Change is in motion for the YMCA/YWCA in Victoria, and we’ve got a sneak peek for you!
The organization is excited to start a new chapter with a facility in the heart of the downtown core on the fourth floor of the Bay Centre, in the old GoodLife Fitness location.
The previous location on Broughton Street closed its doors after nearly 60 years when its lease expired in 2025.
The new space is focused on embracing the company’s history and roots in Victoria. It aims to build on a tradition of fostering community in the city.
The newly-renovated 20,000 square foot club features stunning views of Victoria’s historic downtown and the Olympic mountains.
The new gym has state-of-the-art equipment, gender-inclusive washrooms and changing rooms as well as a play room for parents to drop off children while they work out—a service which is included free for members.
It’s clear that being inclusive and community-oriented is the focus in this new space.
“We’re into the heart of downtown. It’s accessible,” said Erin Kelley, a fitness coordinator with the organization.
“We can build wellness and meet people where they’re at. A part of it is revitalization. We’re bringing people back, and we’re bringing it in the form of community. It’s almost like a missing piece for the people here.”
At the heart of the space, Kelley said, is the Shirley Main Room. The area will have room for group fitness classes of around 50 people and pays homage to Shirley Main, a legendary figure in the music and movement world.
Main started as a volunteer with the YWCA in Victoria. She gained recognition for her work recording music with local musicians and for leading group fitness classes that revolved around that sound.
“The room is a symbol for how Victoria is a landmark. Shirley Main was an icon in the fitness industry. She really shaped how we do group fitness across North America. That legacy of giving back is carried on today, and we’re so proud to have her name on our wall,” said Kelley.
Main isn’t the only one being remembered in the re-imagined gym, though. Justus Shutty, a fitness team lead who came from the previous location, said the new designs really embrace wanted to the company’s history in the city.
“In the changing rooms we have the photo wall talking about the history of the YMCA on the Island and a lot of graphics in the gym itself, like the one talking about the Carr sisters,” Shutty said.
He added that there was a focus on trying to hold on to as much of the organization’s roots in Victoria as possible, going as far as incorporating the logo from the old building into the space.
The new facility will not include some of the amenities offered at the previous Y, such as a pool, gymnasium or racquet courts.; however, the YMCA/YWCA says the majority of its former programs will still be available.
The new Y will be open for business at 6 a.m. on Thursday, April 9th.
