FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
- General FAQ
- Aquatics FAQ
- Climbing Wall FAQ
- Club Sports FAQ
- Fitness & Wellness FAQ
- Intramurals FAQ
- Outdoor Adventure FAQ
- Membership FAQ
- Facility Reservation FAQ
- What do I need to get into the SRWC?
- What happens if my UA Zip Card does not work at the check-in desk at the SRWC or ONAT?
- What happens if a patron decides not to sign the waiver and take the ID photo?
- Where can I get the most up to date information about what is happening at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center and Wellness Center?
- What is the dress code in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center?
- Do you have equipment to check out?
- I want to work at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. Where do I go to apply?
What do I need to get into the SRWC & ONAT?
To get into the SRWC & ONAT you will need a valid University of Akron ZipCard/ SRWS Membership Card, proper attire, proper shoes, a lock for your locker and a towel if you plan on using the pools, spa or shower.
What happens if my University of Akron Zip Card does not work at the check-in desk at the SRWC or ONAT?
Individuals may be denied access due to:
- Lack of current registration and payment of facility fee
- Possession an old ZipCard and barcode is worn (ZipCard office will replace for free.)
The individual will be allowed to enter the first time this problem occurs but must resolve the issue before returning to the facility a second time. A note will be placed in the individual's file so he or she cannot re-enter without a valid and current Zip Card.
If the individual has a campus SRWC member present to serve as a sponsor, he or she may purchase a guest pass for $10 to access the facility.
What happens if a patron decides not to sign the waiver and take the ID photo?
The Office of General Counsel has made this mandatory for all visitors into the facility. That individual will not be allowed access into the facility.
Where can I get the most up-to-date information about what is happening at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center and Ocasek Natatorium?
The most up-to-date information can be viewed on the Web site.
What is the dress code in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center?
We do have requirements while you are working out for your safety and health. You must wear a shirt with sleeves while working out on the fitness floor, weights or cardio machines and on the stretching mats. You must wear closed toes shoes, no flip flops or sandals. There are no swim suits or bare feet outside the pools and locker room areas.
- Shirts are required throughout the facility; except in pool/ locker room areas.
- Appropriate swim wear is required in pools and spa.
- Swim attire and bare feet are ONLY permitted in locker room and pool areas.
Other Fitness Policies can be found [here].
Do you have equipment to check out?
We do have equipment available to check out while you are using the facility. For more information, click here.
I want to work at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. Where do I go to apply?
We tend to hire students at least one month PRIOR to the semester and school year starting due to in-services and trainings that need to be completed before the building opens for the school year. We do hire throughout the year as openings and budgets allow.
Come learn about employment opportunities and the application process at our RecWorks information sessions. RecWorks sessions are required prior to application to SRWS and applications will only be accepted from RecWorks attendees.
Registration needs to be completed prior to each RecWorks session in the SRWC information office. You can also register by calling (330) 972-2348 or via email at ede2@uakron.edu. More information here.
- Who can use the pools?
- What programs are offered through the Aquatics?
- Does the Aquatic Department offer swimming lessons?
- When shouldn't I go swimming or bring my child swimming?
- What is the water temperature of the pools?
- How often is the spa cleaned?
- What is the size of the pools?
- How do I find out when the pool will be closed for a special event?
Please see the membership FAQ section for a list of people allowed to use the SRWC and ONAT.
What programs are offered through the Aquatics?
There are many programs that are offered throughout the year. Group swim lessons, private swim lessons, semi-private swim lessons, water safety instructor classes, lifeguarding classes, triathlon training program and many others. Times for open swim are located on our Web site here. There will be information posted at the front desk, in the information office and on the Web site when a program is offered.
Does Aquatics offer swimming lessons?
Swim lessons are offered throughout the year, including summer, for children and adults. You may check out our Web site for information on class offerings here. All of our swim instructors are American Red Cross certified, and our lessons are based on the American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim program. Registration forms and waivers are available online, at the front desk and at various other locations around the Student Recreation and Wellness Center and ONAT. Registration is first-come, first-served, so early registration is recommended. Registration and payments must be made prior to the start of the first class. You are not required to have a membership to take swim lessons.
When shouldn't I go swimming or bring my child swimming?
