Welcome to the John Wooden Center at UCLA, a premier facility dedicated to health, fitness, and recreation within the UCLA community. To ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for all patrons, we have established the following policies and procedures. This guide provides comprehensive information on access regulations, facility guidelines, participant conduct, and everything you need to know to make the most of the John Wooden Center, often referred to as “John Wooden Ucla” by students and faculty alike.
Access and Age Regulations at John Wooden UCLA
To maintain a secure and appropriate environment, the John Wooden Center enforces specific age and access restrictions:
- Age for General Participation: Individuals must be at least 18 years old to engage in open recreation fitness and sports activities, unless participating in a scheduled program or instructor-led class designed for younger age groups.
- Age for Cardio and Strength Equipment: A minimum age of 16 years is required to utilize cardio and strength training equipment. Exceptions may be made for participants in specific instructor-led activities or programs that include younger individuals under supervised conditions.
- Personal Training: Only certified UCLA Recreation Personal Fitness Trainers are authorized to conduct personal training sessions within any UCLA Recreation facility, including the John Wooden Center. This policy ensures quality and safety in all training activities.
- Facility Closures: Please be aware that both courtyard and indoor spaces may be temporarily closed due to inclement weather, unsafe conditions, or scheduled classes and events. Always check the daily schedule or official UCLA Recreation updates for the most current information before planning your visit to John Wooden UCLA.
John Wooden Center Facility Policies
To preserve the cleanliness, safety, and integrity of the John Wooden Center, the following facility policies are in effect:
- Bicycle and Scooter Restrictions: For safety and space considerations, bicycles and electric scooters are not permitted inside the John Wooden Center. Please utilize designated outdoor parking areas for these modes of transportation.
- Skateboard and Non-Electric Scooter Storage: Skateboards and non-electric scooters must be securely stored on appropriate racks or in lockers. They are not allowed to be carried around or used within the facility.
- Beverage Policy: Beverages are permitted only if contained in spill-proof, unbreakable, and resealable containers. This policy helps prevent spills and maintain a hygienic environment. Spitting is strictly prohibited within the facility.
- Photography and Video Recording: To protect the privacy of our patrons and maintain a comfortable atmosphere, photography and video recording are not allowed within the John Wooden Center unless prior approval has been granted by UCLA Recreation management. Please seek permission before undertaking any recording activities.
Seeking Assistance at John Wooden UCLA:
Your safety and satisfaction are our priorities. Should you require any assistance, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Reporting Incidents: In case of blood spills, injuries, equipment malfunctions, or any facility-related feedback, please report the issue to the FITWELL staff immediately. Prompt reporting helps us address concerns efficiently and maintain a safe environment.
- Guidance and Inquiries: For any help, questions, guidance, or lifting instruction, do not hesitate to approach the FITWELL staff. They are trained to assist you and ensure you have a positive experience at John Wooden UCLA.
- Special Accommodations: If you require special accommodations due to a disability or any other reason, please consult with the FITWELL staff. UCLA Recreation is committed to providing inclusive access and support for all patrons.
Participant Policies at the John Wooden Center
To ensure a respectful and functional environment for everyone at John Wooden UCLA, all participants are expected to adhere to the following policies:
- Attire Requirements: Appropriate attire, including a top, bottom, and shoes, is mandatory in all areas of the John Wooden Center, unless specified otherwise for particular instructor-led activities or programs.
- Footwear Policy: Closed-toe and closed-heel athletic shoes are required for participation in most activities. This is for your safety and hygiene, and to protect the equipment and flooring.
- Clothing Restrictions on Equipment: Clothing with buttons, zippers, studs, or any potentially damaging embellishments is prohibited on upholstered equipment or cardio seats. These items can cause damage to the equipment and discomfort to other users.
- Barrier Requirement: A piece of clothing or a towel must be used as a barrier between your skin (excluding hands) and the upholstery of equipment and mats. This is crucial for hygiene and helps maintain the cleanliness of equipment for all users at John Wooden UCLA.
- Towel Recommendation: While not mandatory in all cases, towels are highly recommended for personal hygiene and to further protect equipment.
- Bag Storage: Backpacks and bags are generally not allowed on the fitness floor, except in designated Cardio Zones. Please secure your personal belongings in lockers to keep walkways clear and reduce clutter.
