At Rowan University, students are fortunate to have not only one, but two gyms on campus: the Rowan Rec Center and the Rowan Fitness Center. While both facilities serve important roles for students going to the gym, after spending time at each, I believe the Rowan Fitness Center is clearly the better option for students looking for a good, consistent workout.

The Rowan Rec Center is conveniently located near Mimosa Hall and several academic buildings, making it a popular destination between classes. Not only that, but it offers more than just a traditional gym space. Students have access to an indoor swimming pool, an indoor track, racquetball courts, basketball courts, and a group studio that hosts workout classes and club meetings. 

Organizations such as the Taekwondo Club and the Self-Defense Club frequently use the studio space, adding to the Rec Center’s appeal as a multipurpose recreational hub. For students looking for variety, whether it’s pickup basketball, swimming laps, or attending a fitness class, the Rec Center offers plenty of options. However, popularity can also be its biggest downside.

Because of its central location on campus and wide range of amenities, the Rec Center is often overcrowded. Many times when I’ve gone to lift weights at the Rec Center, I’ve had to wait for benches, squat racks, or machines to open up. Trying to plan a workout around what equipment is available can be frustrating, especially when you are on a tight schedule. For students who want to follow a structured lifting program, constantly adjusting due to limited access can disrupt progress and motivation.

That’s where Rowan Fitness Center stands out. Located on Victoria Boulevard near Nexus Apartments and upperclassman housing, the Fitness Center is less centrally located, but that actually works in its favor. Because fewer students go to the Fitness Center, the space is less crowded. In my experience, I rarely have to wait for equipment. This makes workouts more efficient and less stressful, especially during peak afternoon and early evening hours.

Another major advantage is the quality and quantity of equipment. The Fitness Center offers more benches, racks, and strength training machines than the Rec Center. The fitness center also includes equipment that serious lifters appreciate, such as a functional T-bar machine. The layout of the Fitness Center is also more open than the Rec Center, which makes it easier for students to work out. 

While the Rec Center excels in campus versatility and campus convenience, the Fitness Center excels in what many students care about most: lifting without distractions, waiting, or limitations. If your goal is to swim, play basketball, or take group fitness classes, the Rec Center is a good choice for students. But if your goal is to lift efficiently, avoid long waits, and use high-quality equipment, the Rowan Fitness Center is the clear winner. 

Both gyms contribute positively to campus life. Still, when it comes to creating the best environment for a focused, productive workout, the Rowan Fitness Center clears the Rowan Rec Center by a mile.

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