What Makes the Drexel Recreation Center No. 1?

Last month, the Drexel Recreation Center was named number one in a poll of readers at Philly.com of the best gyms in all of Philadelphia.

“Being recognized as the best gym in Philadelphia is a true testament to the hard work, determination and unbridled attention to detail by our passionate staff,” said Andrew Case, manager of memberships and programs at the Recreation Center. “As a committed leader in the fitness industry, we have set the bar high for ourselves and we do not plan on letting our foot off the pedal.”

Being named the best gym in the city is a huge honor, but what put the Recreation Center over the top?

DrexelNow reached out to the people who work there or do their workouts at the center to see what makes it worthy of the Philly.com list.

• Joe Giandonato, manager of health promotion

  "Our staff regularly interacts with members and students and works tirelessly to stay abreast of emerging trends and research to provide the best in class programs and services. Ultimately, our collective goal is making our facility the finest in the country."

• Kathryn Formica, assistant director of recreation, health, fitness and wellness

  “I think the reason why the Drexel Recreation Center has been able to accomplish what it has is essentially due to the tight-knit staff. We all work together to accomplish goals and reach new heights by supporting each other’s ideas. With teamwork and relying on each other’s knowledge we have the ability to not only stay current on what is trending, but provide a variety of services that appeal to a diverse population. Taking the time to get to know our members and offer them support as they grow is a highlight to working in this field.”

• Michael Gordon, local resident

  “For me, personally, it’s always clean. Also, it’s a quiet place to get your workouts done, even when there are a lot of people here. And the equipment is always available because there are multiple machines. The people are friendly, too, always willing to help and spot.”

• Andrew Deming, assistant director of recreation, programming and student staff

  "Our desire to empower our student staff to facilitate top notch programming is evident the minute you enter the building and begin participating in any of the many program options we offer. Our staff is passionate about their work and our leaders are passionate about training the most friendly and knowledgeable staff in town. Now combine the above with a state-of-the-art facility and you end up with the Drexel University Recreation Center."

• John Dobbs, LeBow College of Business student

  “I like it because it’s right on campus and really accessible. Everything is up-to-date and current … Of all the gyms I’ve been to, I’d have to say this is my favorite.”

• Morgan Kilroy, coordinator, member services

  “Between the professional staff, part-time staff and student staff, we all work hard and, most importantly, work together to ensure the satisfaction of our members and our students at all times.”

• Bryan Ford, director of recreation

  “We create a culture of success with our student staff by providing leadership opportunities and the ability for them to grow through experiential learning while working at the Drexel Recreation Center. The result is being able to provide a first-class experience for Drexel students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members who utilize the Recreation Center." 

  Andrew Case assisted in compiling this piece.