How is the fitness center at UC Merced? Also how accessible would it be to access it because I have no choice but to live off campus my first year of college. I have always wanted to be apart of getting my body into shape but I feel anxious about the people there or how to even begin.
Hey @MacksterA!
I’m actually a student employee at the gym since last summer! The gym we have is pretty neat, we have two separate gym rooms that are pretty similar in terms of equipment, with one a bit smaller (but newer) that was built to accommodate the growing campus and the bigger, older one that has a ton of equipment and a basketball court. They are located right before the bridge that leads to the main campus, so it’s a short walk from parking. All of the buses stop right in front of the gym, so it’s even easier to access the facilities.
The recreation facilities are fully equipped with cardio bikes, treadmills, ellipticals, a variety of weights, as well as benches, squat racks, and multistation equipment to get your entire body swole. We have rentable basketballs, volleyballs, bandminton rackets and a bunch of other workout equipment for checkout to play with friends. We also have shower towels you can borrow so you can shower after your workout, put your stuff in a locker and head to class!
The gym also offers fitness classes that include yoga, zumba, and spin/cycling classes, and personal trainers that can help you reach your goals. You do have to pay for these services though.
I totally understand just starting outing out and getting into a fitness routine, it’s super daunting and sometimes you’ll feel like you have no idea what you’re doing lol. My best advice is to look up workout moves you can do on youtube/instagram/etc, practice them in private, and then do them at the gym. That’s literally how i learned how to squat haha!
I wouldn’t be worried about the people so much; sure they’re students too and you’ll see them on campus, but I honestly don’t think they should affect you going to the gym. Just go in, get your workout done, and do you. There are people of all levels that go to the gym here from beginners to bodybuilders and they’re all pretty chill! If anyone gives you grief just let me know 
Let me know if you have any more questions!
Thanks! You’ve been really helpful!