PWG Guidelines & Policies

Guideline & Policy Statement

The Yale University Department of Campus Recreation encourages and embraces the diverse recreation, leisure, and wellness needs of our community. Our support of and ability to permit activities and behaviors may be limited and impacted by the following:

The health and safety of both the individual(s) and/or others.
The impact on others and their ability to enjoy, utilize or access our facilities, programs, and services.
The impact or damage to our facilities and/or equipment.

The Department of Campus Recreation reserves to make final judgments for any activities, issues, or behaviors not directly addressed in the guidelines and policies below. Members can e-mail pwg@yale.edu for additional information or clarification as to if their activity is permitted in the PWG.

The Department of Campus Recreation reserves the right to update, alter, or add guidelines and policies at any time. It is the responsibility of our members, guests, and participants to comply with the information listed below.

General Guidelines & Policies

To access PWG members are required to present their Yale ID, Mobile App barcode or Yale Rec Key Tag at the Welcome Desk. There are no exceptions to this policy.
Members and guests must enter through the main entrance of PWG. Accessing or assisting others to access PWG via other doors/entrances is prohibited.
Members, guests, and participants must follow the direction of Campus Recreation and Athletics staff.
Food, glass, and alcohol are prohibited.
Appropriate attire is required at all times (closed-toe, closed-heel, non-marking shoes and athletic wear.)
Campus Recreation is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Personal belongings should be stored in a cubby or locker.
Harassment and unsportsmanlike conduct (use of derogatory language, fighting, etc.) is prohibited.
All equipment must be used in the manner for which it is designed. Modification of equipment is prohibited.
Equipment must be returned to its original location after use.
Equipment stored within a specific space may not leave the space without written approval from Campus Recreation.
Unsolicited photography and videography is prohibited.
Training or instruction by anyone other than Campus Recreation, Athletics, or approved individuals/groups (written approval from Campus Recreation or Athletics required) is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to both paid and unpaid lessons, training sessions, classes, etc.
During open recreation, individuals must share facility spaces. Groups are not permitted to monopolize spaces without a reservation. Music and activities may not interfere with the ability for other individuals/groups to utilize the facility.
Individuals must wipe all shared objects and key equipment touch points with disinfectant wipes before and after use.
Individuals should consult their health care provider before beginning or participating in any Campus Recreation programs or services and/or engaging in any self-directed exercise or physical fitness activities.
Scooters and skateboards are not permitted past the PWG Welcome Desk and cannot be stored in stairwells. They must be parked in the designated parking space inside the lobby.
Bicycles are not permitted inside PWG. They must be parked outside along the available bike racks.

User Agreement & Waiver

Yale Sport and Recreation User-Agreement & Waiver

By enrolling for membership in the Payne Whitney Gymnasium or by participating in any Recreation Program at Yale University, I acknowledge that certain recreational activities require a minimum level of health and physical ability I therefore warrant that am sufficiently physically fit and healthy to participate in any activities I undertake and understand that a choice to participate includes a voluntary assumption of risk of injury, which may arise from my participation in these activities. These types of injuries may be minor or serious and may result from one’s own actions, the actions of others, or a combination of both.
I understand that Yale University takes no responsibility for verifying my physical readiness for my use of Yale University recreational facilities. I take full responsibility for my health and fitness. I agree to check with my physician and discuss my proposed participation in any exercise programs if I have any questions regarding my physical ability to participate. Whether or not I choose to see my physician, I hereby release Yale University, its trustees, officers, agents, employees, and students form any and call claims which may occur as a result of personal injury or property damage arising out of or connected in any way with my participation in recreational programs of while using Yale University athletics facilities.
I agree to abide by the posted or distributed rules and regulations, which are designed for the safety and protection of recreational users at Yale University facilities.