Please download the health swimming brochure from our swimming lesson page here. It is published by the CDC and provides information on when you or your child should and shouldn't go swimming.
What is the water temperature of the pools?
The temperature is maintained at the following levels:
- ONAT: 80 - 82 degrees
- Leisure Pool: 84 - 86 degrees
- Spa: 100 - 102 degrees
The spa is completely drained and cleaned on the first Monday of every month.
In the event that the spa must be closed at other times, signs will be posted at the front desk and on web as soon as possible for your convenience.
What is the size of the pools?
The ONAT pool is 50 meters long by 25 yards wide. During different times of the year the pool may be set up in 25-yard, 25-meter, or 50-meter lengths, depending upon the type of practice or usage necessary to accommodate the groups using the facility. The Leisure pool has two 25-yard lanes to accommodate lap swimmers.
How do I find out when the Ocasek and leisure pool will be closed for a special event?
During different times of the year our facility is used by various groups to host special events. We will post these dates and times at the front desk and on web at least two weeks ahead of time. During these times we invite you to use the other pool that is available. Closings will be listed on the website here and front desk.
- Do you need experience to climb the wall?
- Who can climb the wall?
- Do I have to fill out a waiver?
- How much does it cost to climb the wall?
- What types of climbing are offered at the wall?
- What is the rental fee for climbing shoes?
- Can a friend who is not a student come climb the wall?
- Can the general public climb the wall?
- How tall is our wall?
- How high can you boulder?
Do you need experience to climb the wall?
NO! Climbing is available to anyone who is willing to try. The friendly and knowledgeable staff will assist new climbers through their first experience.
Any member of the Student Recreation and Wellness Center as well as any undergraduate or graduate student with a valid student ID. Sponsored guest are also permitted to climb at the wall (see below). All climbers must be 18yrs old or older. Climbers under the age of 18 are permitted as part of a scheduled special event.
Do I have to fill out a waiver?
Yes, all individuals who want to climb are required to fill out a waiver. Waivers are provided during your first visit to the wall and can be found online here.
How much does it cost to climb the wall?
There is no fee to climb the wall. The staff will assist all interested climbers through their first few climbing experiences. All necessary equipment is provided free of charge.
What types of climbing are offered at the wall?
Bouldering and top rope climbing are currently available. Sport climbing will be available in the near future.
What is the rental fee for climbing shoes?
Climbing shoes are provided free of charge.
Can a friend who is not a student come climb the wall?
Yes. He or she will need to be 18 years or older and pay the guest fee to access the facility
Can the general public climb the wall?
Only if they are a sponsored guest of a student or member of the recreation facility. They will have to pay the guest fee to access the facility.
Our wall is one of the tallest in the state of Ohio. It is 54 feet high.
Bouldering is permitted to 12 feet, but hands are not permitted above 12 feet.
- What is club sports?
- Where do I find more information for club sports?
- Who can participate in club sports?
- How do I become a member?
- How much does it cost?
- If I would like to form a new club, who do I talk to?
A registered student organization which provide opportunities for students, faculty and staff with similar interests to participate in various sport and recreational activities. Club sports bridge the gap between intramural and intercollegiate athletics by providing competition at specialized levels, participation in tournaments and opportunities to practice. However, there are also recreational and instructional levels as well.
Three Types:
- Recreational - Just for Enjoyment
- Instructional - Teach a skill
- Competitive - Extramural opportunity to compete
Club sports are fun through the Student Recreation and Wellness Center, with the help of the Club Sports Staff. The clubs have the opportunity to apply for allocated money to help run their clubs. However, most of the money comes through fundraising and member dues.
Where do I find out more information about club sports?
The best way to find out about each club it to check out our Web site here, which provides a list of all registered clubs as well as an e-mail to contact the club.
Who can participate in club sports?
It is up to the individual club, but club sports are usually open to anyone who is a registered student at the University of Akron.
To become a member of a club, contact the club to find out if it has tryouts or any other new member training.
Each club has its own set dues that each member pays. Majority of the club is run through self-generated funds, so individual members must pay dues as well as doing fundraising events.
If I would like to form a new club, who do I talk to?
Contact the Manager of Club Sports. Contact info can be found here.
- What is the dress code policy while on cardio and strength equipment?
- How are the television stations selected?
