Health & Wellness
Being healthy isn't just about working out — it's about feeling good, moving well, and building habits that stick. At the Y, we've created a fitness environment that's welcoming, well-equipped, and built to support every body.
Our fitness centres in Sudbury and North Bay offer a full range of cardio equipment, free weights, resistance machines, courts, and studios. New members can book a free orientation to get comfortable in the space, and programs like YThrive provide ongoing coaching to help you stay on track. Here, you’ll always find a staff member ready to help.
Our goals are to help educate and motivate YMCA members to choose and permanently maintain healthy lifestyle changes. We are committed to increasing your understanding of what it really means to be “optimally” well and “functionally” fit. We look forward to assisting you to become healthier to improve your quality of life!
Group Fitness
Group fitness at the Y spans every style and energy level. Find a class you love and build a routine around it — with certified instructors cheering you on every step of the way.
Personal Training
Want a more customized approach? Our certified personal trainers will work with you to set goals, design a program, and keep you accountable — on your schedule, at your pace.
YThrive
Included with your Y Experience Membership, YThrive pairs you with a coach who builds your workout plan and supports your progress over six months. No extra cost — just results.
Small Steps for Big Changes
A free, evidence-based program that helps you make lasting diet and exercise changes, with one-on-one support from a trained coach to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Y@Home+
The Y, wherever you are. Y@Home+ gives Y Experience Members access to live and on-demand fitness classes, wellness programs, and family activities — all from the comfort of home.
Squash
Book a court and play. Whether you’re after a high-intensity workout or a friendly match, our courts are open to players of every skill level.
Pickleball
Pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong. It’s played on a badminton-sized court with a low net, using solid paddles and a perforated plastic ball. Simple enough to pick up in one session, and paced to suit every age and ability.
Frequently Asked Questions
I'm new to the Y — where do I start?
A great first step is a Fitness Centre orientation, where staff will walk you through the equipment, proper technique, and member etiquette so you feel confident from day one. If you’re looking for more structured support, YThrive is a 6-month coaching program included in your Y Experience Membership that pairs you with a coach and a personalized workout plan.
What should I wear?
Appropriate athletic clothing and clean, closed-toe, rubber-soled shoes are required in the fitness centre, gymnasium, and courts — street shoes are not permitted. For group fitness classes, comfortable workout attire and the same footwear applies. In the pool and therapy pool, a proper swimsuit is required; cut-offs and gym shorts are not permitted. For squash and racquetball, eye guards are strongly recommended.
Are lockers available, and can I leave my belongings overnight?
Lockers are available for day use only. Any items left in a locker overnight will be removed. The YMCA is not responsible for lost or stolen items, so we recommend leaving valuables at home.
Which change room should I use?
We respect the right of individuals to use the washrooms and change rooms that match their lived gender identity. Each of our branches offers both gendered change rooms and a Universal Changeroom, available to all users, including families with children of all ages and members with special needs who require assistance from a caregiver. Private change stalls are also available within the Universal Changeroom for anyone who prefers added privacy. Full coverage is required at all times outside of the change stalls.
Families also have the option to use the general change rooms. In compliance with our Safeguarding Children Policy, all children ages 9 and under must be accompanied by an adult age 16 or older at all times, including in washrooms and change rooms. Parents and caregivers with children ages 9 and under who are not of the same gender should use the Universal Changerooms. Children ages 9 and under may not access the change rooms alone.
Can I use my cell phone in the facility?
Cell phones are welcome in common areas such as the lobby and hallways. Out of respect for the privacy and comfort of all members, cell phone use — including calls, texting, and photography — is not permitted in locker rooms, change rooms, washrooms, or pool areas. In fitness and workout areas, we ask that you be courteous of other members: use headphones for music, keep calls brief, and step away from equipment if you need to take a call.
Is financial support available?
Yes — financial assistance is available for those who need it. No one should be unable to access the Y because of cost. Apply through the online portal or speak with our team at the Member Services Desk.
Can I try the Y before committing to a membership?
Absolutely! From time to time, we offer special promotions that provide opportunities to experience the Y before committing to a membership. Day passes are also available. Check our website or connect with your local YMCA to learn about current offers and promotions.
Are personal trainers available?
Yes — Personal Trainers are on-site and training packages can be purchased for a more customized approach to reaching your goals.
What is the cancellation and refund policy for Health & Wellness programs?
Cancellation requests received at least 14 days before the start of the program will receive a refund minus an administration fee of $25 per program being cancelled.
Cancellation requests received with less than 14 days’ notice will receive a refund minus an administration fee of 50% of the cost of the program being cancelled. Cancellation requests that are received less than 48 hours prior to the start of the program being requested to cancel will not qualify for a refund.
For cancellations due to medical reasons, a doctor’s note is required to waive the cancellation policy.