Access Suspension & Loss of Privileges

Members and Guests of the PWG who fail to comply with Yale Campus Recreation, Athletics, and University policies or procedures may be subject to disciplinary action. Failure to comply with facility policies may result in, and are not limited to, the following actions: removal from the facility, suspension of membership/guest privileges, disciplinary action with the College Dean, and criminal prosecution.
Examples of offenses include but are not limited to providing false identification, destruction of property, theft of property, failure to follow facility or Campus Recreation policies or procedures, failure to follow the direction of Campus Recreation and Athletics staff, trespassing, aiding or abetting, and verbal or physical harm inflicted upon staff, members, guests, participants, or others.
Actions that involve any form of harassment, violence, threats, sexual misconduct, or any other Yale University policy may be forwarded to the College Dean.
Depending on the severity and circumstances of the initials’ actions, decisions on disciplinary action will be made by the Associate Director of Athletics - PWG & Campus Recreation, and Yale Athletics Leadership.

Israel Fitness Center

Individuals should consult their health care provider before beginning or participating in any Campus Recreation programs or services and/or engaging in any self-directed exercise or physical fitness activities.
Member, guest and participant access is permitted during published operating hours only. Access beyond operating hours is prohibited.
Members, guests, and participants must follow the direction of Campus Recreation and Athletics staff.
Using the gym wipes provided, wipe down equipment before and after use.
Food, glass, and alcohol are prohibited.
Appropriate attire is required at all times (closed-toe, closed-heel, non-marking shoes and athletic wear.)
Campus Recreation is not responsible for lost or stolen items.
Personal belongings should be stored in a cubby or locker.
All equipment must be used in the manner for which it is designed. Modification of equipment is prohibited.
This is an active space, be aware and stand clear of moving equipment.
Uncontrolled dropping of weights and barbells is prohibited.
Chalk (powder and liquid) is prohibited.
Equipment must be returned to its original location after use.
Equipment stored within a specific space may not leave the space without written approval from Campus Recreation.
Unsolicited photography and videography is prohibited.
Training or instruction by anyone other than Campus Recreation, Athletics, or approved individuals/groups (without written approval from Campus Recreation or Athletics required) is prohibited. This includes but is not limited to both paid and unpaid lessons, training sessions, classes, etc.
During open recreation, individuals must share facility spaces. Individuals/groups are not permitted to monopolize spaces. Music and activities may not interfere with the ability for other individuals/groups to utilize the facility.
During peak hours, individuals are encouraged to keep their use ofindividual equipment to a maximum of 30 minutes.

Pools

3rd Floor Practice & Kiputh Exhibition Pools

PWG Pools are public and shared spaces. All swimmers are required to show respect for others, adhere to posted policies, and follow the directions of lifeguards and staff.
Swimming without a lifeguard on duty is prohibited.
PWG Pools are open to PWG Members and their Guests during posted Recreational Lap Swim Hours only.
Recreational Lap Swim Hours are for lap swim only. Other forms of training is prohibited.
Non or weak swimmers are prohibited during Recreational Lap Swim.
Swimmers may be asked to complete a swim test to demonstrate their abilities.
The swim test requires the individual swim 25 yards unassisted.
Jr. Household Members (ages 5-15) must be accompanied by their legal guardian and complete the swim test.
Swimmers are required to shower before entering the pool.
Urinating, spitting, or nose blowing in or around the pool is prohibited.
Swimmers known or suspected of having a communicable illness are prohibited from entering the pool.
Underwater training including but not limited to prolonged breath holding, prolonged underwater swimming, hypoxic training, etc. is prohibited.
Unsafe behavior including but not limited to running, rough play, recklessly entering the pool, etc. is prohibited.
Swimming underneath the bulkheads is prohibited.
Flotation devices beyond kickboards or pool noodles are prohibited.
Use of the starting blocks is prohibited during Recreational Lap Swim.
Glass objects are prohibited.
Swim instruction or lessons without written approval from Yale Athletics & Recreation is prohibited.
Lifeguards and Staff reserve the authority to limit other activities or behaviors as needed.
Swimmers may borrow equipment such as kickboards. All equipment must be returned to its original location.
Attire
Swimmers are required to wear appropriate swimwear. Clothing which presents a risk to safety such as exercise shorts, leotards, and t-shirts are prohibited.
Swimmers may only wear swim fins within the water.
Street shoes or outside footwear is prohibited on the pool deck