- Equipment Obstruction: Do not hang any items, such as towels or clothing, on cardio equipment. This can cause damage and inconvenience to others.
- Beverage Container Policy (Reminder): Beverages must be in spill-proof, unbreakable, resealable containers. Spitting is strictly forbidden.
- Personal Hygiene: Please maintain personal hygiene to avoid being disruptive to the environment. Strong scents can be bothersome to others in close proximity during physical activity.
- Scent Restrictions: To ensure a comfortable environment for everyone, strongly scented deodorants, perfumes, or colognes should be avoided.
- Audio Devices: All personal audio must be listened to through personal listening devices such as headphones. External speakers are not permitted as they can disrupt others’ workouts and focus.
- Respectful Conduct: Be respectful of all equipment, fellow patrons, and John Wooden Center staff. Courtesy and consideration contribute to a positive community atmosphere.
- Compliance with Policies and Directions: Always follow posted zone-specific policies and any directions given by the John Wooden Center staff. These guidelines are in place to ensure safety and efficient operation of the facility.
Equipment Usage Guidelines at John Wooden UCLA:
Proper equipment usage is essential for safety and equipment longevity. Please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Weight Handling: Dumbbells, plates, and bars should not be dropped from any height. Lower weights responsibly to prevent damage to equipment and floors, and to minimize noise disruption.
- Collar Usage: Collars must be used on all bars whenever weight plates are added. This prevents weights from slipping off during exercises, which could cause injury or damage.
- Wall and Window Safety: Do not lean bars or throw balls against walls, windows, or ceilings. Contact with windows is prohibited during any activity for safety reasons.
- Vertical Storage: Do not stand bars or dumbbells vertically on the floor. This poses a tipping hazard and can damage both the equipment and the flooring.
- Equipment Reracking: After each use, rerack dumbbells, barbells, plates, and all other equipment to their designated storage locations. This keeps the gym organized and safe for everyone.
- Spotter Recommendation: Spotters are highly recommended for all free weight exercises performed over the head, face, or chest. If you are lifting heavy weights, especially in these positions, having a spotter is crucial for your safety.
- Safe Distancing: Maintain a safe distance between yourself and other users, especially when performing exercises that require space or movement.
- Intended Equipment Use: Equipment must be used only as intended by the manufacturer. Modifications to equipment are strictly prohibited as they can compromise safety and damage the machines.
- Designated Areas for Movements: All free-standing movements, especially those involving weights or dynamic exercises, must be performed in designated areas to ensure safety and optimize space.
- Equipment Cleaning: Wipe off equipment after each use with the provided cleaning supplies. This is a basic courtesy to other users and helps maintain hygiene standards at John Wooden UCLA.
- Cardio Equipment Time Limit: When others are waiting, there is a 30-minute time limit (including warm-up and cool-down) on all cardio equipment. Please be considerate and allow everyone fair access to popular machines.
Recreation Community Expectations at John Wooden UCLA
UCLA Recreation is committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive community. All members and guests are expected to adhere to the full Recreation Community Expectations document, which is updated regularly. Please familiarize yourself with these expectations to ensure you contribute positively to the John Wooden UCLA community.
Booking Facilities at John Wooden UCLA
For priority access to racquetball courts, you can make a booking. Please note that you must have valid access to the John Wooden Center to utilize the booking system.
Make a Booking
Facility Rentals at John Wooden UCLA
Currently, facility rentals at the John Wooden Center are unavailable. Please check the UCLA Recreation website http://reserve.recreation.ucla.edu for updates on when rentals will resume.
John Wooden Center Zone Descriptions
The John Wooden Center is divided into distinct zones, each equipped for specific types of workouts and activities:
Free Weight Zone
This zone is dedicated to traditional strength training with a wide array of free weights and benches.
Equipment Available:
- Variety of benches including Olympic bench presses, military presses, incline & decline press benches, preacher curl benches, and flat & adjustable benches.
- Dumbbells, iron plates, preloaded barbells.
- Jungle gym (cable machines).
- Plate-loaded machines and pin-loaded machines for targeted muscle workouts.
- Body weight stations for exercises like pull-ups and dips.
Advanced Circuit Zone
Designed for experienced fitness enthusiasts looking for structured circuit training.
Equipment Available:
- Variety of plate-loaded machines and pin-loaded machines offering advanced resistance options.
- Body weight stations integrated into the circuit layout.
