UCSB Department of Recreation — Attraction in Isla Vista

Short hours, extended equipment downtime, many holidays, far too busy. Cable machines break several times per year (cables fray) and it is not uncommon for a month or longer to pass before they are fixed. Often, both will be broken machines in the MAC will be broken simultaneously. The facility is far too small for the number of members, and it's not uncommon to wait 15-20 minutes for a barbell/squat rack/bench press. Hours are short (close at 9:00 PM on weekends, open at 6:30 AM on weekdays) and they are closed a large number of days out...

Overall, the gym is decent, but there are a few things that could be better. The areas (especially cardio) really need some fans or better ventilation—it gets super stuffy, especially when it’s busy. Also, the two hip thrust machines are always taken. Adding another one wouldn’t hurt. And it’s a bit annoying that the hip extension and hanging leg raise machines are only in the other building. Having to go back and forth between buildings during a workout...

Parking is extra and a rip off. Hours are the worst ive ever seen for a gym. Staff close/force you out of the gym 10-15 minutes prior to actual closing time so they leave exactly on time which is incredibly annoying. Given the strong fitness culture of ucsb they should hire people who like the gym rather than those who just want a chill job. Such a shame because since the last renovations they did the gym is amongst one of the...