When asking yourself about something to do near me in Portland with a group of friends or family, consider
OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center
Why OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center in Portland, Oregon, offers a distinctive and holistic approach to health and fitness, making it an exceptional place to meet up with friends who share an interest in wellness. Founded on scientific principles, the center provides programs tailored to support and nurture all facets of daily life, regardless of one’s health status or age. Whether your goals include enhancing flexibility, managing chronic illnesses, training for athletic events like marathons, or recovering post-surgery, March Wellness is designed to assist every step of the way. Its commitment to an integrative health philosophy fosters a supportive, safe, and motivating atmosphere for members. The facility itself is housed within the OHSU Center for Health & Healing, built to be environmentally responsible and is on track to achieve LEED Platinum certification, highlighting its dedication to sustainability and healthy indoor environments. Features include a comprehensive range of aquatic activities with lap pools, therapy pools, a sauna, steam rooms, and fully equipped gyms with cardiovascular and strength training equipment, alongside specialized studios for Pilates reformer sessions. The center encourages social engagement through group classes and personalized training sessions, making it ideal for friends looking to improve wellness collaboratively in an expert-supervised, welcoming community.
Here's what people think of OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center
As of recent, OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center holds a 4.5-star rating based on 162 reviews.
Users consistently rate the OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center highly, with an average rating of 4.5 from 162 reviews, indicating strong overall satisfaction. Positive reviews frequently praise the center’s knowledgeable and attentive staff who emphasize safety and personalized programming adapted to individual health needs. Many reviewers appreciate the facility’s clean, modern environment and the extensive variety of fitness and wellness options, including group classes, personal training, aquatic therapy, and recovery-focused services. The center's commitment to creating a healthy and sustainable environment also receives commendations from environmentally conscious members. On the other hand, some negative feedback points to the enrollment process being more rigorous than typical fitness centers, which can feel cumbersome for new members accustomed to simpler sign-up procedures. A few users also mention that the center caters primarily to adults aged 18 and older, which limits family or youth engagement. Additionally, some members note that the building’s hours and policy enforcement can be strict, requiring adjustments to workout schedules. In conclusion, the reviews reflect a facility that excels in tailored, science-based wellness programs with highly professional staff but may require prospective members to adapt to its specialized focus and thorough health screening requirements.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Alison Stock
I love this place . The staff is kind and engaging. The clientele is diverse : the pools are , at least for me , the star of the show . The three salt pools are comfortable and meet my needs for both exercise and relaxation. The facilities are kept clean . No matter what time of day , there are always staff members cleaning ! It’s a total turnaround from other gyms I have been a member of . Cell phone use in the gym is limited , which I love. I feel that if you’re looking for a very nice place for wellness (especially if you like good pools), this is a great place to become a member of .
Mickey Mishra
I really like going here. Of course the cafe is my favorite. We are really lucky to have OHSU here. From labs to doctors, nothing but good things to say. And plenty of parking. Thank doc
Andrew Taylor
Just had a massage there from Rachel Suen. As someone with bad back issues and needing a deep tissue massage. I must say, she did an outstanding job! Very personable and makes sure your specific issues are addressed.
Nicky
THIS PLACE IS A HUGE SCAM. Run away and save your money. I signed up in July 12 and payed almost $400 for the first month because of the initial fee. I should have ran at that point but i was sooo desperate to improve my fitness. This gym isn’t the type of place that will inspire you to get fit. Its outdated and they are scamming their members at that price. Now that my membership ends this month, I called to make sure I would get my remainder 12 days because I payed for a full initial month. “We don’t prorate months” & “you should have said something when you signed up” - actually, you guys shouldn’t be charging people for days they weren’t a member..& if you are, you should have the decency to give them the days they are owed. So i basically payed $400 for 2 weeks….that is insane. Trust me people, this is NOT a good gym with good business practices. Typical scammy membership gym that is outrageously overpriced for what they offer. They dont give a damn about you. They just want your money. I almost had to pause membership for a medical surgery, and they still charge you monthly during that time just FYI. Ridiculous and completely inconsiderate. I signed up primarily for the sauna but couldn’t bare to use it because the locker room has carpet and every time i went in the shower the cloth curtain would stick to me. I can only imagine how filthy it is. The dumbell area also has a rotten smell. With all the money they steal from members, you think they would update their Y2k style locker room to be more sanitary. ABSOLUTELY horrible. They think our money grows on trees. NOT WORTH IT, i’m warning you. If you decide to sign up anyways, make sure you wait until the first of the month so you at least don’t get scammed out of two weeks like i did. But either or you are getting scammed. You might be looking to this gym to start your 2025 fitness journey. Don’t do it. Trust me!!! You are better off doing at home workouts or going to another gym if you have a car.
