Special holiday hours at the YMCA
Your YMCA will remain open during part of the holiday season, but its hours and group fitness classes may have changed. Check ahead to plan your fitness sessions in advance!
Find a locationStaying active during the holidays: our best tips
December 17, 2025
Looking to keep up your workout routine during the holiday season? Our private training team and group fitness class team have put together simple workouts, equipment-free exercises and ideas to help you stay active, even when travelling or away from the gym!
How can you adapt your workout when gyms aren’t accessible or when you’re travelling?
During the holidays or while travelling, your usual equipment may not be within reach. Our trainers recommend keeping it simple!
For workouts at home:
- Do bodyweight exercises (lunges, planks, push-ups, etc.)
- Use elastics or resistance bands if you have them
- Use everyday items such as water bottles or canned goods to replace gym weights
For workouts while travelling:
- Take advantage of the hotel pool or fitness room
- Take part in a yoga, dance or fitness class offered by the hotel
- Go for a walk on the beach
Can taking a break from physical activity during the holidays affect your progress?
This is a common concern and the most frequently asked question as the holidays approach.
Don’t worry—pausing for a week or two won’t undo all the progress you’ve made! Your body will quickly get back on track once you start exercising again.
What quick workouts are recommended for hectic days?
On hectic days, the key is to set aside a few minutes for a quick workout. Performing a simple movement every day keeps your body active with ease.
For example, you can do one or more functional exercises and a cardio activity each day, depending on your level:
- 5 to 10 push-ups
- 15 to 30 seconds of planks
- 5 to 10 lunges
- 30 minutes of walking
What everyday activities can replace a workout during the holidays?
The holiday season is perfect for staying active! Dance, play outside with family, build a snowman…
The winter scenery and festive decorations in your neighbourhood are also a great incentive to get walking. Before you know it, you’ll have walked thousands of steps and boosted both your physical and mental well-being.
Winter activities at the Y
The Cartierville YMCA team is proud to team up with the borough to manage the Parc De Mésy Bleu Blanc Bouge refrigerated outdoor skating rink, an initiative of the Montreal Canadiens Children’s Foundation.
Learn more
Can a YMCA private trainer help me adjust my workout routine for the holiday season?
Of course! Our personal training team can help you adjust your workout plan so you can continue to be physically active during the holidays. Whether you’re a member or not, our team is here to help you maintain balance while enjoying this magical time of year.
Book an appointment
Happy Holidays!
By adjusting your regular workout routine, using what’s around you or your own body weight, and knowing that taking a break won’t affect your progress, you can start the holiday season with the confidence that staying active and celebrating can go hand in hand.
On behalf of the entire YMCAs of Québec team, Happy Holidays!
