Randolph AFB Gym & Rambler Fitness Center: Complete Guide to Hours, Classes & Amenities (2025)
Your complete guide to the Randolph AFB Rambler Fitness Center - hours, group classes, equipment, sports programs, and fitness tips for military members during TDY and PCS.
Stationed at or visiting Randolph Air Force Base? Staying fit during TDY, PCS, or your permanent assignment is crucial for maintaining readiness and wellness. The Rambler Fitness Center at JBSA-Randolph offers 100+ cardio machines, 110+ weight machines, group fitness classes, basketball courts, and much more—all free for eligible military members and families. Need lodging near base? Check out our Randolph AFB crash pads.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Rambler Fitness Center, from hours and amenities to class schedules and insider tips for staying in shape during your time at Randolph AFB.
Quick Reference: Rambler Fitness Center
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | 1751 1st Street East, Building 999, Randolph AFB, TX 78150 |
| Phone | 210-652-7263 |
| Hours | Mon–Fri: 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Sat–Sun: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 24/7 Access: Holidays & after hours (fitness floor only) |
| Membership | Free for active duty, dependents, retirees, DoD civilians |
| Group Classes | $3/class or multi-class passes available |
💡 Pro Tip: The fitness center is least crowded from 9:00 a.m.–11:00 a.m. on weekdays—perfect if you have a flexible schedule or are on TDY!
About the Rambler Fitness Center
The Rambler Fitness Center is named after the original "Randolph Ramblers," the base's historic flying training squadron. The modern facility opened in 2007 and has since been a cornerstone of health and wellness for the JBSA-Randolph community.
With over 100 cardio machines, 110 weight machines, basketball courts, an indoor track, and group exercise studios, the Rambler Fitness Center rivals most commercial gyms—but it's 100% free for military members and their families.
Facilities & Equipment
Cardio Equipment (100+ Machines)
The cardio area features a wide variety of machines to suit any preference:
Treadmills
- 30+ treadmills with individual TV screens
- Varying incline and speed settings
- Great for running, jogging, or walking
Ellipticals
- 20+ elliptical machines
- Low-impact cardio for joint-friendly workouts
Stationary Bikes
- Upright bikes and recumbent bikes
- Perfect for cycling enthusiasts or injury recovery
Rowing Machines
- Full-body cardio and strength training
- Great for CrossFit-style workouts
StairMasters & Arc Trainers
- High-intensity cardio for leg and glute development
- Burns more calories than traditional machines
VersaClimbers
- Total-body vertical climbing machines
- Popular with tactical athletes
📺 Entertainment: Most cardio machines have built-in TVs—bring headphones to watch cable channels while you work out!
Strength Training (110+ Weight Machines)
The weight room is divided into machine-based training and free weight zones:
Machine-Based Equipment:
- Chest press, shoulder press, lat pulldown
- Leg press, leg curl, leg extension
- Cable machines (high and low)
- Smith machines
- Assisted pull-up/dip machine
Free Weight Zone:
- Dumbbells (5 lbs – 120 lbs)
- Olympic barbells and bumper plates
- Squat racks (4 stations)
- Bench press stations (flat, incline, decline)
- Power racks for deadlifts and Olympic lifts
- Kettlebells (10 lbs – 70 lbs)
- Medicine balls, resistance bands, TRX straps
Pro Tip: The free weight area gets busy during lunch (11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.) and after work (4:30 p.m.–6:30 p.m.)—plan accordingly!