Pool Lane Etiquette

Choose the lane that best suits your ability and speed. Outside = Slowest, Inside = Fastest
Swim counterclockwise and always stay to the right.
Always pass in the center of the lane.
Stay in the corner when stopping at the end of the lane.
In you are consistently being passed or passing others, please change lanes.
Return all equipment to appropriate storage areas.

Locker Rooms & Lockers

Locker Rooms

The Locker Rooms are public spaces. Consideration for others is expected.
Inappropriate behavior will not be tolerated. Persons will be prosecuted for unlawful behavior.
In order to prevent infections, members are encouraged to wear footwear when showering, changing, and moving from the locker rooms to the pool.

Lockers

Only members who have purchased a locker rental may store their belongings overnight.
Coin operated lockers are available for daily use. Members and guests must remove belongings at the conclusion of their workout.
Members and guests may not store any items deemed illegal in the state of CT or prohibited on the Yale University campus. If found, those items will be turned over to University Police for investigation.

Activity Courts

Lanman Center & 5th Floor Activity Courts

Tape may not be applied to any floors without written approval from Campus Recreation.
Roller skates, scooters, and skateboards are prohibited.
Balls which may damage the space including but not limited to outdoor lacrosse balls, cricket balls, baseballs, etc. are prohibited.
Basketball games are limited to “First to 15 Points” when others are waiting for court space.
Groups must be ready to play to use court; “holding” courts is prohibited.
Equal court rights are given to all sports, not only basketball.

Multipurpose Rooms

Multipurpose Rooms: 5th & 8th Floors

Tape may not be applied to any floors without written approval from Campus Recreation.
When not reserved for programming or events, multipurpose rooms may be used for individuals or group open recreation.
Use of the house sound systems are limited to Campus Recreation programs and group reservation with written approval from Campus Recreation. In most cases, reserved groups and open recreation individuals/groups must supply their own sound system.
Roller skates, scooters, and skateboards are prohibited.

Brady Squash Center

Members may use courts 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, & 13.
Courts 1, 2, 3, 7, 8 & 9 are unavailable for open recreation
Metal racquets must have racquet guards.
Protective eyewear is strongly recommended.
Courts may not be reserved.
Drop-in use by individuals and groups for purposes other than squash is not permitted.
Appropriate athletic footwear/attire is always required.
Footwear with white soles or light colored (white or grey, gum rubber) non-marking soles only.
Members should carry their squash shoes to the courts. Street shoes are not permitted. Members should wear a different pair of footwear and change within the Brady Squash Center or locker rooms.
Campus Recreation reserves the right to remove anyone for inappropriate attired/footwear or footwear which may damage the court.

Dates of Operation, Closures & Adjusted Schedules

PWG Scheduled Closures and Adjusted Hours of Operation

As PWG operates within Yale University’s Academic and Official Holiday Calendar members can expect closures and/or adjusted during designated University Recesses and Holidays. Additionally, PWG undergoes several closures for routine facility maintenance throughout the calendar year.

Scheduled PWG closures and/or adjusted hours of operation will be posted to our website no less than 5 business days prior to date in which PWG is closed or hours are adjusted.
When PWG is closed or adjusted, hours for the Pools and Brady Squash Center will also be affected.
Campus Recreation reserves the right to adjust standard/academic year hours of operation as they deem necessary.
PWG memberships will not be refunded or prorated during scheduled closures and/or adjusted hours.

