Update on MAC Closure / Reopening

Masks now required always - including while exercising

One change we do know will be in place whenever we reopen: mandatory masking at all times for recreation users, whether visiting the fitness centre or taking part in ‘drop-in’ basketball.

This change reflects the latest  (PDF file) Toronto Public Health guidance for sport and recreational fitness facilities (external link)  for the 'Red / Control' level, and masks will now be required from the moment students and members enter our facility to the moment they leave, including while exercising. Previously, users were required to wear a mask/face covering in common spaces, and encouraged but not required to do so while exercising.

The new masking requirements incorporate the latest research (external link)  on both the efficacy of masks at reducing the transmission of infection in spaces and programs like ours, as well as the shift in understanding (external link)  surrounding initial health concerns related to wearing a mask while working out. The Mayo Clinic Health System has a great FAQ on wearing a mask while exercising (external link)  to guide you. 

As in November, pre-reservation of workout/drop-in sport slots will be required and our facility will be limited to 10 people per space while under 'Red / Control' measures. Given the capacity restrictions, facility use will continue to be limited to Ryerson students and faculty/staff with memberships.

Physical activity as well-being and learning strategies

Regular physical activity remains one of your best well-being and learning strategies, proven to bolster your creativity, recall, attention and understanding, as well as your mood, sleep and digestion.

We are committed to providing opportunities for students to get active and build community, whether in-person, in your neighbourhood or online - and doing so safely. Across the fall term, we welcomed over 8,000 visitors to the MAC with no recorded transmission of any infections within our facilities or operations.

Rest assured that, when we do reopen, the safety of our students, members and staff will remain our top priority, and we will continue to work with our partners in Public Health, the Ontario government and City of Toronto to ensure we are in compliance with all safety directives and guidelines. Should Toronto move into a different level of the framework, we will adjust capacities and operations accordingly.

Look for announcements surrounding the return of our Neighbourhood Movement Meetups and the reopening of the MAC in the coming weeks, or whenever permitted in Toronto. In the interim, our Move Everywhere: Online offerings featuring live Zoom fitness classes, student-led Zoom Fitness Social, and on-demand movement breaks are ready to keep you feeling and thinking your best.