As part of its Return to Service framework, McMaster’s department of Athletics & Recreation is making changes to operating procedures and easing restrictions in its facilities in response to the Government of Ontario’s Plan to Safely Reopen Ontario, effective Monday, November 8, 2021.

Updates to service

The following service updates will be in effect as of Monday, November 8:

• Walk-up access to The Pulse and other services will now be permitted. Facility users will no longer be required to book workouts in advance (exceptions apply for instructional programming, classes. Please visit rec.mcmaster.ca for more information). All offerings will be on a first come, first use basis.
• Capacity will be increased in The Pulse Fitness Centre spaces to accommodate more members. The temporary operating spaces will remain in use during renovations to The Pulse, with completion scheduled for the fall of 2022.
• Capacity is also being increased for the following programs:
  • Pool
  • Studio instructional classes
  • Group fitness classes
  • Cycling classes
• Showers in the David Braley Athletic Centre locker rooms will be reopened for member use.
  • Towel service is not available.
  • Locker access in the change rooms is available.
• The following drop-in recreation programs will return. Schedules are subject to change. https://macreconline.ca/
  • Badminton
  • Basketball
  • Dance
  • Field Sports (Outdoor – football, soccer, rugby, ultimate frisbee)
  • Group fitness (requires sign-up)
  • Indoor soccer
  • Mindfulness & Meditation
  • Outdoor fitness circuit
  • Recreational swimming
  • Squash/Racquetball (requires sign-up)
  • Table tennis (requires sign-up)
  • Track (outdoor)
  • Volleyball
• Community member access to McMaster Athletics & Recreation services has returned. Please visit https://rec.mcmaster.ca/memberships for more information.

The following health and safety protocols remain in place:

• If you feel unwell, have symptoms consistent with COVID-19, or have been identified as a close contact of a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19, stay home and seek further guidance from Public Health officials.
• Remaining physically distanced from others when possible is encouraged.
• All members are required to be fully vaccinated and must show MacCheck, proof of vaccination and valid photo ID upon entry.
  • Exception only for those with ALL three of the following:
    • Approved exemption from McMaster University
    • Signed note from physician
    • Negative COVID-19 test
• Members must swipe in using their student ID or membership card.
• Masks that securely cover the nose and mouth are required to be worn at all times in A&R facilities, unless actively participating in physical activity. Masks must be worn while moving around (i.e., moving from treadmill to free weights) or while waiting to enter an activity space (i.e., waiting for squash court). Wearing masks while participating in activity is encouraged but optional.
• Sanitize equipment you’ve used using the towels and sanitizer provided.

Have questions? Email the Athletics and Recreation department at reconline@mcmaster.ca