PWG Emergency Closures and Adjusted Hours of Operation

Unscheduled/urgent maintenance, inclement/severe weather, staffing shortages, and other unforeseen events may cause closures or adjusted hours for PWG and the spaces within.

Campus Recreation will work with our university partners and staff as needed to reduce impact to members and to the best of our abilities and resources. Each scenario will be handled on a case-by-case basis.
PWG memberships will not be refunded or prorated during emergency closures and/or adjusted hours.

PWG Extended Closures

Extended closures refer to when PWG or spaces within will be closed for an indefinite length of time due to factors beyond scheduled or emergency closures, i.e. the closure during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In event for extended closures of PWG and spaces within, Campus Recreation will seek guidance from the University administration on the extent, length, impact, and other factors to develop a timeline and return to operation.
PWG memberships will be refunded or prorated during extended closures based upon guidance from the University administration and the factors listed above. Each scenario will be handled on a case-by-case basis.

PWG Membership Guidelines & Policies

Membership Enrollment

Individuals who wish to enroll in a new PWG Membership or who are reactivating an expired/cancelled/suspended PWG Membership must schedule an in-person appointment with PWG Membership Services. This appointment is to verify identity and create a MyRec account. After the initial appointment, most membership functions, questions, and issues can be resolved either online or e-mail.

Click Here to schedule an appointment with Membership Services

Payments & Billing

Membership Payments & Billing

PWG offers membership pricing options including Paid in Full and Agreement Billing (via a recurring fee billed to the member’s credit/card).

Paid in Full Memberships

Paid in Full payments be made via cash, check, or credit/debit card. (Cash transactions cannot exceed $20/transaction.)

Payments for Paid in Full Memberships via credit/debit card will typically be charged within 7-10 business days from the date of transaction.

Agreement Billing Memberships

Agreement Billing Memberships must provide a credit/debit card for payment.

Billing for Agreement Billing Membership occurs between the 1st and 5th of each month. Payments via credit/debit card will typically be charged within 7-10 business days from the date of transaction.

Membership & Locker Cancellation

Membership & Locker Cancellation General Information

Requests for cancellations and refunds for memberships and locker rentals must be submitted in writing to pwg@yale.edu. Information must include member/guest name; Yale Net or member ID; reason for request; dates for requested refund; and any other pertinent information.

Decisions for refunds will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the Associate Athletic Director – PWG and Campus Recreation.

Campus Recreation will not provide refunds for the following:

Lack of use
Failure by the member to cancel their membership or locker rental
Failure by the member to notify Membership Services of a change in their employment or any other causes which would justify a change to their PWG Membership Category/Status
Unhappiness or displeasure from and including but not limited to services offered, facilities, hours of operation, fees, staff etc.
Scheduled closures and adjusted hours of operation
Emergency closures and adjusted hours of operation
Misconduct by other members, guests, or visitors, including but not limited to theft, harassment, disputes, etc.
Suspension/termination of a membership due to violation of Campus Recreation or Yale University polices or guidelines

Prior to the activation or purchase of a membership or locker rental individuals are encouraged to schedule a guided tour of PWG and recreational spaces, visit our website for general polices and guidelines, and seek more information from Membership Services as needed.

Once received, members will be notified via email of the receipt and processing of their cancellation within five business days. Any balance owed past the cancellation date will be refunded to the member. Refund payments may take up to 30 days for processing.

Agreement Billing Membership Cancellations

Cancellations for Agreement Billing Memberships must be requested in writing to pwg@yale.edu at least five days before the billing process occurs on the first of the month. If a member cancels prior to the billing process, they will not be billed for that month. (i.e. if a member cancels on January 25th they will not be billed for February)

Agreement Billing Memberships canceled after the first of the month will be assessed a $25 cancellation fee. The $25 Cancellation Fee will be deducted from the pro-rated balance owed to the member.