Indoor Track
The Rambler Fitness Center features an indoor elevated track that circles the gym floor:
- Distance: Approximately 10 laps = 1 mile
- Surface: Rubberized running surface (easy on joints)
- Climate-controlled: Perfect for hot Texas summers or rainy days
- Direction: Alternates daily (clockwise one day, counterclockwise the next to prevent repetitive stress injuries)
Best For:
- Running in extreme weather
- Walking during PT test prep
- Low-impact cardio
Functional Fitness Area
The functional fitness zone includes:
- Battle ropes
- Plyo boxes (various heights)
- Slam balls and wall balls
- Agility ladders and cones
- Sled push/pull equipment (outdoor turf area)
- Suspension trainers (TRX)
- Foam rollers and stretching mats
Great for:
- CrossFit-style WODs
- Tactical fitness training
- Sports-specific conditioning
- Injury prevention and recovery
Basketball Courts
The Rambler Fitness Center has two full-size indoor basketball courts:
✅ Court 1: Regulation NBA-size court
✅ Court 2: Multi-use court (basketball, volleyball, pickleball)
Court Hours:
- Available during open gym hours
- Reserved for intramural games and tournaments (check schedule)
- First-come, first-served when not reserved
What to Bring:
- Athletic shoes (non-marking soles required)
- Water bottle
- Basketball (or borrow from the front desk with ID)
🏀 Intramural Leagues: The fitness center runs seasonal basketball leagues—sign up at the front desk or visit the JBSA MWR website.
Outdoor Facilities
In addition to the main indoor facility, Randolph AFB has several outdoor fitness options:
Outdoor Track
- Location: Adjacent to the fitness center
- Surface: All-weather track
- Distance: 400 meters (4 laps = 1 mile)
- Lights: Yes (for early morning/evening PT)
Outdoor Turf Area
- Functional fitness equipment (sleds, ropes, tires)
- Perfect for outdoor WODs and team PT
- Shaded areas available
Par Course
- 1.5-mile fitness trail with exercise stations
- Bodyweight exercises (pull-ups, dips, step-ups)
- Great for mixing cardio and strength training
Sports Fields
- Softball fields (2)
- Football/soccer field (1)
- Tennis courts (4)
- Pickleball courts (6)
- Sand volleyball courts (2)
Group Fitness Classes
The Rambler Fitness Center offers 20+ group fitness classes per week, taught by certified instructors. Classes are held in dedicated studio spaces with mirrors, sound systems, and climate control.
Class Schedule (Typical Week)
| Class | Days | Time | Instructor | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kickboxing | Mon/Wed/Fri | 6:00 a.m. | Various | $3 |
| Yoga (Vinyasa) | Tue/Thu | 6:00 a.m. | Various | $3 |
| Zumba | Mon/Wed | 5:30 p.m. | Various | $3 |
| Pilates | Tue/Thu | 11:00 a.m. | Various | $3 |
| Cycling (Spin) | Mon/Wed/Fri | 5:00 p.m. | Various | $3 |
| Yoga (Restorative) | Saturday | 9:30 a.m. | Various | $3 |
| Boot Camp | Tue/Thu | 6:30 a.m. | Various | $3 |
| Step Aerobics | Wed/Fri | 11:00 a.m. | Various | $3 |
| Senior Strength | Mon/Wed | 10:00 a.m. | Various | Free |
📅 Note: Class schedules change quarterly. Check the current schedule at the front desk or call 210-652-7263.
Class Descriptions
🥊 Kickboxing
- Intensity: High
- Format: Cardio kickboxing with punch/kick combos
- What to Bring: Water, towel, athletic shoes
- Great For: Stress relief, cardio endurance, full-body workout
🧘 Yoga (Vinyasa & Restorative)
- Intensity: Low to Moderate
- Format: Flow-based yoga (Vinyasa) or slow stretching (Restorative)
- What to Bring: Yoga mat (or borrow from gym), water
- Great For: Flexibility, stress reduction, injury recovery
💃 Zumba
- Intensity: Moderate to High
- Format: Dance-based cardio with Latin music
- What to Bring: Water, comfortable shoes, towel
- Great For: Fun cardio workout, coordination, burning calories
🧘♀️ Pilates
- Intensity: Moderate
- Format: Core-focused strength and flexibility
- What to Bring: Mat (provided), water
- Great For: Core strength, posture, injury prevention
🚴 Cycling (Spin)
- Intensity: High
- Format: Indoor cycling with interval training
- What to Bring: Water, towel, cycling shoes (optional—clips available)
- Great For: Cardio endurance, leg strength, PT test prep
⛺ Boot Camp
- Intensity: High
- Format: Circuit training with bodyweight and functional exercises
- What to Bring: Water, towel, athletic shoes
- Great For: Full-body conditioning, building mental toughness
👴 Senior Strength
- Intensity: Low
- Format: Resistance training and balance exercises for older adults
- What to Bring: Water, comfortable clothes
- Great For: Maintaining mobility, preventing falls, active aging
Class Passes & Pricing
Single Class: $3 per class (pay at front desk before class)
Multi-Class Passes:
- 10-Class Pass: $25 ($2.50/class—save 17%!)
