Gabriela Dager Anderson
Gabriela Dager Anderson
RecReady
As someone who has experienced the ups and downs of staying consistent with fitness, I was driven by a desire to make the gym feel less intimidating and more motivating especially for students like myself. This led me to ask: “How might we develop a more efficient and convenient gym experience to increase motivation and comfort?” That question became the foundation for RecReady, a mobile app created for UIC Rec Center members.
Each feature of RecReady is informed by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, addressing both functional and emotional user motivations. The Crowdedness Tracker supports physical comfort and planning (safety needs), while the Progress Tracker, Leaderboards, and GymJam fulfill social belonging and esteem through community, recognition, and friendly competition. For newcomers, the Gym Map and tutorials help reduce anxiety and build confidence, addressing psychological safety and self-efficacy.
By aligning with these fundamental human needs, RecReady transforms the gym into more than a space for exercise—it becomes a motivating, inclusive environment for growth. Through thoughtful, user-centered design, the app empowers students to stay consistent, connected, and confident in their fitness journey.
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