Childcare is available for children ages 6 months to 8 years while parents are using the rec center. The typical cost is around $2 per hour, but patrons should confirm current rates and hours before arrival.

When are the pools open?

The pools are generally open for lap swim and other programming whenever the facility is open, but pools close at least one hour before the rest of the rec center closes. Check the posted schedule for exact lap swim times and lifeguard hours.

How can I get involved in club sports?

Club sports are coordinated through club sport offices along the main hallway near Checkout. There are over 30 competitive sports clubs; participants usually must be full fee-paying CU Boulder students. Interested students should contact the club sport offices for tryouts, schedules, and registration details.

What should I do if a patron reports broken equipment?

Staff members should walk with the patron to the broken equipment, document the specific issue, and radio the wait room staff or Facilities Supervisor for assistance. Quick and detailed reporting helps ensure timely repair and keeps the facility safe.

Are there gender-inclusive facilities?

Yes. The cu rec center includes a Gender Neutral Locker Room with showers and restroom facilities, as well as standard men’s and women’s locker rooms. Lockers can be used for daily free use or rented for a nominal fee.

Where can I find schedules for classes, intramurals, and special events?

Schedules are posted throughout the facility and online. The cashier desk and Checkout can provide printed schedules. For specific class registrations, the Fitness & Wellness office coordinates aerobics, yoga, cycling, and other group classes.

Who manages the Outdoor Program and challenge course?

The Outdoor Program office, located on the second floor lobby next to the ice rink, manages wilderness trips, the CU Scuba program, and the challenge course east of Williams Village. The challenge course supports team-building, leadership, and communication development for CU-affiliated groups and approved community partners.

Final Notes

CU Boulder Map’s assembled portrait of the CU rec center aims to be a practical, approachable, and complete resource for anyone joining the team or using the facility. The cu rec center thrives on engaged student employees, informed patrons, and thoughtful oversight. Take time to walk the halls, learn the locations of key offices, and become familiar with the equipment and program offerings. Remember the simple mantra—staff are working in recreation, so have fun while keeping safety and service at the forefront.