- Do you sell headphones for cardiotheatre use?
- Where do I store my personal items since I cannot bring them onto the fitness floor?
- Do you provide towels for patrons?
- How do I use the cardiovascular, selectorize and free weight equipment?
- Where do I find a list of the group exercise classes that are offered and a description of the class formats?
What is the dress code policy while on cardio and strength equipment?
Appropriate attire as established by the University of Akron is required. The following attire applies to all strength and cardiovascular equipment:
- Sleeved shirts that cover back and stomach – no tanks tops, sleeveless shirts, altered shirts or sports bras (only)
- Athletic shorts or pants – no jeans or cargos
- Wear a clean pair of full-toed athletic shoes. Bringing a second pair of athletic shoes is strongly recommended. All footwear must be dry and free of dirt and snow before participating. No boots, flip-flops, Vibrum 5 finger shoes or “Croc” type shoes permitted.
How are the television stations selected?
All stations are selected by a combination of member input and campus cablevision surveys. Members are surveyed on preferred channels each year. We also review the UA cable rating system for the top channels viewed on campus. Once the stations are selected, they will not be altered during the semester.
Do you sell headphones for cardiotheatre use?
You are required to bring in your own headphones for use of the cardiotheater system. Presently we do sell headphones at the SRWC Pro Shop for $5 a pair. Please ask a fitness staff member if you are not sure how to use the cardiotheater system.
Where do I store my personal items since I cannot bring them onto the fitness floor?
All articles of clothing, bags and personal belongings need to be stored in the locker room facility or in the wooden cubbies on the fitness floor and basketball court. We do sell locks in the information office. It is STRONGLY recommended that you lock up your belongings if you use the lockers in the locker rooms.
Do you provide towels for members?
We do not provide towels for members to use. All of the towels on the fitness floor are for equipment cleaning only. Personal use towels are sold in the information office.
How do I use the cardiovascular, selectorize and free weight equipment?
The fitness staff provides free equipment orientations to inform you how to use the equipment on the fitness floor. Please check out the fitness section or our Web site for days and times.
Where do I find a list of the group exercise classes that are offered and a description of the class formats?
The group exercise schedule and class format listings are located at the SRWC front desk, group exercise studios, fitness floor staff member and here.
How many laps around the track equal a mile?
10 laps around the track equals one mile.
Do I need to clean the equipment after use?
Yes. When wiping down equipment we ask that you spray the towel twice and never spray directly onto the equipment. Please be aware of your proximity to others when using the spray bottles. Wiping down the equipment after use is a courteous act towards the next user. Wiping off the strength equipment prolongs the life of the upholstery, which keeps the equipment in operation longer and reduces the risk of equipment to skin disease transmission.
- What is circuit training?
- What are the benefits of circuit training?
- Do I need to stay for the entire circuit time?
- Do I have to sign up to participate?
- How do I get started?
- How often should I perform circuit training?
- May I use the strength equipment for non-circuit use?
Circuit training consists of short bursts of resistance exercise using moderate weight and numerous repetitions. It is quickly followed by another burst of exercise targeting a different muscle group. Little or no rest is needed between exercises because you are switching between muscle groups.
In the ONAT fitness area, there are 13 stations for upper and lower body exercises, mostly utilizing existing selectorized (machine) weights. The circuit is arranged in a line so you can begin anywhere in the circuit. Each exercise is performed for 40 seconds, with 20 seconds to switch machines.
What are the benefits of circuit training?
Since you are switching quickly between stations and performing numerous repetitions, circuit training will keep your heart rate up. This allows you to combine the benefits of resistance training with cardiovascular training at the same time. As a result, you can get a full body workout in approximately 30 minutes.
Do I have to sign up to participate?
No. You may use the circuit training any time during designated circuit training hours.
Do I need to stay for the entire circuit training time?
No. You may come anytime the ONAT Fitness area is open to perform circuit training. The fitness staff will help you get started and move through the stations.
What should I bring?
We suggest bringing a water bottle and hand towel. Also be sure to wear appropriate fitness floor apparel, including a shirt with sleeves and athletic pants or shorts. Click here for a full list of fitness floor policies.
The fitness staff can help you determine your starting weights and equipment settings. You're encouraged to do this outside of the normal circuit training hours. However, the Fitness Staff will assist you so long as they are still able to help other members in the fitness area.
