This year has ushered in many changes, including how members can safely exercise at gym facilities like the University’s two locations—the Patti and Allan Herbert Wellness Center on the Coral Gables Campus and UHealth Fitness and Wellness Center on the Medical Campus. The UHealth facility has been open since September to University faculty, staff, and students. During the fall semester, University students enjoyed the Herbert Wellness Center, and as of this week, faculty and staff members who have an active membership can make a reservation to use the space. Here’s what you need to know before you go.
Online reservations are required to enter the UHealth facility, which helps the team track capacity and ensure that the center is never crowded. The Herbert Wellness Center requires a reservation to enter the fitness room—this policy takes effect starting Monday, Nov. 30. Additionally, plexiglass has been installed throughout and equipment rearranged to allow for an eight- to 10-foot distance between users. Members can reserve time slots at either facility using the online portal. To get started, create an account. Learn more about making a reservation at the UHealth facility and Herbert Wellness Center.
What should I bring with me?
Masks must be worn by all patrons while inside the wellness centers, especially during workouts. Note that face shields, neck gaiters or buffs, masks with valves, and masks that are open at the bottom (i.e. bandanas) do not qualify. To enter the facility, members should swipe their ’Cane card at the turnstile. Bring a refillable water bottle, a towel, and personal use items, such as mats or balls—if you plan on playing basketball or racquetball. Equipment checkout at both facilities is suspended until further notice. But towels, racquetballs, and squash balls are available for purchase.
Safety first.
The UHealth center is open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday, but closes twice a day to allow the staff to thoroughly clean equipment and any high-touch surfaces. In addition, members should disinfect the equipment before and after use. View the hours of operation and plan your visit accordingly.
At the Herbert Wellness Center, every two-hour reservation slot to use the fitness room is followed by a 30-minute break, which allows the staff time to thoroughly clean the equipment between reservations. A maximum of 90 people are allowed in the fitness room, 40 of which can use the weight area. Group exercise classes will have a capacity limit based on the type of class and its location. Details are available on the UM Wellness app. Members can make one reservation per day up to 72 hours in advance via the Wellness and Recreation portal or by calling the fitness desk at 305-284-8507.
Additionally, all students and employees working at the facilities are required to complete the daily symptom checker and show that they are “good to go” at the start of their work day.
What’s available?
The Herbert Wellness Center is currently offering outdoor and virtual group exercise classes and access to virtual classes through virtual memberships. The winter break group exercise schedule begins Saturday, Nov. 21. Register for classes and services through the UM Wellness app or online registration portal.
The basketball courts at the Herbert Wellness Center are open, but are limited to three players per basket and each participant must bring their own ball. Racquetball and squash courts are open for single-play—or two people per court—but members must bring their own racquet. The indoor pool, saunas, and spa are closed for deck resurfacing.
The UHealth Fitness and Wellness Center members can sign up for virtual personal training and virtual group exercise classes. Additionally, the center has ramped up its online offerings, including virtual 5Ks; meditation breaks; and holiday-themed fitness challenges, which are available to members and non-members. Challenge participants will be entered into a prize drawing! Get details to participate.
Before you visit the UHealth facility, review any updates and become familiar with the Facility Reopening Guide. Per Miami-Dade County guidelines, lockers, showers, sauna, steam room, and whirlpool are unavailable at this time.
What’s new?
On the Coral Gables Campus, a new climbing wall located in Lakeside Village opened to University students only on Oct. 5. Outdoor Adventures memberships for faculty and staff members will be available in spring 2021. Learn more about the new Outdoor Adventures Center.
Looking ahead, the wellness centers will be launching a new-and-improved member portal and app. The UHealth center plans to offer small, in-person group exercise classes starting in January. Stay tuned for updated information.
Browse a list of FAQs about the UHealth Fitness and Wellness Center, and review information about the Herbert Wellness Center before your next visit.
