Frequently Asked Questions and Things You Need to Know
Browse frequently asked questions by General Questions, Classes and Programs, and Club Sports.
General Questions
What do I need to do to access FitRec?
FitRec access is included for all full-time undergraduate and graduate students. You will need to fill out your student waiver before your first visit and bring your Terrier Card to swipe in.
How do I sign up for a Physical Education (PDP) course?
Full-time undergraduate and graduate students can register for a PDP course here. Students may take up to one course per semester for free. Some PDP classes have a textbook, lab and/or certification fee that can be paid on the FitRec website.
Do I need to pay for PDP classes?
You may take one PDP class for free each semester.
Are there lockers where I can safely store my belongings while at FitRec?
There are several options when it comes to lockers. First, there are day lockers located on almost every floor of the building. Some of these have set-your-own code locks already on them, while others allow you to bring your own lock or rent one from the Pro Shop (free with your ID) on Lower Level 1. If you wish to leave your workout items at FitRec, you can set up a monthly day locker rental (sign up at the Pro Shop).
Where can I shower after exercising at FitRec?
For your convenience, there are locker rooms located on three different levels of FitRec. These may require an access code, which can be obtained at the Pro Shop or Member Services desk. Please remember no cell phone use in the locker rooms.
Classes and Programs
Can I use the climbing wall if I have never climbed before?
Yes! We have designated Open Rec hours every day which you can find on our website. All you need is a pair of climbing shoes which can be rented at the Pro Shop. From there, our staff will give you an orientation of everything you need to know to get started. We also offer beginner climbing classes including Learn to Belay, which you can find here.
What kind of outdoor trips are offered to students? Do you need experience?
We offer a range of outdoor trips, depending on the season, including sunset kayaking, stand up paddle board yoga, climbing, hiking, camping, skiing, snowboarding and more. No experience is necessary on the majority of our trips (unless otherwise stated). You can leave your safety in the hands of our skilled trip leaders who are all certified in Wilderness First Aid.
I’ve never studied dance before. Are there any dance classes I can take?
Yes! We have ballet, jazz, modern, ballroom, CardioJazz Funk, Pilates, and improv classes open to beginners!
I’ve studied dance most of my life. Will I be able to continue training and performing at a high level?
Yes! We have multiple levels of all dance techniques. You choose the class and level that suits you. Check out all the dance groups on campus at bu.edu/sao The largest and oldest group on campus is Dance Theatre Group, advised by several of the dance faculty.
Do you offer indoor tennis classes?
Yes! Typically, we offer indoor tennis classes at the Boston University Track and Tennis Center, 100 Ashford Street. Students may register for PDP classes here or recreational tennis classes here.
Where do I find yoga classes?
We have a full range of yoga classes. There is an option to take yoga either as a weekly PDP class or on a drop-in basis as part of the FitPass. Students may register for PDPs here and the FitPass schedule can be found here.
When can I swim?
BU students can use the Competition Pool for swimming laps during our posted open rec swim hours for the Competition Pool. BU students are also able to use the Recreational Pool, Lazy River, or Spa during our posted open rec swim hours for the Recreational Pool.
How long are the lanes in the Competition Pool?
25 yards
What should I wear/bring with me to swim?
Swim cap, goggles, and appropriate swim attire. Appropriate swim attire includes board shorts, swim trunks, one-piece swimsuits, rash guards or surf wear, swim jammers or briefs, and religious swimwear including burkinis. We do not permit athletic shorts, t-shirts/jerseys, sports bras, underwear, jackets/hoodies, compression pants or shirts, denim, khakis, sweat pants, or non-swim head covers.
Do you offer swim lessons?
Yes, we offer group classes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced swimmers. We also have a group workout swim team (Masters Swim), which students can join.
What is the FitPass?
FitPass is a pass that allows you access to group exercise and yoga classes at FitRec. It is separate from your student membership. We feature classes such as HIIT, spinning, barre, Zumba and all kinds of yoga.
Do you have a group exercise schedule?
We have weekly classes that are offered on our FitPass. Classes are offered in the morning and evening.
Where do I find exercise bands, ab rollers, or ankle weights?
Students can check out these items at the fitness attendant desks located on the first and the second floors.
Where do I get more information on personal training?
We have many options for personal training including program design, fitness assessment, small group personal training, nutrition services, and more.
Where are the cardio machines located?
A wide variety of cardio machines are located on the first and second floors, third floor track, and on the lower level.
Where are the punching bags located?
Punching bags are located on the third floor track area. Gloves can be signed out at the Pro Shop.
Club Sports
What is the best way to find out more information, such as tryouts, about a club that I am interested in?
All club sports have a unique webpage on the FitRec website with links to their social media and email addresses of team officers.
What is the difference between Club Sports and Intramural Sports?
Intramural sports all take place on campus. Teams consist of a group of current BU students, faculty, and staff and take place on campus. Each semester, 5-6 sports are offered. Each team is scheduled for four games plus playoffs if they qualify. The winning team receives the coveted BU Intramurals t-shirt as their prize. Club sports are more competitive and involve competing against schools all across New England, and in some cases, nation-wide. Teams practice 2-3 times per week and some teams have tryouts.
Is there a fee to participate in Club Sports?
Yes, our program requires each club sport to charge dues. This is a normal practice nationwide. The price is different for each of our 30+ club sports. Dues can range from less than $50 to up to a couple of $100s based on the sport. Your dues money goes to travel expenses, jerseys, league entry fees, etc.
Is there somewhere to store my equipment on campus other than my dorm room?
Most clubs have team storage in some form. Each club has a different capacity to store personal items based on the size of the equipment and the building in which they practice.