Effective Date: December 15, 2024
Last Updated: December 15, 2024
Welcome to Ottawa Fitnest
These Terms of Service govern your participation in Ottawa Fitnest programs and use of our services. By joining our community, you agree to these terms and help us maintain a welcoming environment for all newcomers to Canada.
1. Our Mission and Community Values
Ottawa Fitnest is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping newcomers to Canada build fitness, community connections, and a sense of belonging through inclusive wellness programs.
Our Values
- • Inclusion and cultural sensitivity
- • Beginner-friendly approach
- • Community building and support
- • Safe and judgment-free environment
Your Role
- • Respect all community members
- • Follow safety guidelines
- • Participate with positive attitude
- • Support others on their journey
2. Program Participation
Eligibility
Our programs are primarily designed for:
- Newcomers to Canada (within 5 years of arrival)
- Individuals of all fitness levels and backgrounds
- Community members who support our mission of inclusion
- Participants must be 16 years or older (parental consent required for minors)
Health and Safety Requirements
Important Health Disclaimer
Physical activity involves inherent risks. By participating in our programs, you acknowledge that:
- • You participate at your own risk
- • You should consult a healthcare provider before starting any fitness program
- • You are responsible for knowing your physical limitations
- • You will inform instructors of any health conditions or injuries
- • You will stop exercising if you feel unwell or experience pain
3. Community Standards and Conduct
Expected Behavior
We Encourage
- • Respectful communication in all languages
- • Supporting fellow participants
- • Celebrating everyone's progress
- • Sharing cultural experiences
- • Asking questions and seeking help
- • Arriving on time for classes
- • Following instructor guidance
- • Maintaining personal hygiene
- • Bringing positive energy
- • Building lasting friendships
Prohibited Conduct
Zero Tolerance for
- • Discrimination based on race, religion, gender, or background
- • Harassment, bullying, or intimidation
- • Inappropriate physical contact
- • Use of offensive language or slurs
- • Disrupting classes or events
- • Promoting divisive political views
- • Commercial solicitation without permission
- • Substance abuse during programs
- • Unsafe exercise practices
- • Violation of others' privacy
4. Registration and Payments
Program Costs
Free Programs
- • All core fitness classes
- • Virtual training sessions
- • Community events
- • Available to newcomers within 5 years
Sliding Scale Options
- • Specialized workshops
- • Equipment rental
- • Premium virtual classes
- • Based on financial situation
Cancellation Policy
We understand that life circumstances change. You may cancel your participation at any time by contacting us. For paid programs, refunds are available according to our refund policy outlined during registration.
5. Privacy and Personal Information
Your privacy is important to us. Our data practices are detailed in our Privacy Policy. Key points include:
- We collect minimal personal information necessary for program participation
- Your information is never sold or shared for commercial purposes
- Health information is kept confidential and secure
- Photos/videos are only taken and used with explicit consent
- You can request to see, correct, or delete your personal information
6. Photography and Media
Media Consent
We may photograph or record classes and events for promotional purposes. Participation in these activities constitutes consent unless you specifically opt out by:
- • Informing your instructor before class begins
- • Emailing us at media@ottawafitnest.ca
- • Wearing our "No Photos" identifier during events
7. Liability and Risk Assumption
Assumption of Risk
By participating in Ottawa Fitnest programs, you acknowledge and assume the risks associated with physical activity, including but not limited to:
- • Risk of injury from exercise activities
- • Weather-related risks for outdoor activities
- • Equipment-related risks
- • Risks associated with group activities
Ottawa Fitnest, its staff, volunteers, and partners are not liable for injuries or damages that may occur during program participation.
8. Intellectual Property
All content provided during our programs, including workout routines, educational materials, and resources, are the intellectual property of Ottawa Fitnest or used with permission. You may not reproduce, distribute, or commercialize this content without written permission.
9. Enforcement and Consequences
First Warning
Verbal discussion and guidance
Temporary Suspension
Suspension from programs
Permanent Removal
Banned from all programs
We reserve the right to immediately remove anyone who poses a safety risk or creates a hostile environment. Our priority is maintaining a safe, inclusive space for all community members.
10. Technology and Virtual Programs
Virtual Class Requirements
- Stable internet connection required for participation
- Camera use encouraged but not mandatory
- Ensure adequate space for safe movement
- Mute microphone when not speaking to reduce background noise
- Recording of virtual classes by participants is prohibited
11. Changes to Terms
We may update these Terms of Service to reflect changes in our programs, legal requirements, or community needs. When we make changes:
- We will post the updated terms on our website
- We will notify active participants via email
- Changes take effect 30 days after notification
- Continued participation constitutes acceptance of new terms
12. Governing Law
These Terms of Service are governed by the laws of Ontario, Canada. Any disputes will be resolved in Ottawa, Ontario courts. We encourage resolving conflicts through direct communication with our team before pursuing legal action.
Questions or Concerns?
If you have questions about these terms or need clarification about our community standards, please contact us:
Legal or Compliance Issues
Strathcona Park, Ottawa ON
Thank you for being part of the Ottawa Fitnest community! Together, we're building a more inclusive and connected Ottawa through fitness and friendship.