Skip to main content

Wellness Center Policies and Guidelines

South Dakota State University Miller Wellness Center logo

Miller Wellness Center Policies and Guidelines

South Dakota State University Miller Wellness Center

Box 2818, 1440 North Campus Drive

Brookings, SD 57007

605-697-WELL (9355)

Closed: New Year’s Day, Easter Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.

Reduced hours during holiday’s and academic breaks. Please see our hours of operation.

All patrons are expected to be responsible, courteous and safety conscious at all times. Disorderly conduct, abuse or misuse of the facility or its equipment, and a disregard for policies will not be tolerated. Violators will be asked to leave the facility and may be subject to disciplinary action.

Violators of the policies may also be suspended from using the facilities.

Depending on the severity of the violation, case may be referred to UPD, Student Conduct Office and/or Title IX Office. General Policies are as follows:

  • Bicycles, unicycles, skateboards, rollerblades, scooters, or hover boards are not allowed to be used inside the facility.
  • The use of Elevation Training Masks is prohibited within the facility for safety concerns.
  • Strollers are allowed throughout the Wellness Center with the exception of the free weight area.
  • Only certified service animals are allowed in the facility. All other animals, including emotional support animals, are strictly prohibited.
  • Use of lounge areas and informal recreation spaces such as studios or multipurpose courts are first come, first serve basis as well as number of participants in group.
    • Wellness Center fitness programs, intramural games and scheduled or reserved spaces will take priority over informal recreation at certain times.
  • Personal items should not be left unattended, placed on the floor or on equipment. Patrons are encouraged to use locker rooms or day lockers for belongings. Personal items are not the responsibility of the Wellness Center.
  • Staff members cannot hold equipment or valuables for any participants.
  • The Welcome Desk and Administration Office cannot make change for patrons or visitors.
  • Use of cell phones or photographic equipment is not permitted in the facility or locker rooms.
  • Monthly towel service is available for purchase to students and members. All towels are $1 for those without a locker or towel service. Towels can be received at the check-in desk.
  • The Wellness Center is a substance free facility. Possession of alcohol, illegal drugs and tobacco (this includes smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes) are not allowed. Possession of such items will result in removal from the facility and further disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the advisory committee. The Wellness Center reserves the right to check liquid substances in personal beverage containers.
  • The Wellness Center follows guidelines and prescriptions according to ACSM, ACE and NETA for proper exercise protocol and safety for all patrons. All cardio, fitness and weight equipment must be used for their intended purposes.
  • Headphones must be used at all times while listening to personal music.

The Miller Wellness Center is a controlled access facility. Only authorized patrons and guests are allowed entry and must check in at the Welcome Desk. Patrons may be asked to sign a liability waiver.

  • Members and students are permitted access to the Miller Wellness Center with one of the following:
    • SDState Issued ID – Physical or Digital
    • Photo ID – Driver’s License, Passport, Costco, etc.
    • Wellness Center Issued Key Tag
    • SDState Wellness Center Fusion GO App
  • Use of another person’s identification is prohibited.
    • Doing so will result in confiscation of the ID or key tag.
    • Other disciplinary action can consist of a two-week suspension by both the card user and the card owner.
    • Repeat offenders will be handled on an individual basis.

The Miller Wellness Center has a “Grace Period” starting the first day of class each semester and ending the day after tuition and bills are due. During this time, any student taking classes can access the facility with any of the approved forms of access, even if they are not activated in the Card Services system. Students will be notified if student ID does not work and given the steps to resolve issue before end of “Grace Period.” Again, no ID = no access, even during this period.

External entities may not provide the same service already offered by the Miller Wellness Center, i.e. personal training, sports performance training, etc. Training opportunities may be offered by non-MWC staff if that service is not currently offered by the MWC. Training is defined as the action of teaching a person a particular skill or behavior in exchange for funds or services.

Facility Space

  • Renter/trainee will pay the facility rental rate associated with their current membership status
    • Member/Non-Member facility rental rates apply
    • SDSU students/trainers cannot reserve spaces on behalf of their clients

Liability

  • Each participant will be required to set up a member profile and sign the waiver before their first training session

Current Services

  • Sports Performance Training
  • Personal Training
  • Climbing Instruction (Top Rope Belay and Lead Climbing)
  • Lifeguard Certification
  • Water Safety Instructor Certification
  • Adult, Child and Pediatric CPR/AED/First Aid
  • Group Fitness Instructor Certification
  • Dietetic Consultation/Nutrition Services

Permitted Activities

  • Basketball
  • Volleyball
  • Dance
  • Pickleball
  • Badminton
  • Racquetball
  • Soccer
  • Baseball/Softball
  • Golf
  • MMA/Karate
  • Lacrosse
  • Rugby

The Wellness Center encourages participation in activities by individuals with disabilities. If you are an individual with a disability who requires accommodation in order to participate in a program, please contact the Welcome Desk in advance at 605-697-9355 or email sdsu.wellnesscenter@sdstate.edu.

