Frequently Asked Questions

We warmly welcome members of all ages at the Y, though we kindly ask that children up to age 12 be supervised in certain instances:

●    Children under 10 must be supervised at all times by someone 16  or older.

●    Children ages 10–12 must be supervised by someone 16 or older in individual conditioning areas. They may use all other spaces on their own.

Youths 13 or older can use all spaces inside the YMCA on their own.

Yes! Guests of current Y members receive a preferred guest rate and can purchase a day pass at the front desk. If you and your guest need assistance accessing any of our classes or drop-in programs, our front desk staff will gladly help.

Currently, the only programs that require bookings for participation are Cyclefit, Aquafit, and Squash. For other programs, not all centres require you to book a time, but it’s generally a good idea to avoid missing out on the programming you want to participate in. Members can book Group Fitness, Rec Sports, and Aquatics time using the YGTA Shine On Health & Fitness App.

You can also book by using our live chat function (found in the bottom right corner of this website) or by emailing us. We encourage you to give our app a try, though. It’s easy and means you won’t have to wait for one of our staff to get back to you.

The YGTA Shine On Health & Fitness app can be accessed via our web portal or mobile app on Android and iOS operating systems. Click here to register your membership account with the app.

Service animals are permitted to accompany any person with a disability while accessing or using public areas of YMCA programs or services.* 

A service animal is an animal that can be readily identified as one that is being used by a person for reasons relating to the person’s disability, as a result of visual indicators such as the vest or harness worn by the animal, or the person provides documentation from a regulated health professional confirming that they require the animal for reasons relating to a disability. Pets and emotional support animals not meeting these criteria are not considered service animals and are not permitted in YMCA facilities.

To learn more about our policies on service animals, check out our Accessibility Policy. 

*Service animals are permitted, except where animals are excluded by law or where a Public Health Inspector deems it would constitute a health hazard.

Disposable sanitizing wipes are available to wipe down equipment before and after use. Staff routinely disinfect high-touch areas.

Yes, please bring a lock to ensure personal items are safe while visiting the Y. All 11 YMCA Centres of Community have lockers available for day use, and members need to bring their own lock.

Anyone using Y facilities must present photo ID upon entering to ensure the safety of members, participants, staff, and volunteers. This is especially important to ensure the safety of our underage members and children who participate in our registered programs, camps, and child care programs.

Thank you for your interest in volunteering at the YMCA of Greater Toronto!

Our volunteer opportunities are always changing; you can visit our Volunteer Opportunities page for the latest updates. If you are interested in any available positions, please complete our online volunteer application to begin the process. If you are a previous volunteer and would like to return, kindly connect directly with your staff partner. Should you have any additional questions about volunteering, please email volunteering@ymcagta.org.

All Y volunteers need to have a vulnerable sector police reference check.

If you have your own equipment, you are welcome to bring it. We also have equipment to borrow if you don’t have your own.

If you go on vacation or need an extension for another reason, you can request an extension of the remaining Personal Training sessions as long as the expiry date hasn’t passed. Please contact the Personal Training Supervisor in your centre to make the request. Extensions can be granted one time only and for a maximum of three additional months. Refunds (if applicable) are not available for sessions that have been extended.

Please visit our Personal Training page for more details and answers to your questions about the program.

Visit the Y Guide to browse available programs and make your selection, then log in to your My Y account to register. (If you don’t already have a My Y account, you can sign up to register.) Please visit the Children’s Registered Programs page to learn more about our next available sessions and important registration dates.

First, determine what level class your child should be in using the Swim Level Tool on the Children’s Registered Programs page. There, you’ll also find more information about our next available sessions and important registration dates. To sign up for swimming lessons, visit the Y Guide to find the session you want, then log in to your My Y account to register. (If you don’t already have a My Y account, you can sign up to register.)

It depends on your local Y. Some locations have a designated area where family members can watch the child, and other centres have limited space. Depending on your location, you may need to wait elsewhere until the class is over.

If your child is a beginner, they do not need to buy a uniform. Have them try the class for the first few weeks to decide if they like it first.

To cancel your registration, please log in to your My Y account.

If you have any questions, feel free to use our virtual chat function to contact our member services team.

You can upgrade to a Family or Plus membership or switch from a Plus membership to a General membership anytime. Speak with your local Y's friendly front desk staff or visit our Manage Your Membership page.

To cancel your membership, please visit the Manage Your Membership page.

YMCA Etiquette Statement: The YMCA is a shared experience for everyone to enjoy. Each of us can make it better for all by being considerate to others. YMCA members, staff and volunteers all pledge to treat one another with respect and dignity. Use of your membership card indicates agreement with YMCA etiquette.

Yes. As a charity, it’s important to us that pricing doesn’t affect your ability to enjoy the YMCA. If applicable, we encourage you to consider our Financial Assistance program.
Please visit our Financial Assistance page for more details and answers to your questions about eligibility and how to apply to the program.

The YMCA of Greater Toronto informs members of changes and updates through various communication channels, including emails, notices within the facility, and updates on our website and the Shine On app. To ensure you receive all important news, fill in all contact info in your My Y account and turn on notifications in the YGTA Shine On Health & Fitness app.

While our policy does not permit photos of minors, pictures of children can be taken by their parent or guardian. Please refer to our Photo and Video Policy for more information

In areas such as the gymnasium, conditioning floor, and studios, taking photos or videos is permitted, provided no members, guests, or staff are captured in your photo or video without their prior verbal consent. However, please note that the following are not permitted at any time: live streaming, virtual coaching, and the use of additional videography equipment, such as lighting equipment, reflective materials, and audio equipment. Please refer to our Photo and Video Policy for more information.

Taking photos, video recording, live streaming, making video calls, or capturing any imagery on any personal device is strictly prohibited in change rooms and pool areas.  Please refer to our Photo and Video Policy  for more information.