Recreation on Campus (Fall 2020)



The University of Ottawa’s Health Promotion Team would like to extend a warm welcome back to the University of Ottawa students! With that being said, we are very happy to share that most of the recreation activities and programs are also returning for this upcoming school year. As a student, you have access to workout sessions, in-person activities, intramurals, virtual programs, as well as awesome Esports events! Now, Campus Rec staff fully understand that you might have some concerns due to the current state of our world; however, they can assure us that all of the recreation programs have been properly modified to keep you, and your peers, safe at all times. Keep reading below to find out more details on what exactly the recreation programs have to offer and, most importantly, how you can get active this school year!!

Return to sports facilities and training

Minto Sports Complex: Open & Ready for Gee-Gees

It’s been a hot minute since we’ve been able to go to the gym. But finally, the Minto sports complex is open and ready for you to get in those heavy sets that you’ve been missing. Let’s hit the gym hard! (And safely, might we add) 💯💪
Now, these new safety protocols can be tedious but there is some good news from this. There will be a limit of 20 people per workout session of an hour and 15 minutes. So there will be less squat bar hogging, sweet!
If we’ve piqued your interest to go back to the gym, we all know those weights deserve attention after their long hibernation, then read below. We’ll give you the 411.
  • Each hour and 15-minute training session is followed by 45 minutes of clean-up. Don’t worry, it’s not you cleaning up after for that long! But, throughout your workout, you’ll be expected to disinfect your equipment.
  • During these 45 minutes of clean-up, the workout area will not be open. Every new workout session will be sparkling clean thanks to the staff!
  • You, a uOttawa student, can register for one training session per day up to 7 days in advance. You’ll want to book ASAP because 20 spots get filled fast! Here is a link
  • Before having your bomb workout sesh, you’ll have to take a health assessment. For the protection of others and yourself. 
  • ALWAYS physical distance and wear a mask*. This stuff is like the ABC’s, you know this!
    • * Masks can be removed when you’re doing an exercise.
  • Wash equipment before and after use. Every time. Just do it.
On another note, the training room located in Montpetit will not be open for individual training visits… :( But, it will be available to those that are registered for personal or group training sessions.
  • Double-check this list before you head on over to pump some iron:
    • Bring a mask (Don’t want to risk all those gains by getting sick, follow the measures!)
    • Arrive already dressed
    • Bring your water bottle filled
    • Wear clean shoes
    • The locker rooms are currently closed! Make sure you bring all your belongings in a bag, which will be put away from the start until the end of your workout.

Get your Flippers, the Montpetit Pool is Open for Business! 🌊👙

The pool is open to students that have registered online. You’ll be able to swim to your heart's content for an hour per session. Plus, you’ll be able to use the locker rooms 15 minutes before and after the session (unlike Minto). No need to show up in your swim trunks! However, lockers will not be accessible, and you’ll have to leave your belongings in a specified area. Like everywhere else at uOttawa, wearing a mask is required besides in the pool, of course. Can you imagine? Ew, soggy mask.

If you’re still not too sure about what’s up in regards to the safety measures at the facilities at the university here’s a link to clear things up for you: Click me for more info!

**This link is essential if you’re planning on doing either one of these activities: Register by using me!

In-Person Activities

Hey Gee-Gees! Close to campus? Interested in getting active? Needing to exert some energy? Click here to see what kinds of in-person activities are offered this Fall 2020 semester! Be sure to check that link regularly to have the most up to date information. From intramurals, drop-in sports sessions, and general weight training, the recreation center is prepared to safely provide these activities for all uOttawa students. Be sure to check the COVID-19 guidelines to ensure safety on campus. See you soon Gee-Gees! 


  • DROP-IN ACTIVITIES: 
    • TBD
  • REGISTERED ACTIVITIES:
    • Dance:
      • Ballet
      • Contemporary
      • Dance
      • Hip Hop
      • Jazz
      • Lyrical
    • Personal Training & Fitness
    • Intramural Leagues
Given the current circumstances, both the University and Gee-Gees community are putting their best efforts forward to create the best healthy living experience on and off campus for all their students. With this being said, it is very important for all students to respect all the rules and regulations that are being implemented, for example wearing masks in the designated areas on campus, washing your hands, and follow all signs and directions provided by the university. So please be cautious, and of course, have fun! 

Not in Ottawa? No problem! Read more about virtual recreation at uOttawa by reading this blog post.

Links referred in this article: