Attending therapeutic programs

Land therapeutic programs are include weight bearing activities to increase muscle strength, and seated to standing options that offer appropriate exercise modifications.

Water therapeutic programs are run in warm water, which helps relax muscles, increase circulation and space in joints. These exercise programs are ideal for continuing your personal rehabilitation plan, improving range of motion, reducing pain and gradually strengthening the body.

What to bring and what to wear

To participate in a water program you’ll need to bring:

  • Appropriate bathing attire, for example a bathing suit, leggings, t-shirt, shorts, or burqa
  • Towel
  • Water bottle
  • Water shoes for aqua cycle
  • Non-slip water shoes to walk on the pool deck

Swimming and lifeguards

A qualified lifeguard supervises all therapeutic water programs along with the program instructor.

You don’t need to be able to swim to participate, but you do need to be comfortable standing in chest-deep water.

Entering the pool safely

There are a variety of options to help you enter the pool safely. You must be able to do a self-transfer or bring a support person with you.

  • Shallow steps
  • Ramps
  • Water wheelchairs
  • Hydraulic lifts (lifeguards are trained to assist with these)

Bringing a therapist or support person

A support person can attend recreation programs for free if an individual requires assistance to safely participate. They could be a family member, friend or personal support worker.

A support person must be at least 14 years old to access the pool and 18 years old to access the fitness centres. Support persons must stay within arms reach of the participant at all times and should not be performing their own workout/exercises.

Therapists can work with you at our community centres by completing a Verified Health Care Provider Application.

A support person can attend programs for free. Staff may ask to verify support persons upon check-in. Verified health care providers must pay the admission fee.

Assistive and medical devices

You can bring assistive and medical devices to the community centre including:

  • Canes, walkers and wheelchairs
  • Oxygen tanks
  • Colostomy bags

Insurance coverage

Coverage varies depending on your insurance, you should check with your provider to find out if they will cover our therapeutic programs. If you need supporting documentation to submit your insurance claim, contact your local community centre.