Workout cards are available for you to record and store in the ONAT fitness area. Users are strongly encouraged to:
- Get your healthcare provider's clearance before beginning an exercise program.
- Each time, warm up for five-10 minutes on any of the cardiovascular training equipment available in the ONAT before beginning your circuit workout. This includes stationary cycles, ellipticals, treadmills, steppers, a climber and a rower.
- Stretch after warming up and after completing your circuit training. Handouts on stretching exercises are also available in the ONAT fitness area.
How often should I perform circuit training?
You can perform circuit training up to three days per week, as long as you give your muscles a day between workouts to recover. Even an occasional circuit workout is beneficial as a change to your normal routine.
May I use the strength equipment for non-circuit purposes?
Absolutely, we simply require that you yield to the circuit users as they come through.
- Where is the wellness suite?
- How do I schedule a wellness screening?
- What services does wellness offer?
- Do you offer massage services?
- How can I schedule a massage?
The wellness suite is located on the first floor of the Student Recreation and Wellness Center in room 107, just off the fitness floor.
How do I schedule a wellness screening?
Call 330-972-6599 or stop by the wellness suite.
What services does wellness offer?
We offer a variety of services. For a complete list go to the wellness section here of the Web site.
Massage services are now available at the Student Recreation and Wellness Center. General relaxation massages are available to both men and women and are offered in 30-, 60- and 90-minute sessions. Thirty-minute sessions work the neck, shoulders, back or legs and hands. Sixty- and 90-minute massages cover the full body. Find out more information here.
In order to make an appointment for a massage, please call Wellness Services at 330-972-6599 or stop into the wellness suite, SRWC 107.
- I would like to play but don't have a team. How do I get one?
- Where is the office located?
- When can I sign up for intramurals?
- What does an intramural sport cost?
- What is the ranking system and how does it affects teams in the playoffs?
- What are the team captain's responsibilities?
- When can teams add players to the roster?
- What if I do not have my student I.D.?
- How do I know what my team's schedule is? Playoff schedule?
I would like to play but don't have a team. How do I get one?
On our intramural web site -- https://www.imleagues.com/UAkron -- you can register your own team, or join an existing team. Everything can now be done online, with the exception of payments. Find instructions on how register here.
Where is the office located?
The Intramural Sports Department is housed in the O.A.S.I.S. Office (Outdoor Adventure Services and Intramural Sports). It is located in the Student Recreation and Wellness Center on the first floor near the Spicer Street entrance. The room number is 140, and the telephone number is 330-972-6956.
When can I sign up for intramurals?
You can register any time after the start of a given semester -- but don't miss the deadline! Entry deadlines will be listed on the semester schedule as well as on the individual sport flyer.
What does an intramural sport cost?
Most intramural sports have a registration cost. Some activities are free and other activities can range anywhere from $5 to $40 for either an individual or team sport. These fees are put in place to offset the cost of equipment, staff and facilities.
What is the ranking system and how does it affect how teams get into the playoffs?
The ranking system is all computer based. It takes the win vs. loss record, the point differential, as well as strength of schedule into account. It does not, however, affect whether a team gets into the playoffs. If a team goes .500 (wins at least half the scheduled games) or better in their season and does not forfeit a game, then they have successfully made the playoffs.
What are a team captain's responsibilities?
A team captain is responsible for making sure that the rest of the team is knowledgeable about the rules for the specific sport, everything covered in the participant's manual, as well as attending any mandatory captain's meeting's. The participant's manual can be found in full detail in the Participant Rules and Regulations section of the Web site here.
When can teams add players to their rosters?
In regular season games, each team has until the end of the first week of play to make additions to the roster. In order to be added to the roster, the new player must go to the IMLeagues website -- www.IMLeagues.com/UAkron -- and register onto a team. If you add to a team on gameday, you will not be eligible until the following week.
What if I do not have my student I.D.?
Each intramural participant must have a valid student I.D. If you do not have your University of Akron student I.D. at the time of check-in, you cannot play until you show your valid student I.D. No exceptions. Participants who attempt to play without checking in with an I.D. will forfeit their team's game and will be ineligible for the remainder of the season.
How do I know what my team's schedule is? Playoff schedule?