John Lewis
March Wellness is a very clean, well maintained facility, spacious and the equipment is better than most. The free weights, work out rooms, mats and equipment are top notch. I like the vibe, the members are respectful of others, most of the staff is pretty cool. Some take suggestions hard and resist. In the end it’s like any other for profit gym. They’re going to do what they do. The place is pricey which subsidizes OHSU employee members. If you time it right, you can get a pool lane to yourself. Grand views of the waterfront, too, while you work out. The newer cardio equipment seems designed more as an App experience and for collecting your workout data than being simply user friendly. You should probably buy peripherals to wear to monitor yourself. The one nutrition class I took was pretty lame. Getting in and out of the parking garage with your gym card is difficult. So get a parking pass each time and get it validated! You can test the health club for $20 and see for yourself.
How to reach OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center
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Why OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center with your friends? Because this center offers more than just a place to work out; it provides a vibrant community environment that promotes health, wellness, and connection in a setting tailored to all stages of life and fitness levels. Whether your goal is to improve flexibility, recover from surgery, manage a chronic illness, or train for a marathon, March Wellness supports every journey with science-backed programs in a safe and motivating atmosphere. Meeting up here with friends means immersing yourselves in a supportive space where encouragement flows naturally, making workouts and wellness goals more achievable and enjoyable. The variety of amenities—from swimming pools and saunas to Pilates reformers and personal training services—ensures that there's something for everyone, fostering group participation and shared experiences. The center’s hours, from early morning to evening on weekdays and generous weekend timings, offer flexibility for groups to schedule meetups that fit busy lives. At March Wellness, it’s not just about fitness; it’s about rallying your friends around a lifestyle of health, happiness, and collective growth.
What activities are available at the OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center that make it great for group meetups? The center boasts a spectacular range of facilities designed to suit diverse interests and fitness goals. Among its offerings, there is a gymnasium equipped with cardiovascular and strength training equipment perfect for group circuits, helping friends motivate each other through vigorous sessions. Aquatic activities are a highlight, with access to lap pools, therapy pools, whirlpools, and relaxing saunas and steam rooms available to members. These aquatic features are ideal for low-impact workouts or simply unwinding together after a fitness class, providing a refreshing group experience. Additionally, the Pilates reformer studio allows for small group classes focusing on core strength and flexibility, which are both fun and beneficial workout options for friends to share. Group exercise classes further enhance the community feel, including sessions that foster teamwork and collective energy, such as yoga, spinning, or circuit training classes. The variety ensures that each friend can find something that suits their taste while still engaging with the group dynamic.
Why is the OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center the perfect spot for hosting meetups involving friends or family? One key reason is the center’s inclusive design that accommodates individuals at any fitness or health stage. It is a place where beginners or those in rehabilitation feel just as welcomed as seasoned athletes aiming for peak performance. This inclusivity encourages groups of differing abilities to come together under one roof, where everyone can feel supported rather than sidelined. Moreover, the supportive facilities like therapy pools and accessible equipment ensure family members with mobility challenges or special health needs can also join in comfortably. The center’s structured programs are rooted in science and wellness best practices, offering expert guidance and personal training that groups can benefit from collectively, fostering accountability and shared success stories. The inviting environment, combined with experienced staff and extensive resources such as massage therapy and wellness lectures, transforms any visit into a holistic wellness event rather than just a fitness outing. This makes it ideal for friends and families looking to blend time together with meaningful health engagement.
How does the OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center cater to members and guests during visit hours? The center operates with convenient and extended hours—opening as early as 5 a.m. Monday through Friday and staying open until 10 p.m., with weekend hours from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. This wide time frame accommodates varying schedules, enabling groups to meet early for energizing sessions or relax in the spa facilities after a long day. Aquatic activities conclude a little before closing time, ensuring safety and proper maintenance, but still provide ample opportunity for group swims or water therapy sessions. It’s important that all visitors adhere to posted times and guest policies for a smooth experience, but the welcoming attitude toward guests means bringing friends or family into the wellness journey is easy and encouraged. The center also maintains a clean, organized environment with locker rooms and changing facilities to support convenience during visits. This attention to operational detail helps groups feel comfortable and confident about hosting their wellness meetups stress-free.
