University of Pittsburgh Campus Rec Centers: Definitively Ranked

Pitt may cost an arm and a leg in tuition, but by the standards of facilities it provides the students well outweighs the cost, at least most of the time. The university has a plethora of options for promoting healthy living, ranging from racquetball courts, pools, weight rooms, and a wide variety of group fitness classes even optional for credit. The rec center staff additionally has certified trainers where you can pay for a personalized fitness plan to be coached through.

With so many options, finding the facility of your choice may seem overwhelming. I’ve attached hours for all of the facilities, which you should take advantage of, because you are paying for them! As a senior member of the Barbell Club (which is totally cool, and you should definitely join), I feel more than capable of making the following definitive rankings:

Baierl Recreation Center:

Baierl is perfect for the modern gym goer. It has a wide variety of options for use such as powerlifting, weight training, cardio, and crossfit. Baierl is the newest of all the campus recreation centers and therefore is constantly being renovated with new equipment brought in. Since it is the newest and by far nicest gym on campus, it is also frequently the most busy. If you are looking for a quick and simple workout, this may not be the place for you.

Trees Hall:

Trees hall is located on the very top of cardiac hill, behind the Fitzgerald field house, where the volleyball team plays. Trees is home to many physical education classes, and is a much older institution on campus, which is evident upon entering the weight room there. It feels like walking into a dungeon, and has quite the grungy, inner-city feel to it. Some people thrive in this environment, but be forewarned the heat in this gym is as hardcore as its members. There are also some mixed martial arts rooms with mats for fighting and bags for punching, if you find yourself with a lot of pent up aggression after a calc class. The reason I keep Trees so high on this list is because the pool there is absolutely incredible. Swimming is a great option for exercise, and Trees is a top notch facility for this. Channel your inner mermaid or Michael Phelps, whichever you prefer.

Bellefield Hall:

Honestly, the only thing I know people use this for is the indoor basketball court for some pick-up games with their friends. It reminds me of the gym at my old catholic elementary school that has been exactly the same since before I was born. Reminisce on your more athletic days here and challenge your friends since we’re all not talented enough to play D1 ball.

Campus Housing Gyms:

If you’re into cardio and the walk up the hill just doesn’t seem like your thing, Campus Housing workout facilities are for you. Maybe you’re really regretting that last cookie from Market, or need to blow of some steam quickly. Either way, these tiny little hotel-like gyms will do the trick. Ill-equipped and very small, these may not be the most ideal

spots for you to do your insta-inspired workouts from your favorite fitspo.