If you’re considering working out at Penn State, you’ll be glad to know the gym amenities are extensive, modern, and perfect for all fitness levels. Penn State University Park offers multiple gyms, pools, fitness classes, and outdoor spaces—so whether you’re an athlete or just getting started, you’ll find exactly what you need.
Knowing what’s available at each Penn State gym can help you maximize your membership, avoid peak crowds, and enjoy all the benefits campus recreation has to offer. This guide will break down each facility, current amenities, group fitness options, pricing, and student reviews—so you’ll have total confidence as you plan your fitness routine.
For official gym hours, policies, and updates, always check Penn State Campus Recreation.
IM Building: Penn State’s Flagship Fitness Facility
The IM Building is Penn State’s largest and most advanced gym, featuring more than 90 cardio machines, extensive free weights, a rock climbing wall, and even an indoor turf field. Renovated in 2014, this state-of-the-art center is a favorite among students looking for variety and top-tier equipment.
What’s Inside the IM Building?
- Cardio Zone: 90+ treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, and stair machines.
- Strength Area: Free weights, racks, and selectorized weight machines.
- Rock Climbing: 40-ft climbing wall (lead and top rope), 14-ft bouldering wall.
- Functional Fitness: Indoor turf field, spin studios, group fitness rooms.
- Courts: Racquetball, squash, and table tennis.
- Track: ⅙-mile elevated indoor track.
- Locker Rooms: Modern showers and day-use lockers.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible for all students.
Student reviews highlight the IM’s size and variety, but note it’s busiest late afternoons (4–9 pm) and midday.
See Penn State’s official IM Building page for real-time details.
White Building: Balanced Gym & Pool for Everyday Fitness
White Building is the perfect blend of gym and aquatic amenities, featuring a 25-meter lap pool, plenty of free weights, selectorized stations, and basketball courts. Its central location makes it a favorite for students living near East Halls or the HUB.
White Building Features
- Pool: 25-meter, 5-lane lap pool (great for swimming or water fitness).
- Strength & Cardio: 75 selectorized/plate-loaded stations, 50 free weight stations, 60 cardio machines.
- Multi-Use Rooms: Group classes, martial arts, and more.
- Basketball Courts: Two full courts.
- Locker Rooms: Showers, day-use lockers.
- Group Fitness: Frequent classes including yoga, HIIT, and dance.
Many students find the White Building less crowded and love the combination of gym and pool access.
Hepper Fitness Center: Compact, Convenient, and Comprehensive
The Hepper Fitness Center, located inside Rec Hall, is a fully-equipped but more intimate gym experience for West Campus residents. You’ll find all the essential cardio and weight equipment without the crowds.
Hepper Fitness Center Highlights
- 70+ Cardio Machines: Treadmills, rowers, bikes, steppers.
- Free Weights & Plates: Multiple benches, racks, and selectorized machines.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Great for focused workouts.
- Locker Rooms & Showers: On-site for all users.
Best for students seeking a convenient, quieter workout on West or North Campus.
Aquatic Facilities: Pools, Diving Wells & Outdoor Options
Penn State’s aquatic facilities go far beyond standard pools, offering spaces for lap swimming, diving, recreation, and even open-air swims.
Main Pool Locations
- McCoy Natatorium:
- 25-yard competition pool, instructional pool, 14-ft diving well, and an outdoor 50-meter pool.
- Hosts swim classes, diving, and open swim times.
- White Building Lap Pool:
- Smaller, but perfect for quick swim workouts.
Outdoor pools are especially popular in summer. For up-to-date hours and events, see McCoy Natatorium info.
Group Fitness Classes & Personal Training
Penn State offers over 60 group fitness classes every week, covering everything from HIIT and spin to aqua fitness, yoga, and Zumba. Led by certified instructors, these classes help students stay motivated and connected.
Fitness Programs Include:
- Group Classes:
- HIIT, cycling, Zumba, yoga, aqua fitness, martial arts, strength training, and more.
- Personal Training:
- Certified trainers offer 1-on-1 sessions and 4-week programs (typically ~$40 per session or per package).
- Fitness Assessments:
- Free with certain memberships; ask staff for current options.
You must reserve a spot for group classes—sign up via Penn State Campus Rec.
Outdoor Recreation: Fields, Courts & Adventure
Penn State students also enjoy access to premium outdoor spaces for sports, group activities, and even adventure trips.
- Outdoor Fields: Soccer, football, and multipurpose fields available for club, intramural, and informal play.
- Tennis Center: Lessons and play available for all skill levels (Tennis Center info).
- Stone Valley Recreation Area: Off-campus nature center with hiking, fishing, canoeing, ropes courses, and more (transport provided for some programs). See Stone Valley info.
Reviews: What Students Are Saying
Students consistently praise the variety, modern equipment, and overall cleanliness at Penn State gyms.
- IM Building is the “go-to” for serious lifters and group class fans, though it’s busiest in late afternoons.
- White Building is quieter, great for swimmers and those wanting a less crowded workout.
- Hepper is the best-kept secret for students on West/North campus.
- Showers and locker rooms are available in all main gyms. Most students say facilities are well-kept, though peak times can get busy.
Common FAQ:
- Are the gyms free?
- Access is included with full-time student fees. Non-students can buy passes—see current membership rates.
- Is there personal training?
- Yes, available for ~$40/session or as part of a 4-week program.
Pricing, Policies, & Membership
- Student Access: Full-time students get free access (included in student fees).
- Non-Student Membership: Starting at $45/month or $250/semester for faculty, staff, and eligible guests (membership info).
- Group Fitness: Classes are free for students; non-student packages start at $30/month.
- Recent Updates:
- Reservation system now required for some classes and pool sessions.
- All facilities now offer modernized locker rooms and increased cleaning schedules (updated March 2024).
Conclusion
Penn State’s gyms and recreation facilities rank among the best in the Big Ten, with a huge range of options for every student. Whether you want the latest equipment, pool time, group fitness, or outdoor adventure, you’ll find it all included with your student status.
Ready to explore the IM, White, or Hepper gyms? Check today’s hours and class schedule, reserve your spot, and get the most from your Penn State fitness experience!
Visit the official Penn State Campus Recreation website for details, and start your wellness journey today.