- 20-Class Pass: $45 ($2.25/class—save 25%!)
- Unlimited Monthly Pass: $60 (attend unlimited classes)
Free Classes:
- Senior Strength Training (Mon/Wed 10:00 a.m.)
- Special workshops (occasionally offered)
💰 Cost Savings Tip: If you attend classes 3+ times per week, the unlimited monthly pass saves you money—and it's still cheaper than a civilian gym membership!
Personal Training & Fitness Assessments
The Rambler Fitness Center offers personalized fitness services:
Personal Training
What's Included:
- One-on-one training sessions
- Customized workout programs
- Nutrition guidance
- Goal setting and accountability
Cost:
- Single Session: $30/hour
- 10-Session Package: $250 ($25/session)
- 20-Session Package: $450 ($22.50/session)
How to Sign Up:
- Visit the front desk
- Schedule a free consultation
- Choose a certified personal trainer
Best For:
- Beginners who need guidance
- PT test prep (pushups, sit-ups, run)
- Injury recovery or special needs
- Breaking through plateaus
Body Composition Analysis
Free Service:
- InBody scan (measures body fat %, muscle mass, water weight)
- Conducted by fitness staff
- Provides detailed printout of results
- Re-test every 30 days to track progress
How to Schedule:
- Call 210-652-7263 or visit the front desk
- Appointments available Mon–Fri
- Takes 5–10 minutes
PT Test Prep Program
Free Program:
- Designed to help you pass or max your PT test
- Focuses on pushups, sit-ups, and 1.5-mile run
- Group sessions: Tue/Thu 6:30 a.m. (Boot Camp format)
- Individual plans available from personal trainers
Tips for Success:
- Start training 8–12 weeks before your test
- Test yourself weekly to track progress
- Focus on form (quality over quantity)
- Mix cardio and strength training
- Rest and recover (don't overtrain!)
Sports & Recreation Programs
The 502nd Force Support Squadron runs a robust sports and recreation program at Randolph AFB:
Intramural Sports Leagues
Seasonal Sports:
- Basketball (Fall, Winter, Spring)
- Softball (Spring, Summer)
- Flag Football (Fall)
- Volleyball (Year-round)
- Soccer (Spring, Fall)
How to Join:
- Sign up as an individual (placed on a team)
- Register as a team (need 8–12 players depending on sport)
- Registration opens 4–6 weeks before season starts
- Check JBSA MWR website or call the fitness center
Cost: Free for active duty; $5–$10 for civilians/dependents
Open Gym & Recreation
Drop-In Sports:
- Basketball: Mon/Wed/Fri 6:00–8:00 p.m.
- Volleyball: Tue/Thu 6:00–8:00 p.m.
- Pickleball: Daily (outdoor courts, weather permitting)
Special Events & Challenges
The fitness center hosts several annual events:
- Fitness Challenges: Monthly themes (pushup challenge, plank challenge, mileage challenge)
- 5K Fun Runs: Quarterly (usually Saturday mornings)
- Spartan/Obstacle Course Races: Once per year (off-base event, discounted tickets through ITT)
- Turkey Trot: Thanksgiving Day 5K (free, family-friendly)
Locker Rooms & Amenities
Men's & Women's Locker Rooms
Facilities:
- Full-size lockers (bring your own lock or rent from front desk)
- Showers (private stalls with curtains)
- Saunas (dry heat, not steam)
- Restrooms
- Hair dryers
- Benches and changing areas
What to Bring:
- Towel (or rent from front desk for $1)
- Lock (or rent from front desk for $5 deposit)
- Toiletries (soap, shampoo, deodorant)
- Sandals (for shower)
🚿 Shower Tip: The gym provides soap dispensers, but bring your own if you have sensitive skin or prefer a specific brand.