Schedules are available on the IMLeagues website -- https://www.imleagues.com/UAkron -- in the specific section for each sport, and through your own unique log-in account.
Outdoor Adventure Services FAQ
- What Adventure programs/trips does OA offer?
- Where can I find the most current Outdoor Adventure Programming Schedule?
- Is there a fee for Outdoor Adventure Trips and Programs?
- Who can participate in Outdoor Adventure Programming?
- What is the OASIS and where is it located?
- Do you rent Outdoor Adventure Gear?
What Adventure Programs/Trips does Outdoor Adventure Offer?
The Outdoor Adventure Program offers a variety of adventure programming including but not limited to; Backpacking, Whitewater Rafting, Hiking, Canoeing, Kayaking and Rock Climbing.
Where can I find the most current Outdoor Adventure Programming Schedule?
The OA schedule varies throughout the year and is developed on a semester basis. The current Outdoor Adventure schedule can be found online here, and in the OASIS office.
Is there a fee for Outdoor Adventure Trips and Programs?
Yes. Fees vary depending on the trip or program, but many programs are free. Our goal is to provide safe high-quality adventure programming and instruction at the lowest cost possible.
Who can participate in Outdoor Adventure Programming?
The Outdoor Adventure Program is here first and foremost for the students at UA, but faculty/staff and community members are encouraged and welcome to participate.
What is the OASIS and where is it located?
The OASIS is the Outdoor Adventure Services and Intramural Sports office and is located on the first floor of the Student Recreation and Wellness center just inside the Spicer Street (lot #10) entrance. All Outdoor Adventure program registration, gear rental and Intramural Sports registration occurs in the OASIS.
Do you rent Outdoor Adventure Gear?
The Outdoor Rental Center offers a comprehensive collection of the highest quality outdoor gear on the market. We are able to provide all your equipment needs for backpacking, camping, kayaking and canoeing. Find out more information here.
Please visit the OASIS for pricing and additional information on our rental program and associated policies and procedures.
- Who gets into the SRWC?
- If a faculty/staff member of The University of Akron takes a course at the University does he or she get free access to the SRWC because of being classified as a student?
- Can faculty/staff still use the ONAT at no charge?
- How can non-university individuals gain access to the facility?
- Can members buy a guest pass for a dependent 17 years or younger?
Free access for most students is included as part of their tuition fee. Certain types of students (who do not pay through their tuition), faculty/staff, alumni, retired faculty/staff and community members must purchase a membership.
If a faculty/staff member of The University of Akron takes a course at the University, does he or she get free access to the SRWC because of being classified as a student?
No. The faculty/staff member currently does not pay the SRWC facility fee when taking any college course as does the normal student. Staff/faculty must still buy a membership to the SRWC. Employees who are eligible for tuition fee remission and whose primary affiliation with the University is that of staff/faculty/contract professional are required to pay the faculty/staff SRWC membership rates.
Can faculty/staff still use the ONAT at no charge?
Yes. The University has decided to respect that privilege established before building the SRWC.
How can non-university individuals gain access to the facility?
Patrons must be sponsored by a university sponsor (student or staff/faculty with a membership) and pay the guest fee. Guests under the age of 18 are only permitted in the leisure and Olympic pools at this time. Guests 18 year or older are permitted to use the entire SRWC & ONAT, provided the sponsor stays with them.
Can members buy a guest pass for a dependent 17 years or younger?
Yes, although at this time they are only permitted to use the leisure pool and Olympic pools during open swim times.
- I would like to have a group use the SRWC for an event such as a birthday party. Who do I talk to?
- What are the rates for using the SRWC for a special event?
I would like to have a group use the Student Recreation and Wellness Center for an event such as a birthday party. Who do I talk to?
The Student Recreation and Wellness Center does allow student, campus and community groups to use the facility. Groups may have exclusive use of the facility after it is closed, or non- exclusive use while the building is open. Please visit our Facility Reservation page here.
What are the rates for using the Student Recreation and Wellness Center for a special event?
Rates vary for groups depending upon whether groups would like exclusive or non-exclusive use of the facility, the number of people attending and what services the group would like to have available during its use of the building. Please contact Amanda Tallman at 330-972-8294 for more information.
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Phone: 330-972-7111
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