Paid in Full Membership Cancellations

Cancellations for Agreement Billing Memberships must be requested in writing to pwg@yale.edu. Cancellations for Paid in Full Memberships will be prorated from the date of receipt of cancellation notification.

Members with Paid in Full who elect to cancel prior to the date of their expiration date will be assessed a $25 Cancellation Fee. The $25 Cancellation Fee will be deducted from the balance owed to the member.

Locker Rental Cancellations

Cancellations for Locker Rentals must be requested in writing to pwg@yale.edu. Cancellations for Locker Rentals will be prorated from the date of receipt of cancellation notification.

Members with Lockers Rentals who elect to cancel prior to the date of their expiration date will be assessed a $25 Cancellation Fee. The $25 Cancellation Fee will be deducted from the balance owed to the member.

Group Fitness & Instructional Program Guidelines & Policies

General Guidelines

Participants are highly encouraged to arrive to class on time. For certain classes, due to the importance of a sufficient warm-up period, participants who arrive after the warm-up period will not be permitted entry to class.
Participants are highly encouraged to stay for the entire duration of the class to ensure participation in the proper cool-down phase.
The Department of Campus Recreation reserves the right to adjust the schedule, class formats and instructors when necessary.
Participants must silence cell phones and may not use cell phones during class.
The Department of Campus Recreation reserves the right to deny/cancel enrollment/participation based on guidelines for Discipline, Suspension, and Loss of Privileges.
Appropriate athletic footwear/attire is required at all times. Appropriate footwear is closed-toe, closed-heel non-marking athletic shoes. Sneakers are strongly recommended. Exceptions may be made for certain programs/activities. Hard-soled, closed-toe athletic shoes or cycling shoes are recommended for all spinning and indoor cycling classes. Shoe removal may be appropriate in Yoga and/or certain dance formats, at the instructor’s discretion.

Registration

Registration will open on the dates specified for each semester/summer.
Members are encouraged to register online via MyRec.
Members are encouraged to ensure their Spectrum username and password are working and valid prior to online registration.
In-person registration for can be accommodated by scheduling an appointment with Membership Services.
Once registration is opened it will remain open until maximum class enrollments are reached.
Maximum enrollment for each class is dependent on what equipment will be utilized for the class, current COVID guidelines, and to provide an effective environment for participants and instructor.

Class Cancellations & Refunds

Instructional Classes & Programs

Within the 10 days of the first scheduled class participants can cancel their registration and will be provided a prorated refund for the remaining classes.

After the 10th day of the first scheduled class participants may request to cancel their registration with a prorated refund for the remaining classes with documentation from their healthcare provider stating that they can no longer participate in the class. Refunds are not provided without documentation from their healthcare provider.

Each semester there will be a designated week for make-up classes which were rescheduled due to inclement weather or instructor cancellation. Refunds will not be provided for classes which are rescheduled. If classes are canceled and cannot be rescheduled, participants will receive a pro-rated refund based on the number of classes which were canceled.

Group Fitness Class Passes

Within the 10 days of purchase of the Group Fitness Class Pass, members can cancel their registration and will be provided a prorated refund.

After the 10th day of purchase of the Group Fitness Class Pass, members may request a prorated refund with documentation from their healthcare provider stating that they can no longer participate in Group Fitness Classes. Refunds are not provided without documentation from their healthcare provider.

Participants will not be refunded for classes canceled due to inclement weather or instructor cancellation unless the total number of canceled classes for the semester/summer exceeds 25% of the total number of scheduled classes. In event of this scenario participants will receive a prorated refund.

Emergency 0r Extended Closures

In the event of an Emergency or Extended Closure, the Department of Campus Recreation will base refunds on the guidelines outlined in the PWG Emergency and Extended Closures.

Class Passes

Group Fitness Passes enables members to attend any and all classes of which their pass is eligible.
Classes can only accommodate a maximum of participants based on the number of spots available. Registration and participation are available on a first come, first serve basis via registration on MyRec.