About
USF Recreation & Wellness, located at 12301 USF Genshaft Dr, Tampa, FL, is a comprehensive facility serving the University of South Florida community. It provides a wide array of programs and amenities including a fitness center, group exercise classes, indoor and outdoor sports courts, a climbing wall, and aquatics facilities, all aimed at promoting health, wellness, and recreational engagement.
The facility's Indoor Lap Pool is maintained at approximately 80°F (26.7°C), suitable for lap swimming. The Outdoor Leisure Pool is kept at a warmer, comfortable temperature of approximately 84°F (28.9°C), ideal for recreational activities.
What are people saying (AI review summary)? The university gym (often referred to as the REC) generally receives positive feedback for being a comprehensive and reliable facility, particularly for weightlifting. Users frequently highlight its vast array of equipment for various types of exercises, its large size, and the supportive, friendly atmosphere among students and staff. Many find it motivating to work out there and appreciate it as a free resource for students. However, a major and frequent complaint is severe overcrowding, especially during peak hours (5-8 pm), which leads to long waits and the necessity of sharing machines. While the equipment is plentiful, it is often described as outdated and occasionally in need of repair. Other common criticisms include a lack of consistent cleanliness (especially in bathrooms), a need for facility updates, unclear rules or information (e.g., about equipment use or entrance location), and a limited number of courts. On the positive side, free parking is a bonus, and specific quiet times (6:30-9 am and 9:30-10:30 pm) are noted for those wishing to avoid the crowds.
Location
Gallery
Amenities
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Accepts Credit Cards
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Parking Lot
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Accessible Entrance
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Accessible Restroom
Reviews
Listing Reviews
November 5th, 2022Dương T. Minh Phương
I was overwhelmed at first because of how big and crowded it was, plus it was full of big, bulky, terrifying-looking guys 😂 But over time this has become my favorite place in the university. I mostly work out on the weight floor, but there are many other rooms for different kinds of sports. On the weight floor, you can find pretty much any thing for any kind of exercise. They're not new equipment, and from time to time things do get broken (they'll get fixed), but hey it's a free gym for students. Most folks here are students so the overall atmosphere is really nice and supportive. The "big guys" seem to prefer this over the other gyms on campus, so if u like watching ppl lifting heavy to get motivation, which I do, then come here. If u prefer a more chilling and relaxing atmosphere and newer equipment, go to the FIT or WELL. It can get really crowded tho, so pick the time carefully to avoid a lot of waiting.
March 16th, 2025Jackie
Place needs to be updated and cleaned better. Bathrooms were a mess but usable. Only 3 courts. No concessions avaliable. Supposedly a vending machine somewhere but I never saw it. The entrance is on the back of the building which wasn't listed either. Parking is free so that's a plus.
June 18th, 2024Javier Reales
The REC is really good, way more reliable than any other gyms on campus. All kinds of equipment you can think of they have in there and plenty of other extra activities in the building. Gym staff is friendly. It may seem intimidating at first, but you will get used to it really fast. No matter what time you go, someone is going to ask you "how many sets do you have" on a machine, so I would recommend getting used to working in/taking turns with random people. Everyone is usually nice, and no one has ever said no to me working in. The quietest times are 6:30am-9am and 9:30pm-10:30pm. DO NOT even think about going during 5-8pm, it is way too packed and there is a line for literally every machine.
June 30th, 2025Honza Kime
Been going here for almost 4 years now. Great place to go after class. Staff are awesome.
September 13th, 2024Hi Cracks
I didn’t really see anybody wiping which was weird. Also I didn’t know I had to use clips and got in trouble for that? They could’ve posted some rules? And lastly, there’s WAY too many people and I can’t stand it being so crowded. The only good thing is that it is HUGE. There is a nice track to warm up on. And lastly,there are lots of machine options. Though the machines are a little outdated.
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Opening Hours
| Sunday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
|---|---|
| Monday | 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Thursday | 6:30 AM – 10:30 PM |
| Friday | 6:30 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
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