Rec 101

What’s Available at the TMU Pool?

Located in the RAC, the pool is a great place for casual swimmers, fitness swimmers, or those wanting to improve their skills in the water.

Pool programming includes:

• Lane Swim: Swim laps in the slow, medium, or fast lane
• Rec Swim: Relaxed, unstructured swim time with instructors available for technique coaching
• Swim Lessons: Beginner group lessons and 1-on-1 private lessons available during the school year
• Trans & Gender-Diverse Swim: Safe, welcoming space for trans, nonbinary, and allied swimmers
• Women’s Only Swim: Private recreational swims lifeguarded by women

More information is available about the Pool Schedule and Swim Lessons.

What to Bring:

• Swimsuit 
• Towel
• Goggles (optional, but recommended)
• Flip flops (optional, but recommended)

Pool Etiquette:

• Shower before entering the pool
• Follow lane direction and pace during lane swims
• Respect shared space and posted rules
• No outdoor footwear on deck
• When in doubt, refer to the Community Standards of Respect and Inclusion

First Time?

Let the lifeguard know it's your first time at the pool. They’ll be happy to orient you to the slow / medium / fast lanes and some of the equipment available.

Questions?

Email aquatics@torontomu.ca or visit the TMU Aquatics page

What are Drop-In Sports?

Drop-in sports are casual, flexible play sessions where you can show up, join a game, and leave when you're ready - no set teams, no registration, and no commitment required. It's the perfect option for anyone looking to stay active, meet new people, and have fun in a relaxed environment.

Drop-In Sports are free for TMU students and RAC / MAC Members.

Drop-in Sport Formats

Drop-in sports are offered in a variety of formats:

• Traditional Drop-in: for anyone who wants casual gameplay. 
• Facilitated Drop-in: for anyone looking for a structured game experience. 
• Learn To Play Sports: for anyone looking to learn how to play a new sport.
• Women's Only Drop-in: for anyone who identifies as a woman.
• 2SLGBTQ+ Drop-in: for any members or allies of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.

Sports Available:

• Badminton
• Basketball
• Cricket
• Free Skate
• Pickleball
• Shinny
• Soccer
• Table Tennis
• Volleyball

More information is available in the Drop-In Sports schedule.

Etiquette & Tips:

• Respect the court space and other players
• Ask staff or other players if you're unsure about the rules or format
• When in doubt, refer to the Community Standards of Respect and Inclusion

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Customer Service Desk or email: recreation@torontomu.ca

What is Group Fitness?

Group fitness classes at TMU are dynamic, instructor-led sessions designed to help you move, sweat, and have fun in a welcoming and energizing environment. Whether you are new to fitness or already have an established routine, our classes are built to be inclusive and accessible for everyone. No registration required - just drop in and join the movement!

Group Fitness classes are free for TMU students and RAC / MAC Members.

Classes Available:

• Yoga & Meditation, Yoga Flow, Strength Yoga, Pose + Prana
• Pilates & HIIT Pilates
• Dance Fitness: Zumba, Jazz Funk, Hip Hop, danceFIRE, Dance Party
• Barre, Stretch & Flex 
• Cardio & Muscle Pump, Bootcamp, Circuit Training
• Spin & Stretch, Spin & Sculpt, Spin + Core
• Women's Only Classes
• Rainbow Series Classes    

See the full schedule here.

What to Expect:

• 45 - 60 minute classes
• Drop-In Style: first-come, first-serve basis (no pre-registrations)
• Arrive 5 - 10 minutes early to secure your spot

Etiquette & Tips:

• Be respectful of others and avoid phone use during class
• Try to arrive early; late entry beyond 10–15 minutes is discouraged
• Let instructors know if it’s your first class or if you need support
• When in doubt, refer to the Community Standards of Respect and Inclusion

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Customer Service Desk or email: recreation@torontomu.ca

What are Intramurals?

Intramurals are structured, team-based leagues for TMU students and members looking to play sports in a fun and inclusive environment. You can join with friends or sign up solo as a "free agent."

Intramurals are free for TMU students and RAC / MAC Members.

Popular Sports Offered:

• Basketball (3v3 and 5v5)
• Volleyball (Mixed, Men’s, and Women’s 6s)
• Soccer (indoor)
• Dodgeball
• Badminton (Singles & Doubles)
• Pickleball
• Flag Football
• Table Tennis
• Flag Football
• Cricket

See a complete list here.

What to Expect:

• Teams play weekly on scheduled days and times
• Players register (external link)  in advance as a team or individual
• Leagues run in both the Fall and Winter semesters
• Some equipment may be provided depending on the sport

Etiquette & Tips:

• Most leagues require a minimum number of players per team
• Team Captains must attend a meeting before leagues start
• Registration opens late August for Fall and early January for Winter—don’t miss the deadline!
• Free Agent Night helps solo players get matched; email intramurals@torontomu.ca for more information
• When in doubt, refer to the Community Standards of Respect and Inclusion

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Customer Service Desk or email intramurals@torontomu.ca

What are "Learn To" Programs?

Learn To programs at TMU offer a structured way to master a new skill or technique through progressive, small-group instruction. These programs run over several weeks and focus on personal development, confidence building, and community.