The Wellness Center operates on an “exercise at your own risk” policy. The use of the facility and its programs is completely voluntary. Each individual utilizing the facility assumes the risk for any harm or injuries sustained. Neither South Dakota State University, nor the Wellness Center can assume any responsibilities for injuries incurred through participation in its programs and/or services in or outside the facility. However, all injuries should be reported to the Welcome Desk or Operations Manager of the activity area and an accident report completed. It is strongly advised that participants use caution and be aware of potential health risks associated with exercise and obtain a physical from a physician before beginning an exercise program. It is strongly recommended that every participant of the Wellness Center’s activities be covered by a health and accident insurance policy.

Memberships can be purchased in the Administrative Office in the Wellness Center during open hours. Individuals 14 and older may purchase a stand-alone membership. If they are under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign a waiver. Individuals between the ages of 5-13 years old can be added for $10/month. Individuals 14 and older can be added for $20/month. All secondaries must be living in the same household and verification of living in the same household is required.


Membership Structure

Primary Membership: includes one individual Secondary memberships:

  • Additional members can be added to the primary membership for $20 per person per month.
  • All members added to the primary membership must be living in the same household, and adult members (18+) will be required to show proof of same residence
  • Children four years and younger added at no cost.

Primary membership pricing includes discounts for: Military, Seniors (62), SDState Employees, SDState Retirees, SDState Student Spouses and Non-SDState Students.

  • The best discounted price will be applied for the primary member. Only one discount may be used.

Inquiries about corporate agreements (cardiac rehab and various insurance plans such as Silver Sneaks or Blue 365) can be directed towards the Administration Office. Student memberships

  • Any student registered for classes with SDState has full access to the Wellness Center with their SDState issued ID.

Member Payment Structure

  • Monthly EFT and payroll: 6-month minimum. Paid in full: three-month minimum, up to nine months. Pay 10 months, get two months free. Fitness reimbursement and Non-SDState student membership plans may require a standalone membership.
  • Parking included in membership. Excludes SDState students and employees.

Student and Community Memberships include access to all Group Fitness classes.

Non-student members who wish to participate in intramurals must purchase an IM Pass.


Membership Renewals

After joining the Miller Wellness Center, you are able to renew your membership in a variety of ways:

  • Over the phone: Members may call with their credit or debit card information and renew over the phone (member card information is not stored at the Miller Wellness Center for security reasons).
  • Online: Memberships maybe renewed online by visiting the Miller Wellness Center Member Portal.
    • Once logged in, click the ‘memberships’ tab to renew.
  • In-Person: Visit us in room 100 at the Miller Wellness Center to renew in-person.

Note: Memberships may only be renewed within 30 days prior to expiration.

Large, medium and small lockers are available for rent on a first come, first serve basis for all members and students. Lockers in the locker rooms are for rent only. With purchase of a locker rental, each member will receive an assigned locker and corresponding expiration date. Towel service is available for members who have rented lockers in the facility. Towels can be received at the Welcome Desk.

Day lockers are available throughout the Wellness Center for no charge and non-rented lockers may be used on a daily basis at no charge. All lockers must be cleared out at the end of each rental period. All property left in an expired or unrented day locker will become property of the Wellness Center and will subsequently be sold if not claimed from the Welcome Desk within two weeks.

The Wellness Center is not responsible for lost, stolen or damaged items.

Guest passes and multi-visit passes are intended to accommodate individuals who would like to use the facility without purchasing a membership. Guest passes and multi visit passes do not need to be purchased in advance and are available at the Welcome Desk.

Receipt must be present for same day re-entrance. One punch will be used per individual accessing the Wellness Center. Guests must sign a liability waiver. The Wellness Center reserves the right to approve or deny any pass transaction.

Non-participants or spectators are allowed to access the facility for various activities, programs and events free of charge. All guests must check in at the Welcome Desk and sign the spectator sign in sheet. Upon signature, spectators acknowledge they have read the assumption of risk, waiver of liability, release agreement and agree to all statements on the spectator sign in sheet.

Spectators agree not to utilize any equipment or participate in any programming and must wear wristbands throughout facility. Those wishing to participate can purchase a day pass or pay programming fees at the Welcome Desk. The Wellness Center staff reserves the right to ask any non-participant to exit the building at any time. All children ages four and under are considered a non-participant.