Family Room
The Rambler Fitness Center has a small family room for parents who want to work out while keeping an eye on young children:
- Located adjacent to the main gym floor
- Toys, books, and a TV with kids' programming
- Viewing window to monitor kids while exercising
- Ages: 6 months – 10 years
- Hours: Same as gym hours
- Cost: Free
Rules:
- Parents must remain in the gym (within eyesight of family room)
- Maximum 2-hour stay per day
- Children must be well-behaved (gym staff reserves right to ask parents to remove disruptive children)
Hours of Operation
Regular Hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Tuesday | 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Wednesday | 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Thursday | 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Friday | 5:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. |
| Saturday | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
| Sunday | 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. |
24/7 Access
After-hours and holidays, the fitness center offers 24/7 access to the main workout floor:
✅ What's Open:
- Cardio equipment
- Weight machines and free weights
- Indoor track
- Locker rooms (restrooms only, showers closed)
❌ What's Closed:
- Front desk (unstaffed)
- Group fitness studios
- Basketball courts
- Family room
How to Access:
- Use your CAC or military ID at the automated door
- Must be 18+ to use 24/7 access (no dependents under 18 without supervision)
Holiday Hours
The fitness center is open 24/7 on federal holidays, but staffed hours may vary:
- New Year's Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas: 24/7 access only (no staff)
- All other federal holidays: Regular hours
📅 Tip: Call ahead (210-652-7263) to confirm holiday hours before visiting.
Best Times to Visit (Avoid the Crowds)
The Rambler Fitness Center can get packed during certain times. Here's when it's most and least crowded:
✅ Least Crowded (Best Times):
- Early Morning (5:00–7:00 a.m.): Only the most dedicated gym-goers
- Mid-Morning (9:00–11:00 a.m.): Perfect for TDY members or shift workers
- Early Afternoon (1:00–3:00 p.m.): After lunch rush, before after-work crowd
- Late Evening (7:30–9:00 p.m.): Most people have gone home
- Weekends (Sat/Sun mornings): Surprisingly quiet on Saturday mornings
❌ Most Crowded (Avoid If Possible):
- Lunch Rush (11:30 a.m.–1:00 p.m.): Everyone squeezes in a workout
- After Work (4:30–6:30 p.m.): Peak time—every machine is taken
- Monday Evenings: "Monday Motivation" brings extra crowds
- New Year (Jan 1–Feb 15): Resolution season packs the gym
TDY/PCS Members:
If you're on TDY or PCS house-hunting and staying at a crash pad, take advantage of flexible gym hours:
- Work out during mid-morning (9:00–11:00 a.m.) when others are at work
- Use 24/7 access if you're a night owl or early riser
- Avoid weekday 4:30–6:30 p.m. if you hate waiting for equipment
Staying at a crash pad near Randolph AFB? Book a place within 10–15 minutes of the gym for easy access:
👉 Find Crash Pads Near Randolph AFB on DoDCrashPads.com
Who Can Use the Rambler Fitness Center?
Eligible Users (Free Access):
✅ Active Duty Military (all branches)
✅ Reserve & National Guard (with valid ID)
✅ Retired Military
✅ 100% Disabled Veterans
✅ DoD Civilians (stationed at JBSA-Randolph)
✅ Military Dependents (ages 14+ with dependent ID; ages 10–13 with parent supervision)
Guest Policy:
Civilians (non-DoD affiliated):
- Cannot use the fitness center unless sponsored by an eligible member
- Day pass: $5 (sponsor must be present)
- 30-Day pass: $40 (for frequent visitors, e.g., contractors working on base)
How to Sponsor a Guest:
- Sign in at the front desk with your CAC/ID
- Guest must show valid photo ID
- Pay $5 day pass fee
- Guest must stay with sponsor during entire visit
Fitness Tips for TDY & PCS Members
Staying Fit During TDY
Challenge: You're on TDY for 30–90 days and want to maintain your fitness routine.
