We are thrilled to welcome you back to the Gibbs Recreation Center!
We know you are ready to get back to your workout routine, and have appreciated your patience as we worked to implement many new policies and procedures to ensure that you are able to do so comfortably in a safe, clean space. As has been the case with other buildings on campus, our plan is to reopen the facility in phases, with limitations in occupancy and programming expanding each phase.
How quickly we move through the phases will depend on guidance from the CDC and EPA, the regulatory laws of the state, and the health of our community (both inside and out of the hedges).
As the facility reopens, you can expect to see many changes, including where equipment is located, how spaces are used, and what services are offered. In addition, we will be introducing new technology, stringent cleaning procedures and physical distancing protocols to support the health and wellness of our members and team.
Below is a brief snapshot of some of the changes that we have made. For a comprehensive overview of all the additional measures that we have put in place to safeguard the health of our members and team, please follow this link.
Building Hours
Building hours and Competition Pool hours for Spring 2022 can be found here: Spring 2022 Hours
Equipment Checkout/Towel Service/Water Fountains
In order to maintain effective physical distancing, we have reimagined much of our space, and our gyms and multipurpose rooms have been repurposed for the time being. Equipment check out as well as towel service has resumed. Our water bottle fountains have been replaced with bottle fillers so that patrons can stay hydrated without drinking from a shared source. We encourage everyone to bring their own towel and water bottle with them to the facility.
Locker Room and Locker Rentals
Locker rooms and showers are open. New locker rentals are also available. There are restrooms available on each floor and on the pool deck, and patrons are free to utilize those spaces as needed. Please remain physically distanced while in those spaces.
As always, patrons can still utilize the day-use lockers located throughout the building.
Aquatic Center and Outdoor Spaces
The competition and recreation pools have reopened and lap swim is available. Swimmers needing additional assistance entering and exiting the pool will be assigned the lane with ADA lift.
The Outdoor Training Park is open and available for use. Patrons are asked to respect physical distancing guidelines.
The George R. Brown Tennis Center is open for recreation center members however guests are not permitted. Rice IDs will be required to access the tennis courts.
S.W.E.A.T. and Mind/Body Classes
S.W.E.A.T. and Mind/Body classes will be offered starting 1/24/22 (In-person & virtual options available). For more information, please click here.
Miscellaneous (but relevant) Information
Mask Policy
- Wearing masks as a precaution against the spread of COVID-19 is no longer required anywhere on campus, indoors or outdoors – except in all classrooms, where they are still required. People who are unvaccinated must continue to wear a mask indoors at all times. We do recommend that you always carry a mask with you, and err on the side of caution anytime you’re in a situation where you’re wondering whether you should wear it.
Rice IDs will be required to access the facility.
Gym wipes and hand sanitizer stations are available. While we will be following a strict cleaning schedule, please wipe down any equipment that you use, before and after you use it.
As our reopening is a bit of an unfolding process, you can expect to find up to date information regarding what's available in the facility, and our schedule of classes and programs by continuing to visit our website.
We look forward to seeing you soon!