When you first arrive at a new campus, everything can feel unfamiliar. From the buildings to the people, it can be overwhelming to navigate a new environment. One place that can quickly become a second home for many students is Pottruck Health and Fitness Center at the University of Pennsylvania. This premier fitness facility offers a wide range of amenities and activities for students, staff, and visitors to enjoy. In this guide, we will break down Pottruck floor by floor, room by room, to help you navigate and make the most of your time at this state-of-the-art gym.
The entrance to Pottruck is located at 3701 Walnut Street, across from the Graduate School of Education. The main entrance is easily accessible and unlocked during operational hours. Upon entering, guests are asked to sign in to the facility. Pottruck is free for all PennCard holders, who can simply scan their card at the front desk or sign in via the campus recreation app. Non-students and staff visiting campus can purchase guest day passes for $15 at the front desk. The friendly front desk staff are always available to assist with any questions or concerns, making sure everyone feels welcome and comfortable in the facility.
The first floor of Pottruck is divided into two main sections: the atrium and the Katz Fitness Center. The atrium serves as a gathering space with tables, chairs, and a television. It also features a 40-foot climbing wall that caters to climbers of all experience levels. Adjacent to the atrium is the Katz Fitness Center, which houses a variety of cardio equipment such as treadmills, ellipticals, and stairmasters. The first floor also includes offices, meeting rooms, and the Rec Lounge, a cozy space with board games and study areas. While the basement, which typically houses Sheerr Pool and additional locker rooms, is currently closed for renovations, the first floor remains a hub of activity and recreation.
Moving up to the second floor, guests will find the main weightlifting area and the Avnet Basketball Courts. The weightlifting room is equipped with dumbbells, barbells, bench presses, power racks, and more, providing ample space for strength training. The adjacent basketball courts are open for guests to play and often host pickup games and other activities. The second floor also features a multi-purpose room with additional cardio and weightlifting equipment, as well as a turf area for stretching and functional training.
The third floor of Pottruck is known as the “quiet floor” due to the absence of overhead music. This floor houses additional cardio and weightlifting equipment, as well as specialized rooms for group exercise classes and recovery sessions. The cycling and pilates studios offer a variety of classes throughout the week, while the newly renovated Recovery Room provides relaxation and recovery tools such as reclining chairs, compression boots, and massage guns. Guests can reserve bays in the Recovery Room for private sessions at a nominal fee.
Finally, the fourth floor of Pottruck features more cardio and weightlifting equipment, including a CrossFit area. This floor also houses additional studios for group exercise classes, such as HIIT workouts. These rooms are typically closed to the public outside of class times but can be rented for private use. Additionally, Pottruck is home to many recreational clubs and intramural sports teams, providing opportunities for students to engage in a variety of physical activities and socialize with peers.
In conclusion, Pottruck Health and Fitness Center offers a comprehensive and welcoming environment for individuals looking to prioritize their physical well-being. With its diverse range of facilities, equipment, and programs, Pottruck caters to fitness enthusiasts of all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or just starting your fitness journey, Pottruck has something for everyone. By familiarizing yourself with the layout and amenities of this premier fitness facility, you can make the most of your time at Penn and achieve your health and wellness goals.
