The University of Scranton opened its new 14,000-square-foot fitness center, located in the ground floor of Rev. Scott R. Pilarz, S.J., Hall on Mulberry Street, on Friday, Oct. 21. The new center is more than double the size of the combined fitness room of the Byron Recreation Complex and weight room of the Long Center.

The fitness center, which will serve the Jesuit university’s students, faculty and staff, features 46 pieces of cardio equipment, including treadmills, stationary bikes and aerobic steppers, all furnished with individual theater systems. The center also includes 22 Cybex units designed to exercise precise muscle groups and an extensive, state-of-the-art free weight area.

The center’s open, spacious design incorporates modern stainless steel accents and mirrors with plenty of natural light from skylights and large windows with views of Mulberry Street and newly planted rose bushes and gardens.

The facility includes locker rooms and showers. Lockers cannot be used for overnight storage.

A valid Royal ID card will be needed to access the facility, which will be open from 6 a.m. to midnight on Mondays through Thursdays; from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Fridays; from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays; and from 10 a.m. to midnight on Sundays. The new fitness center will not be closed for classes.

The Murray Royals Room of the Byron Recreation Complex will be used as open recreation studio space for fitness classes, club sports and some recreation activities.

The weight room of the Long Center will be used by the University’s Exercise Science Department.

Members of the University community toured the new facility at an open house on Friday, Oct. 21.

The fitness center is located on the ground floor of the west building of the $33 million Mulberry Street apartment and fitness complex, which includes two- and four-bedroom apartments with common kitchen and living areas for 400 junior and seniors. Students moved into the upper floors of the complex in August. A casual dining area and student convenience store planned for the first floor of the east building of the complex will open the week of Nov. 7.

The new fitness center includes 46 pieces of cardio equipment, 22 Cybex units and an extensive, state-of-the-art free weight area.

The center’s open, spacious design incorporates modern stainless steel accents and mirrors with plenty of natural light from skylights and large windows.

Fitness center visitors can work out with views of Mulberry Street and newly planted rose bushes and gardens.