Youth fitness and weight training access

Learn how youth aged 13 to 17 can access city fitness areas, register for the mandatory orientation, and follow supervision rules.

Access the fitness areas

Young people aged 13 to 17 can use the fitness areas at the Tamsin Valley Leisure Centre and the Northgate Aquatic Centre. To get started, you need to complete a Youth Fitness Orientation. This short session teaches you how to use the equipment safely and covers basic fitness etiquette.

How to register for the orientation

You can sign up for a Youth Fitness Orientation in three ways:

  • Online through the Wrenford Recreation Portal
  • In person at the guest services desk of any city recreation centre
  • By calling the facility directly or dialing 311

Each orientation costs $15.00. Payment is due when you register. You can pay by credit card, debit, or cash.

What to bring and wear

On the day of your orientation, bring a completed Youth Fitness Orientation Consent Form. A parent or guardian must print and sign this form before you attend. Paper copies are available at the guest services desk, or you can download it from the recreation portal. You must also wear clean, closed-toe athletic shoes and comfortable workout clothes. The fitness areas require proper footwear for safety.

Your youth fitness wristband

After you finish the orientation, you will receive a youth fitness wristband. You must wear this wristband whenever you use the fitness areas. It acts as your proof of completion and helps staff keep track of who is allowed in the space.

If you lose your wristband, the first replacement is free. A second replacement costs $5.00. If you need a third replacement, you will need to book another orientation session and pay the $15.00 fee. You will receive a new wristband once the session is complete.

Supervision rules

Safety is our top priority. The city has clear rules about youth supervision in the fitness areas:

  • Youth aged 13 and 14 must be actively supervised by a responsible person who is 18 years of age or older. The supervision ratio is one adult to two youth.
  • Youth aged 15, 16, and 17 can use the fitness areas on their own. They do not need an adult present.

These rules apply to all fitness equipment and the indoor walking track. Staff may ask to see your wristband at any time. If you are not wearing one, or if supervision rules are not followed, you will be asked to leave the area.

General fitness area guidelines

When you are in the fitness area, please follow these simple rules:

  • Wipe down equipment after use with the provided towels and spray.
  • Return all weights and accessories to their proper racks.
  • Do not drop heavy weights on the floor.
  • Keep noise levels down so everyone can focus on their workout.
  • You must wear a wristband at all times. Staff will check for wristbands periodically.

For a full list of equipment rules and facility hours, visit the Find a City facility page. If you have questions about the Youth Fitness Orientation or need help booking a session, contact Caroline Dubé, Youth Fitness Programs Lead, at [email protected] or 519-555-0120.