  • Anyone under the age of 17 must have a parent or guardian sign a Liability Waiver to access the facility.
  • Non-participant is considered child ages four and under who is only spectating – free access and no waiver needed
  • “With supervision” is defined as an adult/guardian within speaking distance of child


    AgeAccessibility
    All agesClimbing wall, pool, track and multipurpose courts
    4 years and youngerAll previous age group activities
    *Can be considered non-participant
    5 – 8 years oldAll previous age group activities
    Rowers
    Stationary weight exercises
    Abs, core, stretching
    9 – 11 years oldAll previous age group activities
    Pin selected machines (Technogym, Human Sport and Life Fitness)
    All cardio pieces under supervision of guardian
    12 – 13 years oldAll previous age group activities
    Dumbbells
    Light load or unloaded barbell
    14 years old and olderMay utilize the entire facility without a parent or guardian present.

Food is not allowed at any time in the activity areas beyond the Welcome Desk unless otherwise authorized.

  • Sodexo has all catering rights and must be used for any and all catering for events or reservations in the Wellness Center.
  • For information on Sodexo please visit Jacks Dining.

Water and other drinks in securely closed containers may be used in the exercise or gym areas. Glass containers are prohibited at all times.

The Miller Wellness Center’s attire policy is designed to create a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment for all members.

Attire Policy

  • A clean, appropriate athletic top must be worn and cover the breast.
  • Bottoms must fully cover the buttocks and private areas.
  • Attire that could cause damage to equipment or risk safety of members, and see-through garments (specifically private areas) are prohibited.
  • Close-toed and non-marking athletic shoes that cover the entire foot must be worn.
  • In some Group Fitness classes participants may be asked to remove footwear for the safety of the participant. (Yoga, PiYo, etc.)

Appropriate Swimwear

  • One and two-piece bathing suits, board shorts, wet suits, burkinis, rash guards and competitive swimwear that cover the buttocks and private areas. Thongs and other swim attire such as undergarments that are overly revealing or transparent are prohibited.
  • No cotton-based clothing is allowed in the pool. Cotton and similar materials can absorb the chemicals in the water, causing the water to become less effective at maintaining the proper chemical balance and may cloud the water.
  • Clean mesh athletic shorts and/or a shirt may be worn over a manufactured swimsuit that meets the aforementioned guidelines.
  • Swim-appropriate footwear is allowed.

FAQ

Is it okay to wear just a sports bra?

If a sports bra is designed as an athletic piece of clothing designed to be worn by itself when working out, it is allowed. With the number of variations of athletic tops/sports bras, we don’t want our staff to have to make subjective judgement calls about whether something is appropriate (as long as it meets the requirements of being a piece of athletic clothing and covering the breast).

What constitutes a top that ‘covers the breast’?

For all genders, a top must cover the nipples. We require all private areas (which we consider to be the nipples of the chest for all genders) to be covered in the fitness spaces.

What if I only have jeans or khakis to wear as pants, can I still work out?

Our goal is to provide as inclusive as an environment as possible, so if someone wants to use the facility and doesn’t have workout shorts/pants, we don’t want to turn them away. If they are wearing some form of bottoms that have excessive pieces that could damage equipment, or the clothing poses an obvious safety concern, our staff will address as needed.

What if someone feels uncomfortable with what another member is wearing?

Our goal is to be as supportive to individual members as possible by allowing them to wear what makes them feel comfortable while in our facility (as long as it meets the attire policy posted above). We seek to remove as many barriers to utilizing our facility as possible in order to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment. If someone has specific questions, contact the Operations and Events Coordinator.

  • All found items are stored in a locked location. Valuables (iPods, wallets, jewelry, etc.) are stored in a safe.
  • Report any lost or stolen items to the Welcome Desk or contact UPD.
  • Items can be retrieved at the Welcome Desk within two weeks. All unclaimed items are subject to be sold or donated.

Checking out Equipment

  • Any student, member or guest can checkout equipment with their student ID, any photo ID, key tag or Wellness Center app barcode.
  • It is the student, member or guest’s responsibility to keep track and return their specific piece of equipment.
  • Equipment taken outside the building (Outdoor rentals) includes a rental fee and a rental agreement form.

Returning Equipment

  • Any checked out equipment must be returned to the Welcome Desk after use.
  • If an individual repeatedly leaves equipment they have checked out around the facility, they may be subject to losing their equipment checkout privileges.
  • If equipment is not returned, a hold (suspension) will be placed on the membership account. The individual will not be allowed to access the facility until the equipment has been returned or the individual has paid for the equipment. Equipment pricing varies based on its type.
  • If equipment is damaged when returned, the patron may be responsible for paying a fee as determined by Wellness Center Administration.