Solution:
- Visit the gym on Day 1 to familiarize yourself with equipment and hours
- Set a schedule: Treat workouts like appointments (non-negotiable)
- Join group classes: Great way to meet other military members and stay accountable
- Track your progress: Use a fitness app or journal
- Stay near the gym: Book a crash pad within 10 minutes of the fitness center on DoDCrashPads.com—no excuses!
PCS House-Hunting Fitness
Challenge: You're house-hunting and living in temporary lodging—your routine is disrupted.
Solution:
- Use the gym to de-stress after a long day of house viewings
- Morning workouts: Hit the gym before real estate appointments
- Bring workout clothes: Keep a gym bag in your car for spontaneous sessions
- Utilize 24/7 access: Work out late if you're house-hunting all day
Pro Tip: If staying in a crash pad with a yard or patio, do bodyweight workouts (pushups, burpees, squats) on days you can't make it to the gym.
Maintaining PT Test Readiness
Challenge: Your PT test is coming up, but you're in the middle of a PCS/TDY.
Solution:
- Join the PT Prep Program (Tue/Thu 6:30 a.m.)
- Test yourself weekly: Run the track, do timed pushups/sit-ups
- Focus on weak areas: If you struggle with running, prioritize cardio
- Don't skip workouts: Consistency is key—even 30 minutes is better than nothing
- Get enough sleep: If you're staying at a quiet crash pad (vs. noisy hotel), you'll recover better
Gym Etiquette & Rules
General Rules:
✅ DO:
- Wipe down equipment after use (spray bottles provided)
- Re-rack weights and dumbbells
- Use a towel (drape on equipment to mark your spot during supersets)
- Wear appropriate athletic attire (closed-toe shoes required)
- Respect others' personal space
❌ DON'T:
- Drop weights (unless in designated Olympic lifting area)
- Hog equipment (30-minute limit on cardio machines during peak hours)
- Use your phone loudly (take calls outside)
- Wear inappropriate clothing (no jeans, boots, or sandals)
- Leave personal belongings unattended
Dress Code:
Allowed:
- Athletic shorts, pants, or leggings
- Athletic shirts, tank tops, or t-shirts
- Athletic shoes (closed-toe, non-marking soles)
Not Allowed:
- Jeans or cargo pants
- Boots or sandals
- "Cutoff" shirts that expose the torso excessively
- Offensive or inappropriate graphics on clothing
Other Fitness Facilities at Randolph AFB
In addition to the Rambler Fitness Center, JBSA-Randolph has several other fitness-related facilities:
Outdoor Pool (Seasonal)
Location: Near the fitness center
Hours: Summer only (Memorial Day – Labor Day)
Admission: Free for military/dependents
Amenities:
- Olympic-size lap pool
- Diving boards
- Kiddie pool
- Sunbathing area
- Concessions
Auto Hobby Shop
Location: Building 1008
Hours: Tue–Sat 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Services:
- DIY car repair bays
- Tool rental
- Lift access
- Welding equipment
Cost: $5/hour (tools included)
Arts & Crafts Center
Location: Building 898
Hours: Tue–Sat 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Services:
- Pottery studio
- Woodworking shop
- Framing services
- Craft classes
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I bring a friend who's not military?
Yes, but you must sponsor them:
- Pay $5 day pass at the front desk
- You must stay with your guest during their entire visit
- Guest must show valid photo ID
Do I need to bring my own towel?
No, but it's recommended. The gym has towels available to rent for $1, but bringing your own ensures you always have one.
Are personal trainers available?
Yes, certified personal trainers are available for one-on-one sessions. Pricing starts at $30/hour or package deals for 10–20 sessions.
