As UC students, we have to pay to use University services, but due to COVID-19 many of the services we previously enjoyed are currently unavailable. During this extremely stressful time, physical exercise and getting out of the house is very important for students' mental and physical health. Many gyms around the area are open to patrons at reduced levels and can offer people a place to go and exercise. There is a way for the University to reopen some of its services at a limited capacity and by appointments on the UCSB recreation website. The Rec Center would use the CDC recommended cleaning practices to ensure cleanliness and safety of students and faculty. Allowing students to make a reservation to use the Rec Center at least once a week would be very beneficial for the students who are stuck in their houses and who don't have the equipment or space to get their desired exercise. It would also give some student faculty the opportunity to return to work, after being unemployed for so many months. Obviously, safety is a top concern for the University, as it should be, and the students' physical and mental well-being should also be a top priority. 

I personally have struggled with being confined in a small apartment with 5 other students during the pandemic, and finding the space to work from home, go to school online, and exercise has proven challenging. There aren't many places students are able to go, without the library or any other campus services available that list remains short. Having the Rec Center as an outlet would be beneficial overall.