What are some unique wellness programs offered at March Wellness that enhance group activities? March Wellness & Fitness Center differentiates itself by providing health and fitness programs that are deeply research-informed and targeted toward fostering comprehensive well-being. Their programs go beyond physical fitness to include support for chronic conditions, post-surgical recovery, and mental health, which can be particularly valuable for groups seeking to improve loved ones’ quality of life. For example, group classes focusing on functional fitness, balance training, or chronic illness management create an enriching environment where participants help inspire each other. Personalized training sessions and workshops led by experts are available to groups wanting tailored exercises or health advice, boosting motivation and compliance within your friend circle or family. The Center’s emphasis on nurturing all facets of wellness and adaptability throughout life stages makes it especially attractive if your meetup’s goal is mutual encouragement towards healthier, more vibrant lifestyles. These programs not only provide structure but also create bonding opportunities as participants share progress and challenges together.
How does the social atmosphere at OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center help foster lasting friendships and group morale? The community-oriented culture at March Wellness is a major draw for those planning group events or meetups. The staff and members collectively create an atmosphere that is welcoming, motivating, and supportive—key ingredients to sustaining group fitness enthusiasm. Social interaction in classes and around facilities like the pool or lounges naturally encourages connections beyond workouts. Members often form accountability partners, workout buddies, or social groups that extend outside the center, fostering deeper relationships. Group exercise classes and wellness workshops are designed with engagement in mind, often featuring collaborative challenges or partner exercises that boost morale and create enjoyable social dynamics. Additionally, the center hosts occasional health lectures and events that groups can attend together, cultivating a sense of belonging and shared purpose. This positive social environment turns physical activity into a fun community experience, enhancing each guest’s commitment and enjoyment.
What practical features and amenities enhance the experience of a group meetup at March Wellness? The facility itself is thoughtfully equipped to handle groups with comfort and convenience. Locker rooms, showers, and hygiene facilities are well-maintained to accommodate the needs of multiple members simultaneously. The availability of massage therapy services provides an excellent wind-down opportunity after intense group workouts, promoting recovery and relaxation. Personal training staff who can support group training plans ensure participants receive expert attention tailored to their collective needs. The presence of saunas and steam rooms also offers a perfect communal de-stress space post-exercise. Furthermore, the center’s location in the OHSU Center for Health and Healing places it within easy reach via public transport or personal vehicles, with adequate parking options. This makes organizing meetups hassle-free. The equipment, classes, and therapy services create a comprehensive environment where groups can enjoy all aspects of wellness together in one place without needing to split activities between different venues.
How does OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center meet the needs of all age groups and fitness levels for family gatherings? The center is intentionally designed to be inclusive of people from all age groups and with diverse fitness backgrounds. Whether your family includes young adults who want vigorous exercise options or older relatives seeking gentle, therapeutic programs, March Wellness offers specialized classes and equipment suited for each segment. For example, aquatic therapy pools are excellent for seniors or those with joint issues, while the gymnasium and cardio studios meet the demands of younger, more active members. Group classes cater to varied levels within the same session, allowing family members to participate side by side while tailoring intensity to individual capability. The center’s philosophy embraces wellness across the lifespan, making it an ideal spot for multigenerational gatherings aiming to foster health and togetherness. Parents can encourage kids, older adults can feel supported, and everyone can share milestones—all in the same setting designed to nurture each person’s wellness journey effectively.
How can you maximize your meetup experience at March Wellness & Fitness Center? Planning ahead can help groups get the most out of their time at the center. Booking group exercise classes or Pilates studio sessions ensures you have reserved spots for your preferred activities, which is especially useful during busier times. Coordinating with personal trainers for customized group plans can align everyone’s fitness goals and boost collective motivation. Taking advantage of wellness workshops or lectures as part of the meetup enriches the experience by adding learning and inspiration to your time together. Scheduling massage appointments post-workout offers luxurious relaxation that members can look forward to sharing. Lastly, arriving early or during off-peak hours can give groups a quieter, more personalized fitness experience. By leveraging all the center’s resources and programming options, your meetup transforms into a comprehensive, supportive wellness event that strengthens not only bodies but friendships.
In summary, OHSU March Wellness & Fitness Center stands out as an exceptional venue for hosting meetups with friends or family due to its broad range of activities, inclusive environment, expert programs, and supportive community atmosphere. Whether your group seeks intense training, gentle therapy, or social wellness engagement, March Wellness offers a uniquely holistic approach to fitness and health that fosters connection, growth, and well-being for every participant. Its flexible hours, top-tier facilities, and expert staff create the perfect conditions for any group to rally around a shared commitment to wellness, making it more than just a fitness center—it’s a place to build healthier, happier relationships through meaningful activity.