Toronto launches new reservation system for swimming pools, gyms

The City of Toronto has launched a new online reservation system for its indoor pools as well as fitness centres.

On Wednesday, Mayor John Tory said new reservation system will be ready to use on August 13, which allows residents to book an indoor lane swim at any of the city’s 29 pool locations, or a gym session at select city weight rooms and fitness centres ahead of reopening.

“City staff worked quickly to reopen the City’s aquatic amenities as soon as they received the green light from the Province. While COVID-19 has changed many of our daily routines, in some areas it has also helped us adapt and expedite our service delivery,” Tory said.

“I encourage people to consider reserving their indoor swim online in advance and making use of the expanded recreation services we have to offer.”

Fitness centres and weight rooms will reopen on August 17, but people will be able to reserve spots online beginning tomorrow, August 13. More: https://t.co/nqZ8fVh1s2

— City of Toronto (@cityoftoronto) August 12, 2020

According to the City, the capacity at indoor pools remains reduced, at 25% of regular capacity, to allow for physical distancing. This means a maximum of about six people can attend a drop-in lane swim.

“The new online tool will allow people to reserve a lane before they arrive. Spaces will continue to be made available for people who walk in or do not have access to a computer. After reserving online, people can pay their drop-in lane swim fees at the pool,” the City said.

To meet safety and health requirements, City pools continue to have enhanced cleaning protocols and physical distancing requirements — cleaning takes place every 45 minutes and patrons must stay two metres apart.

And when visiting the City’s recreation amenities, people will continue to be required to sign in, complete a health screening and provide their name and contact information to facilitate Toronto Public Health contact tracing if needed.

“Masks or other cloth face coverings must be worn in all Toronto indoor public spaces but are not required while people are swimming or exercising,” the City added.

On August 17, community fitness centres and weight rooms will be reopening to the public but drop-in programs and fitness classes are set to resume in early September.