A guide to staying fit during the pandemic
These unprecedented times have given us a valid excuse for unprecedented levels of inactivity. However, as September marked the start of a new chapter for many students, so too has it pushed us to get back in shape. While health guidelines and provincial restrictions still pose challenges, here are some ways we can currently pump the iron around campus.
As of September 8, the Athletic Centre, Goldring Centre, Varsity Centre, and Back Campus have all re-opened for limited services. Entrances have been modified and hand sanitizer stations have been equipped in compliance with guidelines from the City of Toronto. Appointments to use workout facilities must be booked for these locations in advance. Keep in mind that when making an appointment, you’re making it for a specific area of the gym: either a squat rack, free weights, machine circuit, or the cardio machines. Also note that a pre-visit screening form must be completed before accessing any facilities, and that the campus mask policy is in effect when you are not exercising.
Furthermore, external rentals of space are not being accepted until at least September 30 or until further notice. Swimming lanes remain open for booking in compliance with city guidelines, and workout classes may still be booked and performed either online or in-person (you may have already seen some of these classes as you walk through Queen’s Park).
Intramurals are also back on, albeit in a limited capacity. Available sports include table tennis, dodgeball, spikeball, bocce ball, badminton, “washer toss,” and “Amazing Race.” There are also eSports intramurals being offered on PS4 and Xbox for FIFA, NHL, and NBA.
If you’re looking to go off-campus, many other options remain open. GoodLife Fitness has locations across the nation (the closest one to the campus is at Bay and Bloor) and follows a similar health policy as the campus facilities. The exception is that if you book an appointment, you will have access to all areas of the gym. YMCA Health & Fitness centres are also re-opening for members, with the caveat that you may only work out at your “home gym,” rather than using several YMCA facilities. The closest YMCA location to campus is the Central YMCA at 20 Grosvenor St. near Yonge and College.
If your budget is more flexible, many other private gyms are open and close to campus, such as Equinox and Barry’s Bootcamp, both located in Yorkville. If being indoors isn’t your jam, the Don Valley and Lakeshore both provide excellent lanes for running and cycling, and much of the traffic was actually diverted from these areas over the summer. Public basketball courts, baseball diamonds, and track fields also remain open in Toronto, and participants of such facilities are instructed to follow basic health guidelines.
General tips for the gym:
- Bring your own water bottle.
- Bring your own lock, towel, yoga mat, or other fitness equipment. These are generally not currently offered by gyms.
- Sanitize all equipment before and after using it. Sanitized wipes and/or sanitized spray are available at multiple locations in every gym.
