Tired of the same old campus routine? Take a break, make a splash and dive into one of the best-kept secrets on campus: the university swim center.
College life is stressful, and finding a place to unwind or stay active isn’t always easy. While the Student Recreation Center gets most of the attention, the university swim center is an underrated alternative that offers students a chance to exercise, relax and learn a valuable skill – all at an affordable price.
Located through the Memorial Gym, past the old women’s center and through the tunnel, the swim center features two pools designed for both recreation and training. The main pool ranges from 6-14 feet deep, making it perfect for lap swimming or deep-water workouts. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the warm pool, kept at a comfortable temperature, is just 4 feet deep, ideal for light exercise or simply unwinding after a long day.
For students, access to the swim center is completely free. That’s right: no extra fee, no hassle. Non-students can also enjoy the facility with a $6 day pass, making it one of the most affordable fitness options on campus. If you’ve never swum before or want to improve your skills, swim lessons are available for just $20, a small price to pay for a lifelong skill.
Unlike the crowded gym, the pool is a great place to unwind. It offers a different kind of workout—it’s a low-impact, full-body exercise that is easy on the joints and great for overall fitness. Swimming builds endurance, strengthens muscles and boosts cardiovascular health without the strain that high-impact activities put on your body. It’s a great alternative for students who don’t enjoy lifting weights or running on treadmills.
Beyond fitness, the pool is a great place to unwind. Floating in the water, taking a few easy laps or simply relaxing in the warm pool can help ease stress and provide a much-needed mental reset. Between deadlines and study sessions, it’s easy to feel burned out, but swimming offers a way to clear your mind and recharge. The weightless feeling in the water helps ease tension, and the rhythmic strokes can be almost meditative.
The university swim center is one of the best-kept secrets on campus, but it shouldn’t be. Whether you’re looking for a new workout routine, a place to relax or an affordable way to stay active, this facility has something for everyone. The benefits of swimming go beyond fitness—it’s a space to breathe, unwind and take a break from the demands of student life.
So, grab a swimsuit and dive in. You won’t regret it.
AJ Pearman can be reached at arg-opinion@uidaho.edu.