Rules & Regulations
Ensuring a safe, enjoyable experience for all
RecWell’s top priority is the well-being of ALL those in our community.
University Recreation & Wellness rules and regulations are designed to promote a safe and pleasurable recreation experience. They are not intended to be exhaustive. RecWell reserves the right to prohibit behavior, which in the professional judgment of RecWell staff, may place either patrons or RecWell facilities at risk. Violations of RecWell rules and regulations may result in suspension of recreation privileges or administrative and/or judicial sanction.
- Water in closed, resealable plastic containers is allowed. All other drinks, food, and glass containers are confined to designated lounge areas.
- Smoking, tobacco, and gum are prohibited.
- Bicycles, skateboards, roller blades, scooters and roller skates are prohibited inside RecWell facilities. Appropriate bike/scooter/skateboard racks are available to stow these items outside. Patrons may supply their own or rent (for free) a lock at Equipment Issue.
- Animals are not allowed (except guide/aid animals).
- RecWell facilities may not be used for private instruction or to provide services not approved in writing by RecWell, e,g. personal training, private swim lessons, private tennis lessons, etc.
- Spirited competition is encouraged, but unsportsmanlike conduct and the use of profanity is discouraged.
- Distribution of marketing messages and materials within RecWell facilities is prohibited without explicit permission and prior approval from a professional staff member.
- Please see the rule/policy signage in each recreation space for specific policies.
- Potential guests may not solicit RecWell members for guest pass sponsorship.
- A sponsor must accompany their guest(s) as they enter, and remain in the facility while their guest(s) is/are in the facility, but the sponsor and guest(s) do not have to be in the same area at the same time throughout their visit unless the guest(s) is/are under 16 years of age, then they must be accompanied at all times.
- Sponsored guests are welcome in all University Recreation & Wellness (RecWell) facilities and may participate in scheduled fitness classes. However guests under the age of 18 are not permitted in weight rooms, fitness rooms, sauna, steam room, fitness classes.
- Guests may rent towels at the Eppley Recreation Center Equipment Issue Desk but are not permitted to borrow equipment. A sponsor may check out equipment for use by a guest but will be held responsible, financially or otherwise, for any damage or loss.
- Sponsors are responsible for ensuring that their guests comply with all University Recreation & Wellness policies and procedures regarding the use of University Recreation & Wellness equipment and facilities and may be held responsible, financially or otherwise, for the actions of their guests as well as for any damage or loss to equipment or facilities caused by their guest.
- University Recreation & Wellness reserves the right to ask for proof of guest pass (photo ID and RecWell guest pass) at any time while in the facility.
- University Recreation & Wellness reserves the right to revoke guest pass privileges at any time.
- Guest passes are valid only on the date of purchase and are non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Dependent members and guests under 18 years of age are not permitted in weight rooms, fitness rooms, sauna, steam room, or fitness classes.
- Children under 16 years of age must be directly supervised by an adult at all times.
- Youth over the age of five (5) years must use either the family locker room or the locker room corresponding to their gender identity. There is a family locker room located on the pool deck of the Natatorium, and a family changing area at the Outdoor Aquatic Center for the convenience of older youth, parents and guardians.
- No more than 4 minors per 1 adult are permitted to use RecWell facilities and programs at one time.
The use of photographic equipment to take pictures of any person in RecWell facilities without that person's permission is prohibited. This includes mobile devices and tablets with built-in cameras.
Patrons are allowed to take videos/photos of themselves only if the following are met:
- no use of any additional equipment (e.g. tripods, professional photography equipment) for the reason that it could cause a tripping hazard, damage to equipment, or create an environment that is less welcoming to other patrons.
- no other patrons or staff are in the background of the picture (for reasons that individuals should reasonably expect to be able to work out without being photographed.)
Written permission is required before filming for a class project or news outlet. To receive permission, please email rowhb@umd.edu describing the project and its purpose.
- Barbell snatches and variations of the barbell snatch are prohibited.
- No chalk or liquid grip may be used in RecWell weight/fitness facilities.
- Closed toed shoes are necessary in all weight and fitness spaces. Shoes that damage equipment or flooring are prohibited.
- Appropriate attire must cover the chest and buttocks.
- Water in closed, resealable plastic containers is allowed. All other drinks, food, and glass containers are confined to designated lounge areas.
- All bags, jackets and articles of clothing that are not being worn are prohibited in fitness centers and weight rooms. Lockers are available for use near all fitness centers and weight rooms.
- Please see the rule/policy signage in each fitness and weight area for space specific policies.
- All climbers must check-in at the Adventure Program desk with a university ID or RecWell membership card and have a signed informed consent and release on file. All climbers must be belayed by an Adventure Program certified belayer, unless following the bouldering rules.
- While bouldering, at least one foot must stay below your hands at all times. No topping out on the grotto and no climbing above or below other climbers while bouldering on the wall or grotto.
- You may not be in the climbing area if you have received any medical treatment or are using any medication that could impair your alertness or coordination.
- Adventure Program certified belayers may use Adventure Program belay devices. No Grigri’s or other personal belay devices may be used.
- All climbers must wear shoes that cover their entire foot while climbing. No Crocs.
- All patrons must wear a shirt while in the fenced area of the Climbing Wall. Harnesses, helmets, and shoes are all available to borrow for free. Climbers and belayers must have any personal equipment checked by staff. Equipment deemed unsafe will not be permitted.
- All equipment must be used according to manufacturer recommendations.
- All belayers must be anchored tight to the belay stations while belaying.
- No sitting on the ground while belaying at any time.
- Patrons may not teach belaying to others, regardless of their comfort or skill level.
- You must be a current RecWell member over 18 years old to take a belay test or become belay certified.
- Behaviors deemed unsafe by the Climbing Wall Staff will not be allowed and can result in being asked to leave the premises.
- All injuries must be reported to the Climbing Wall Staff.
- RecWell is not responsible for the personal belongings of patrons. Lockers are available in the ERC.
Important Message
Participation in University Recreation & Wellness activities, including use of facilities and equipment, is completely voluntary. There are risks and hazards, minor and serious, associated with participation in athletic and fitness related activities. Participants voluntarily assume all responsibility and risk of loss, damage, illness, and/or injury to person or property associated with participation in RecWell activities.
The University of Maryland, its officers, agents, and employees is not responsible for any loss, damage, illness, or injury to person or property arising out of or relating to participation in RecWell activities, including the use of RecWell facilities and equipment. The University of Maryland does not provide medical, health, or other insurance for participants. Purchasing adequate health/medical insurance prior to participation is strongly recommended.