Cross-Training: When Yoga Meets Climbing

Since Centre Multisports opened in 2012, cross-training has shaped the way instructors and health professionals approach fitness—bringing a fresh, well-rounded method to a community more mindful than ever of its health.

What Is Cross-Training?

Born in the 1980s, cross-training is defined as a multi-disciplinary training method that improves overall athletic performance by combining various types of exercises.

Thanks to its diverse facilities and wide range of group classes, Centre Multisports offers the ideal environment for this training approach—whether you’re a high-level athlete or just starting out.

The Power of a Holistic Approach

Davidsen Jugnah, Programming Director at the Centre, sees cross-training as a refreshing way to engage both members and professionals:

“Like food—eating the same thing every day isn’t healthy or fun. Cross-training breaks the routine.”

David Forget, kinesiologist and Conditioning & Clinic Coordinator, agrees:

“Most people stick to what they know. Our goal is to break down those walls and get them to try climbing, cycling—everything the Centre has to offer. That’s what makes us different.”

Why Cross-Training Works

Studies confirm it: diverse training leads to better overall fitness.
Forget explains:

“Training stimulates biomechanical, motor, and physiological adaptations. The more variety we introduce, the more we improve.”

Jugnah adds that while kids are encouraged to try different activities, adults tend to specialize too quickly—missing out on the confidence, joy, and growth that come from variety.

And the benefits go beyond fitness: cross-training fosters community connections, starting with the family.

“Everyone in the family can find something to do at the same time,” says Nadia Vani, Group Fitness Coordinator.
“Whether you’re a beginner, advanced, young, old, injured, or fit—there’s something for everyone.”

A Fitness Buffet for All

Centre Multisports has built a diverse and accessible training environment. Like a buffet, the Centre offers something for every appetite. But unlike wandering lost with an empty plate, new members are guided and supported by qualified professionals—like kinesiologists—who help tailor the journey:

“It’s not about selling memberships. It’s about helping people evolve in a practice that brings them joy,” says Jugnah.

“In other gyms, a salesperson greets you first. Here, it’s a health professional,” adds Forget.
The goal? Improve strength, mobility, and flexibility, and even explore cross-benefits across sports.

Practical Cross-Training: Real-World Gains

Whether it’s:

• Yoga
• Zumba
• Climbing
• Strength training in the Gym Perfo
• Indoor cycling in the ZVP
• Track running
• Mini-volleyball for kids

...the Centre offers far more than reps and machines.

“First, we make physical activity accessible. Then, we show members how to make it part of their lives,” says Jugnah.

Beyond muscle gains or weight loss, cross-training boosts:

• Balance
• Functional intelligence
• Joy and long-term commitment

Looking Toward Horizon 2035

Part of the Horizon 2035 vision—a movement aiming to make physical activity second nature in one generation—cross-training is a cornerstone for long-term wellness.

“We’re starting to see people diversify their training,” says Mélissa Boisjoli, Multisport Projects Coordinator.
“We’re slowly shifting from obligation to habit. But it takes time and education.”

“Centre Multisports is multifunctional and open to everyone in the region. We have the tools people need to stay motivated and progress.”

So the next time you face a mountain of fitness doubt, remember: at the foot of that mountain, Centre Multisports opens its doors wide—illuminated by a world of possibilities.

Because yes, yoga and climbing can go hand in hand.