Can I use the gym if I'm on TDY at Randolph?
Absolutely! Active-duty members on TDY orders can use any Air Force fitness center nationwide—just show your CAC at the door.
Is there childcare at the gym?
Not full childcare, but there is a family room where you can place young children (6 months – 10 years) while you work out within eyesight of the room. You must remain in the gym at all times.
What if I'm injured or have special needs?
The fitness center staff includes certified trainers who can help design modified workouts for injuries or disabilities. Schedule a free consultation at the front desk.
Are protein shakes or supplements sold at the gym?
No, the fitness center does not sell supplements. However, the Base Exchange (BX) has a GNC store with a full selection of protein powders, pre-workouts, and vitamins. (See our Commissary & BX guide)
Staying Fit While Living at a Crash Pad
If you're on TDY or PCS house-hunting and staying at a crash pad near Randolph AFB, here's how to maintain your fitness routine:
Home Workouts
Many crash pads on DoDCrashPads.com have:
- Yards or patios (perfect for outdoor bodyweight workouts)
- Garages (set up a small home gym)
- Living rooms (yoga, stretching, online workout videos)
Sample 30-Minute Home Workout (No Equipment):
- Warm-up: Jumping jacks, high knees (5 min)
- Circuit (repeat 3x):
- 20 pushups
- 30 squats
- 15 burpees
- 30-second plank
- 20 mountain climbers
- Cool-down: Stretching (5 min)
Proximity to the Gym
When booking a crash pad, prioritize locations within 10–15 minutes of the Rambler Fitness Center:
Best Neighborhoods:
- Universal City (5–10 min drive)
- Schertz (10–15 min drive)
- Cibolo (12–18 min drive)
Why It Matters:
- ✅ No excuses to skip workouts
- ✅ Easy to fit gym visits into house-hunting schedule
- ✅ Save time and gas
Nutrition Support
Staying at a crash pad with a full kitchen? Meal prep your fitness nutrition:
High-Protein, Easy Meals:
- Grilled chicken with rice and veggies (prep on Sunday for the week)
- Overnight oats with protein powder (breakfast)
- Greek yogurt with fruit and nuts (snack)
- Tuna or chicken salad wraps (lunch)
Shop at the commissary for affordable groceries (see our Commissary Guide).
Final Tips for Using the Rambler Fitness Center
1. Start Your Day with a Workout
Morning workouts boost energy, improve focus, and ensure you won't skip the gym due to "end-of-day fatigue."
2. Mix Cardio and Strength
Don't just run—incorporate strength training to build muscle, prevent injuries, and improve overall fitness.
3. Join a Class
Group fitness classes provide accountability, motivation, and a sense of community—especially valuable during TDY when you don't know anyone.
4. Track Your Progress
Use a fitness app (MyFitnessPal, JEFIT, Fitbod) or a simple notebook to log workouts and see improvement over time.
5. Rest and Recover
Fitness happens during recovery, not just in the gym. Get 7–9 hours of sleep and take 1–2 rest days per week.
Conclusion: Stay Mission-Ready at the Rambler Fitness Center
The Rambler Fitness Center at JBSA-Randolph is a world-class facility offering everything you need to stay fit, healthy, and mission-ready—whether you're permanently stationed, on TDY, or PCSing to Randolph AFB.
With 100+ cardio machines, 110+ weight machines, group classes, basketball courts, and 24/7 access, there's no excuse to skip your fitness routine.
Pro Tip: If you're on TDY or PCS house-hunting, book a crash pad near the gym for maximum convenience:
👉 Find Military-Friendly Crash Pads Near Randolph AFB on DoDCrashPads.com
📌 Bookmark this guide and share it with fellow airmen at Randolph AFB!
🔔 Stay Updated: Gym hours and class schedules are subject to change—always call ahead (210-652-7263) or check the JBSA MWR website before visiting.
Last updated: November 12, 2025 | Information sourced from official JBSA and 502nd Force Support Squadron resources
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