Two people climbing an indoor climbing wall

January 02, 2024

Explore SIU’s Student Recreation Center during the free Jan. 14 Community Day

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Student Recreation Center at Southern Illinois University Carbondale has a wide variety of equipment, facilities and services, and you can explore it all for free during Community Day 2024, set for 1-5 p.m. Jan. 14.

During that time, visitors can explore the facility and all it has to offer. Everyone is welcome to attend, although children ages 17 and younger must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Organizers request the donation of a nonperishable food item for the Saluki Food Pantry to help SIU students.

Multitudes of activities available

Visitors can take advantage of open recreation or enjoy open swim at the Shea Natatorium, which features an Olympic-size pool. There are also yoga classes and much more, including:

  • Multiple climbing walls, including a kilter board.
  • Several basketball/volleyball courts.
  • Two indoor walking/jogging tracks.
  • Three weight rooms.
  • Numerous fitness and cardio equipment areas.

All can join

SIU students receive recreation center memberships through student fees, but SIU faculty, staff and community members may join the center and take full advantage of all facilities and programming.

A wide variety of classes are offered throughout the year at the center. Some, including group fitness classes, are free to members, while others carry a nominal fee. The Competitive Sports Office provides students and members with the opportunity to participate in an assortment of intramural sports as well.

The Access Inclusive Recreation Program assures students and RSS members can use the facility, programs and services regardless of any physical, emotional or psychological condition or disability.

Youth classes are offered as well.

Discount memberships offered

In conjunction with the Community Day, the first 25 people who are not currently Student Recreation Center members will be able to purchase an annual membership at a 25% discount on that day only. The promotion is available only to people who are not currently members or to those whose membership expired prior to June 2023.

The annual membership fee must be paid in full that day to get the discount; installment payments and payroll deductions aren’t eligible. The percentage off annual membership does include a complimentary 10-visit guest pass as well.

For additional details

For more information about Community Day 2024 or the SIU Student Recreation Center, visit rec.siu.edu, call 618-453-1277 or email reccntr@siu.edu.