With Pride month in full swing and summer weather finally warming up Toronto streets, there are plenty of fitness enthusiasts raising money for charities that uplift the queer community.
Participating in these events is a great way to squeeze in a workout, connect with other locals and donate to worthwhile causes.
Here are five fitness-themed fundraisers to explore this summer.
Pride Fitpop Fundraiser
Admission: $30
Address: Soul Fuel Fitness, 1605 Bloor St W
Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
Get ready to laugh, sweat and enjoy your favourite pop songs during this choreographed dance class. Melissa-Jane Shaw, founder of Soul Fuel Fitness, says participants can expect some high-energy and beginner-friendly moves.
The event will be led by Soul Fuel instructor Stiva Sinanan who, by taking part in The Friends For Life Bike Rally, is riding 600km to raise money for the Toronto People With AIDS Foundation (PWA.)
“For me, Pride is a celebration of our birth right as LGBTQIA2S+ people, that we are worthy and valued,” said Sinanan.
In support of Sinanan’s fundraising for PWA, Soul Fuel Fitness is donating 100 per cent of ticket sales from the event and matching all funds.
The class will begin at 6:30 p.m. Come dressed in colourful, retro workout gear for a feel-good night.
Tickets are available here.
Totum Pride Month Fundraiser Class
Admission: Minimum donation of $25
Address: Totum Life Science, 445 King St W
Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025
This gym and sports medicine clinic is hosting a total-body workout class for folks who want to build muscle, increase endurance and celebrate Pride.
Tim Irvine, co-founder of Totum Life Science, says that 100 per cent of proceeds will be donated to Friends of Ruby, a local organization dedicated to supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ youth through social services, housing and mental health counselling.
“Pride means creating a supportive, inclusive community where everyone feels safe to be their authentic self,” Irvine said. “Far too many 2SLGBTQIA+ youth don’t receive the support they need from friends or family — making organizations like Friends of Ruby essential to their well-being and sense of belonging.
Personal trainer Steve Parkhill will lead the hour-long class, which begins at 12:00 p.m.
Get your tickets here.
Pride Ride with the Neon Riders
Admission: Free! Donations encouraged.
Address: Nathan Phillips Square
Date: Thursday, June 26, 2025
Neon Riders is a crew of urban cyclists transforming Toronto streets with LED-lit bikes and bumping soundtracks. Their 20km Pride Ride will pass through Queen’s Park, College Park and Church Street.
Kfir Lavi, a spokesperson for the group, says that choosing to show up sends a powerful message.
“By dedicating this ride to Pride, we’re creating visible, joyful space for the 2SLGBTQ+ community; and reminding the city that love, unity and celebration are for everyone,” Lavi said.
There is no charge to participate. Instead, event organizers encourage donations to Pride Toronto in light of the organization’s recent funding challenges. Simply come dressed in your brightest and boldest gear at 7 p.m.
“You’ll discover hidden gems across Toronto, make new friends and maybe even relive that childhood thrill of biking with your crew after school,” Lavi said. “But this time, no curfew — just lights, music, and a whole lot of Pride.”
Registration is not required. Learn more here.
The Pride & Remembrance Run
Admission: $65 for in-person run; free post-run celebration
Address: Church & Wellesley streets
Date: Saturday, June 28, 2025
Since 1996, Canada’s largest Pride run has raised over $3.3 million for projects supporting the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
The organization’s website says that, this year, 100 per cent of charitable pledges will be donated to Sherbourne Health Centre, Sunshine Centres for Seniors, Women’s College Hospital Foundation and the Pride and Remembrance Foundation.
The three- and five-kilometre runs will start at the corner of Church & Wellesley streets. A spokesperson for the Pride & Remembrance Run says that this location has long served as a hub for activism and resilience.
“Events like the 1981 Bathhouse Raids sparked protests that helped shape 2SLGBTQ+ rights in Canada,” she said.
The vibrant heart of Toronto’s queer community is also home to the city’s AIDS Memorial, which honours those lost to the epidemic — including friends of Pride & Remembrance Run founder Alain Belaiche.
Registration for runners is closed, but don’t worry if you missed the cutoff. All are welcome to attend the free, post-run celebration at the 519 Community Centre’s Barbara Hall Park. Arrive at 9:45 a.m. to support the run’s beneficiaries while enjoying Zumba, drag performances and sponsor giveaways.
Learn more here.
Summer Rooftop Movement with Jaybird
Admission: $40 + Tax with 50% of proceeds going to The Kendall Gender Foundation
Address: East Room, 507 King Street E
Date: Sunday, July 20, 2025 and Friday, August 8, 2025
Jaybird, the Canadian yoga and pilates studio infamous for its cult following, is partnering with East Room for two rooftop mat classes in Summer 2025. Come ready to stretch, balance and feel the burn.
A portion of ticket sales will go to the Kendall Gender Foundation, an organization working to reduce financial barriers for folks seeking treatment at drug and alcohol rehabilitation centres. The not-for-profit’s website notes that members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community are disproportionately impacted by substance use in comparison to the general population.
“At Jaybird, Pride is a celebration of authenticity, resilience and community,” Jaybird Co-founder Ariel Swan said. “It’s also a reminder of our responsibility to create spaces where everyone — especially 2SLGBTQ+ folks — feels seen, safe, and supported.”
Tickets and pricing will be available here in July and August.