Learn To Programs are available to TMU students and RAC / MAC Members for a small fee. Registration is required.

Learn To Programs

• Learn to: Dance
• Learn to: Nutrition & Cooking
• Learn to: Weight Training

Click here for a complete list of Learn To Program offerings.

What to Expect:

• Smaller class sizes and personalized instruction
• Classes: run over a 10-week period, unless otherwise stated
• Workshops: run over 1-day or multiple days
• Fees for students range from $10 - $25 per course. Non-student members are eligible for some Learn To courses. Check the Learn To page for exact pricing and eligibility.
• Registration is required, unless otherwise stated
• Not drop-in style
• Equity-focused Learn To programs are available

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Customer Service Desk or email: recreation@torontomu.ca or groupfit@torontomu.ca

What is the MAC Fitness Centre?

The Fitness Centre at the Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC) offers open access to cardio machines, free weights, and weight machines. Whether you're completely new to fitness, or an advanced lifter, our space is designed to meet your fitness needs. 

The MAC Fitness Centre is available for use by TMU students and RAC / MAC Members.

Available Equipment:

• Cardio machines (treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, stairmaster)
• Strength and Conditioning Machines 
• Free weights and Squat racks
• Topline Studio: Stretching and mobility areas

Etiquette & Tips:

• Visit the facility occupancy page to check if the gym is currently busy
• QR codes are available on machines for video instructions
• No bags, personal belongings or glass bottles on the floor
• No Denim, boots (all types), sandals, crocs or open shoes
• Athletic wear and closed-toe shoes are required
• No loud music: Please enjoy your own music using headphones
• Re-rack (i.e. put away) your weights and wipe down equipment after use
• Chalk is allowed but must be cleaned up
• Extra gear and equipment can be borrowed from the front desk
• When in doubt, refer to the Community Standards of Respect and Inclusion

Location & Hours:

• The MAC is located at 50 Carlton Street; the Fitness Centre is on the 2nd floor
• Check the website for up-to-date fitness center hours

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Fitness Centre Desk or email: recreation@torontomu.ca

What is the RAC Fitness Centre?

The Fitness Centre at the Recreation & Athletic Centre (RAC) offers open access to free weights, weight machines, squat racks and other weightlifting equipment. Whether you're a beginner or advanced lifter, the space is designed to meet your needs.

Aside from the Fitness Centre, other weightlifting spaces in the RAC include the Cardio & Strength Circuit Room and Functional Training Room.

Women’s Only Hours:

Women’s only programs provide a safe, comfortable and fun atmosphere for anyone at TMU who identifies as a woman (Women includes all cis and trans individuals who identify as a woman). 

Up-to-date Women's only hours are posted on the Women's Only Programming page.

Beginner Support:

• Beginner on Weights and Women on Weights classes are available (see Learn To Programs)
• Desk staff are trained to help you adjust equipment or answer questions
• QR codes are available on machines for video instructions

Etiquette & Tips:

• Visit the facility occupancy page to check if the gym is currently busy
• No bags, personal belongings or glass bottles on the floor
• No Denim, boots (all types), sandals, crocs or open shoes
• Athletic wear and closed-toe shoes are required
• No loud music: Please enjoy your own music using headphones
• Re-rack (i.e. put away) your weights and wipe down equipment after use
• Chalk is allowed, but must be cleaned up
• Extra gear/equipment can be borrowed from the fitness centre desk
• When in doubt, refer to the Community Standards of Respect and Inclusion

Location & Hours:

• The RAC Fitness Centre is located at 50 Gould Street, under the Quad
• Check the most up-to-date fitness centre hours

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Fitness Centre Desk or email: recreation@torontomu.ca

What are Rec Clubs?

Recreational Clubs are student-led groups focused on learning, fun, and community building. These clubs offer weekly sessions in a supportive environment with others who are passionate or curious about the same activity. 

All Rec Clubs are open to TMU students and some are open to RAC/MAC members (including staff, faculty, and alumni) and non-members. For club-specific details please contact the club via email directly.

Registration is required. 

Available Clubs

• Archery (archery@torontomu.ca)
• Badminton (rec.badminton@torontomu.ca)
• Brazilian Jiu Jitsu (BJJ) (bjj@torontomu.ca)
• Kendo (kendo@torontomu.ca)
• Karate (karate@torontomu.ca)
• Climbing (climbing@torontomu.ca)
• Calisthenics (calisthenics@torontomu.ca)
• Trampoline (trampoline@torontomu.ca)
• Taekwondo (taekwondo@torontomu.ca)
• Tennis (tennisclub@torontomu.ca)
• Studio 1 Dance (studio2dance@torontomu.ca)
• Community Running Club (community.running@torontomu.ca)

What to Expect:

• Depending on the club you can expect to meet 1-2 times weekly 
• Sessions with the club may take place at the RAC, MAC, Kerr Hall and potentially off-site (ex: Rock Climbing Club) 
• Most equipment provided (some exceptions: climbing shoes, racquets, etc.) Please refer to the clubs page for equipment needs 
• Clubs may require a nominal fee to join (approx. $0-$120 per semester)

Questions?

Ask a staff member at the Customer Service Desk, email: recreation@torontomu.ca, or reach out to the Recreational Club Coordinator at recreationclubs@torontomu.ca.