Novice Circuit Zone
Ideal for beginners or those seeking a gentler introduction to circuit training.
Equipment Available:
- Variety of user-friendly pin-loaded machines.
- Cardio rowing machine for full-body warm-ups and workouts.
- Recumbent and upright bikes for low-impact cardio.
Cardio Zone
Equipped with a comprehensive selection of cardiovascular training equipment.
Equipment Available:
- Treadmills for walking, jogging, and running.
- Elliptical trainers for low-impact, full-body cardio.
- Upright & recumbent bikes to suit different fitness levels and preferences.
- Stepmills for challenging lower body and cardiovascular workouts.
- Rowers for full-body engagement and cardio conditioning.
- Arc Trainers, offering a unique elliptical motion with variable incline and resistance.
Functional Training Zone
A dynamic space designed for versatile and functional movements.
Equipment Available:
- Squat Racks for barbell squats and related exercises.
- Olympic platforms designed for Olympic lifting and power movements.
- Booty Builder machine for targeted glute and lower body workouts.
- Cable Machines offering versatility for countless exercises.
- Iron & Bumper plates suitable for Olympic lifting and functional fitness.
Courtyard
An outdoor space available for workouts and relaxation, weather permitting.
Features:
- Open to all participants within reservation times.
- Masks are recommended but not required in this outdoor setting.
- Please note the Courtyard may be closed due to scheduled programming or inclement weather.
Flexibility Zones
Designated areas for stretching and flexibility work, located conveniently throughout the John Wooden Center.
Locations:
- 1st-floor lobby area.
- Cardio Zone.
- Pardee Gym.
Equipment Available:
- Mats for stretching exercises.
Pardee Gym
A multipurpose gymnasium suitable for a variety of fitness activities.
Activities:
- Strength classes.
- Strength & Conditioning open recreation.
- Body weight exercises.
Equipment Includes:
- Pull-up bars.
- Mats.
- Barbells, bumper plates, kettlebells* (*available during classes only).
Pardee Gym may have limited availability for open recreation due to scheduled classes, sports reservations, and other programming.
Fitness Studios
Dedicated studios for group fitness classes and specialized activities.
Wooden Floor Studios:
- Dynasty Room.
- Gold Room.
- Pyramid Room.
Specialized Studios:
- Pilates Studio: Located in Squash Court A.
- Spin Studio: Room 2314.
Collins Court
An indoor basketball gymnasium with three full-sized courts.
Activities:
- Open Recreation Basketball and Wheelchair Basketball.
- Intramural (IM) Sports such as volleyball, basketball, and dodgeball.
- Club Sport Practices and Events.
*Open hours are subject to change due to events. Please check the UCLA Recreation Instagram or the reservation website for the most up-to-date daily schedule.
Additional Amenities & Spaces at John Wooden UCLA
Beyond workout zones, the John Wooden Center offers a range of amenities to enhance your experience:
Locker Rooms & Saunas
Convenient and well-equipped locker rooms are available for both men and women.
Features:
- Showers.
- Day-use lockers and quarterly locker rentals.
- Restrooms.
- Saunas for relaxation and recovery.
Meeting Rooms
UCLA registered clubs, organizations, and departments can reserve meeting rooms within the John Wooden Center for various purposes.
Meeting Rooms Available:
- Plaza View.
- Leadership Conference Room.
- Main Conference Room.
- Yates Conference Room.
For meeting room reservations, please visit the Reservations & Rentals webpage.
BruinHub
The BruinHub is a dedicated space designed to support UCLA commuter students and those facing housing insecurity, located within the John Wooden Center.
Features and Access:
- Designed with commuters’ needs in mind, offering a comfortable and practical space.
- Students can apply online to become a “BruinHub Passholder” for access: online application.
Bike Shop
The UCLA Bike Shop, a partnership between UCLA Recreation and UCLA Transportation, promotes cycling as a mode of transport.
Services:
- Do-It-Yourself workshop setup.
- Tools, workspace, and resources for UCLA students and staff to perform bike repairs.
Learn More About the Bike Shop
Rock Wall
Located on the first floor of the John Wooden Center, the Rock Wall offers a bouldering experience for UCLA Recreation members.
Features:
- Bouldering-specific setup suitable for all skill levels.
- Open to all UCLA Recreation members.