All photography, videotaping, voice-recording, etc. within the Miller Wellness Center must be pre-approved by administration, located in room 100. Guidelines:

  • Once approved, individuals will receive a media pass that is to be worn at all times while taking photos, videos or voice-recordings in the facility. This will signify to facility staff that media access has been granted.
  • The pass must be returned to Administration at the completion of the shoot.
  • Media activity must be conducted without disruption or limitations to Miller Wellness Center operations, accessibility of equipment, entrances/exits, doorways and high traffic areas.
  • Media activity is permitted for noncommercial use only. It may not be published, sold, reproduced, distributed, or otherwise commercially exploited in any manner.
  • Taking photos, video or voice-recordings of individuals without their consent is prohibited and is cause for immediate removal from the Miller Wellness Center and may be reported to UPD, Student Conduct Office and/or Title IX Office.
  • A suitable location and schedule for media activity must be agreed upon.
  • Absolutely no photos are allowed in the lockers rooms. Capturing someone in your private image undressed or indecent can lead to criminal invasion or privacy - the act is illegal.

The Wellness Center will accept one SDSU sponsored event or recognized student organization poster to hang in the facility. Only one poster per event/organization is permitted and it may not obstruct other posted materials. All posters must be approved by Administration. The Wellness Center reserves the right to refuse posters if deemed necessary.

Facility Reservations are available to anyone. Different rates apply and are based upon one’s affiliation to SDSU. All reservations must be made at least two weeks in advance of the requested date. The Wellness Center reserves the right to deny any reservation request if this deadline is not met or at their discretion.

Spaces available for rent or special events include: A conference room, five multipurpose courts, three studios (including cycling studio), climbing wall, indoor track, outdoor field space and pool.

Interested parties can fill out the Reservation Request Form or contact the Operations and Events Coordinator. For more information, please see our Reservation and Events Policies, Rules and Guidelines.

All patrons and visitors of the Wellness Center must abide by the Harassment including Sexual Harassment Policy SDBOR Policy 1:17 and 1:18 Number 4:4. Policy and Procedure Manual

All patrons and visitors of the Wellness center must abide by the Prevention of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence and Stalking Policy SDBOR Policy 1:17.1 and 1:18 Number 4:5. Policy and Procedure Manual

Goal: Ensure members do not feel uneasy or unsafe using the Wellness Center. All reported and observed cases of suspected involvement will be investigated promptly. Consequences facing the registered sex offender member may include limited access or suspension of the facility. Sex Offender Tiers will determine access to the facility, if a formal complaint is made.

  • Tier III requires registrants to register throughout their lifetime.
    • Access to facility is not permitted due to children under age 18 using the facility
  • Tier II requires registrants to register for a minimum of twenty-five years.
    • Access to facility is not permitted due to children under age 18 using the facility.
  • Tier I requires registrants to register for a minimum of ten years.
    • Membership available but visits will be monitored.

It is the policy of SDSU to not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry gender, transgender status, marital status, pregnancy, sexual orientation age, disability, veteran’s status or any other protected class in the offering of all benefits, services and education and employment opportunities.

As part of this policy, SDSU has designated a Title IX coordinator to assist individuals with any concerns about sexual discrimination on education programs should be directed to SDSU’s Equal Opportunity Officer/ Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Administration 318. The complaints including harassment or sexual discrimination in educational programs should be directed to SDSU’s Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Administration 318. The complaint process will follow the Board of Regents Human Rights Complaints Procedures. These procedures can be found at the Office of Title IX/Equal Opportunity.

All patrons and visitor of the Wellness Center must abide by the Equal Opportunity, Non-Discrimination and Affirmative Action Policy SDBOR Policy 1:19 Number 4:3. Policy and Procedure Manual

All patrons and visitor of the Wellness Center must abide by the Human Rights Complaints Policy SDBOR Policy 1:18 Number 4:6. Policy and Procedure Manual

All policies outlined in the Student Code of Conduct will be expected and enforced. Student Code of Conduct

  • No running on deck.
  • No glass containers.
  • Staff may stop any activity deemed to be unsafe.
  • Children who are not potty trained must wear a swim diaper.
  • All children under seven years of age must have an adult (18 years and older) within arms-reach
    • 1 adult may supervise up to three children under age seven at a time.
  • All children under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Return equipment after use.
  • Small diving board use is allowed during night hours and weekends.
  • Forward facing dives ONLY.
  • High diving board is off limits
  • Diving blocks can be used if lane lines are in place on both sides of the lane.
  • No hanging on lane lines.
  • Ladders are only for entering or exiting the pool.
  • Multiple swimmers are encouraged to circle swim.
  • Miller Wellness Center Water Safety Instructors are the only persons allowed to teach swim lessons. Parents may observe swimming lessons from the bleachers.
  • For patron health and hygiene, appropriate swimwear must be always worn; clean, non-cotton athletic wear may be worn over swimsuits.
  • Undergarments are not allowed.