Drop-In Aquafit Classes in Ottawa — 14 Pools with Water Fitness
Ottawa has 14 recreation centres with drop-in aquafit classes. Deep water, shallow water, and therapeutic pool options available. No registration needed for most sessions.
Aquafit is water-based fitness — a full workout with less impact on joints. The City of Ottawa runs drop-in aquafit at 14 indoor pools. Classes run most days of the week, morning and evening.
See today's drop-in aquafit schedule →
Types of Aquafit
Ottawa recreation centres offer different aquafit formats depending on pool depth and intensity:
Aquafit General — Deep
Full-body workout in deep water where your feet don't touch the bottom. Uses flotation belts. Higher intensity than shallow water.
Aquafit General — Shallow
Workout in waist-to-chest-deep water. Feet stay on the pool floor. Good for beginners and those who prefer more stability.
Aquafit Lite
Lower-intensity aquafit, often held in therapeutic pools (warmer water). Suitable for older adults, people recovering from injury, or anyone who wants a gentler workout.
Aquafit Zumba
Dance-based aquafit class combining Zumba movements with water resistance. Available at select locations.
Therapeutic Pool Sessions
Some centres offer aquafit in therapeutic pools — warmer water (around 34°C) that's easier on joints and muscles.
Where to Go
| Centre | Area | Pool Types |
|---|---|---|
| Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex | Orléans | Deep, shallow |
| Richcraft Recreation Complex | Kanata | Deep, shallow |
| Nepean Sportsplex | Nepean | Deep, shallow |
| Walter Baker Sports Centre | Kanata | Deep, shallow |
| Plant Recreation Centre | Hintonburg | Deep, shallow, therapeutic |
| Splash Wave Pool | East End | Deep, shallow |
| Kanata Leisure Centre and Wave Pool | Kanata | Deep, shallow |
| Minto Recreation Complex | Barrhaven | Deep, shallow |
| François Dupuis Recreation Centre | Orléans | Deep, shallow |
| St. Laurent Complex | East End | Deep, shallow |
Also available at: Brewer Pool and Arena, CARDELREC Recreation Complex, Ray Friel Recreation Complex, Sawmill Creek Community Centre and Pool.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Water bottle
- Lock for locker
- No special equipment needed — flotation belts are provided for deep water sessions
Pricing
Aquafit is a drop-in activity requiring a fee or City of Ottawa RecPass. Check ottawa.ca for current pricing.
FAQ
Where can I do drop-in aquafit in Ottawa?
The City of Ottawa offers drop-in aquafit at 14 indoor pools including Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex, Richcraft Recreation Complex, Nepean Sportsplex, Walter Baker Sports Centre, Plant Recreation Centre, and Splash Wave Pool.
What is the difference between deep and shallow aquafit?
Deep water aquafit is done in water where your feet don't touch the bottom, using flotation belts for a higher-intensity workout. Shallow water aquafit is done in waist-to-chest-deep water with feet on the floor, offering more stability and suitable for beginners.
Is aquafit good for seniors?
Yes. Ottawa recreation centres offer Aquafit Lite classes in therapeutic pools with warmer water, designed for older adults and those with joint concerns. Many centres also have regular aquafit classes designated 50+.
Do I need to register for aquafit in Ottawa?
Most aquafit sessions are walk-in with no registration required. Some sessions may require advance reservation through the City of Ottawa FrontDesk system. Check the live schedule for availability.
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