Learn More About the Rock Wall
Rental Center
The Outdoor Adventures Rental Center provides a wide selection of outdoor equipment for rent to UCLA Recreation members.
Services:
- Rental of tents, camping gear, sports equipment, and more.
- Ideal for outdoor trips and activities.
Learn More About the Rental Center
OPEN REC SPORTS
Enjoy open recreation sports during designated hours at the John Wooden Center.
Sports Available:
- Volleyball.
- Table tennis.
- Badminton.
- Racquetball.
- Squash.
- Basketball.
View Open Rec Sports Hours and Locations
John Wooden Center Annual Facility Hours
Below are the standard operating hours for the John Wooden Center (JWC). Always check the specific hours section for quarterly schedules and any temporary modifications.
Regular Hours:
Monday-Thursday: 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
Friday: 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
NOTE: Showers close 45 minutes prior to gym closing time.
Fall: September – December 2024 Hours
Fall Interim Week Hours
9/14-9/15, Sa-Su, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
9/16-9/19, M-Th, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
9/20, F, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
9/21-9/22, Sa-Su, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Fall Zero Week Hours
9/23-9/26, M-Th, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
9/27, F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
9/28, Sa, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Special Hours in Fall
11/8, F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
11/9-11/11, Sa-M, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
11/12, Tu, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
11/26, Tu, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
11/27, W, 5:15 AM – 5:00 PM
11/28-11/29, Th-F, CLOSED
11/30, Sa, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
12/1, Su, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Fall Finals Week Hours
12/6, F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
12/7, Sa, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
12/8, Su, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
12/9-12/12, M-Th, 5:15 AM – 11:00 PM
12/13, F, 5:15 AM – 8:00 PM
12/14-12/15, Sa-Su, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Winter Break Hours
12/16 – 12/20, M-F, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
12/21 – 1/1, CLOSED
1/2-1/5, Th-Su, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
1/6, M, 5:15 AM – 1 AM
Winter: January – March 2025 Hours
Special Hours in Winter
1/17,F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
1/18 – 1/20, Sa-M, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
1/21,Tu, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
2/14, F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
2/15,– 2/17, Sa-M, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
2/18, Tu, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
Winter Finals & Spring Break Hours
3/14,F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
3/15,Sa, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
3/16, Su, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
3/17 – 3/20,M-Th, 5:15 AM – 11:00 PM
3/21, F, 5:15 AM – 8:00 PM
3/22,Sa, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
3/23, Su, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
3/24 – 3/27, M-Th, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
3/28, F, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
3/29 – 3/30, Sa-Su, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
3/31, M, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
Spring: April – June 2025 Hours
Special Hours in Spring
5/23, F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
5/24 – 5/26, Sa-M, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
5/27, Tu, 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
Spring Finals Hours
6/6, F, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
6/7,Sa, 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
6/8, Su, 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
6/9 – 6/12, M-Th, 5:15 AM – 11:00 PM
Commencement Weekend, Juneteenth, & Summer Interim Hours
6/13, F, 5:15 AM – 2:00 PM
6/14 – 6/15, Sa-Su, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
6/16 – 6/18, M-W, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
6/19, Th, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
6/20, F, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
6/21 – 6/22, Sa-Su, 8:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Summer Sessions Hours
6/23 – 6/26, M-Th, 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM (Session A); 5:15 AM – 11:00 PM (Session C)
6/27, F, 5:15 AM – 8:00 PM
6/28 – 6/29, Sa-Su, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Current Hours
Winter Quarter Hours, beginning 1/6/25:
Monday-Thursday: 5:15 AM – 1:00 AM
Friday: 5:15 AM – 10:00 PM
Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Sunday: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Winter Holiday/Modified Hours:
MLK Day, 1/20: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Rec Staff Mtg, 1/26: 1:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Presidents Day, 2/15-2/17: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
NOTE: Showers close 45 minutes prior to gym closing time.
Location of John Wooden Center
The John Wooden Center is centrally located on the UCLA campus, situated atop Parking Structure 4 on Westwood Plaza, just south of Sunset Boulevard. It’s at the heart of campus life, at the intersection of Bruin Walk and Westwood Plaza, adjacent to key landmarks such as the Intramural Field, Pauley Pavilion, the JD Morgan Center, Ackerman Union, and the Student Activities Center.
Learn more about UCLA Recreation and everything John Wooden UCLA has to offer.
