At the Downtown Athletic Club, we want every family to feel confident walking through our doors, whether it’s a 6-year-old tagging along with Mom for a Saturday morning, a 16-year-old hitting the fitness floor solo, or a 20-year-old who grew up here and isn’t ready to leave. This post covers everything you need to know about how youth memberships work, what to expect at check-in, and how we keep the Club a great place for members of every age.
Youth Membership Rates
Ages 0–13: No additional cost. Children 13 and younger can be added to any parent or guardian’s membership at no extra charge. We believe that giving kids early, easy access to a health club builds habits that stick.
Ages 14–23: $25/month add-on. Teens and young adults can stay on a parent or guardian’s membership for just $25 per month. One of the most family-friendly options we know of for keeping everyone training together in Eugene.
Age 24: Time for their own membership. At 24, individuals are automatically transitioned off their parent or guardian’s account and will need to set up a membership of their own. Our membership team is happy to walk them through options when the time comes.
Youth Waiver: What It Is and When You Need It
Starting June 2026, a Youth Waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian is required at the time of signup for any child added to a membership. If you’re adding a youth member, this is step one.
Who needs a waiver?
- All youth ages 17 and younger, member and non-member
How do you complete it? Waivers can be completed in person at the Welcome Desk or electronically, whichever is easier for your family.
If you’re not sure whether a waiver is on file for your child, our front desk team can look it up in seconds.
Facility Access: Who Can Go Where
General Club Access
Ages 14 and older may use the Club without adult supervision.
Ages 13 and younger must be supervised by a responsible adult (age 18 or older) at all times while inside the Club. This applies throughout the building, not just on the fitness floor.
Fitness Floor + Group Exercise
Age 13
Before accessing the 2nd-floor fitness areas or Group Exercise classes, 13-year-olds must complete our Junior Orientation (a short, hands-on session with a Certified Personal Trainer that walks younger members through equipment use and Club expectations). After completing orientation, they can access approved fitness areas, still with adult supervision. All child add-ons, ages 13 and older, are encouraged to take the Junior Orientation. To schedule, email Tao at tgalindo@downtownac.com.
Ages 14–17
Junior Orientation is strongly recommended for this age group. It’s a great way to build confidence on the floor, learn gym etiquette, and learn how to properly utilize equipment. Teens 14 and older can use the fitness floor and attend Group Exercise classes on their own.
Locker Rooms
Ages 16 and older may use their respective adult locker room independently.
Family locker room access is available on Sundays. Families may use the adult locker rooms together with adult supervision: kids must stay within arm’s reach of their parent or guardian and be well-behaved.
- Men’s Locker Room: Families are welcome throughout.
- Women’s Locker Room: Families may use the lower-level only. The upper Women’s Locker Room is not accessible to families.
Guest Policies for Youth
Bringing a friend or cousin along? Here’s what to know before you arrive.
Adult Guests (Ages 18 and Older)
Adult guests may visit the Club independently under our standard Rules and Policies.
Youth Guests (Ages 17 and Younger)
Youth guests must be accompanied by a responsible adult (age 18 or older) for the entire visit. That adult can be either a member or another guest.
A completed Youth Waiver (signed by the guest’s legal guardian) is required before access is granted. It can be completed in person or electronically before their visit.
Members Bringing Youth Guests
Members in good standing may bring guests of any age. A few things to keep in mind:
- If the guest is 17 or younger, they must be accompanied by an adult (age 18 or older) regardless of who brought them.
- Members ages 14–17 do not need supervision themselves, but they cannot serve as the supervising adult for a minor guest. If you’re 16 and want to bring a 15-year-old friend, an adult (age 18 or older) still needs to be present for the guest.
This policy keeps the Club a safe and well-supervised space for everyone, and it’s something our team is always happy to clarify when you arrive.
Questions? We’re Here.
If you’re not sure whether your child needs an orientation, whether a waiver is on file, or which locker room arrangement works best for your family on a given day: just ask. We’d rather answer the question at the front door than have you guessing.
For more than 40 years, the DAC has been a place where members of all ages come to move, connect, and thrive. These policies help preserve a safe, welcoming experience for everyone who uses the Club.
The information shared on the Downtown Athletic Club’s blog is intended for educational and inspirational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.
The Downtown Athletic Club (DAC) has been Eugene’s locally owned, family-operated health club for over 40 years. Under one roof you’ll find a full Gymnasium, Cardio + Strength Floor, Group Exercise classes, a Lap Pool, warm-water therapy pool, Downtown Pilates Studio, The ZONE training program, Newberry Preschool, KidStop Daycare, and Zest Kitchen + Bar on our third floor. Locally owned means we get to build a club around the community we’ve built, and continue to build.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Enjoy a complimentary guest pass and come see why so many Eugene families call the DAC home. We’re located at 999 Willamette St, Eugene, OR 97401. Give us a call at 541-484-4011 anytime.
