There might be 11 municipalities between Sooke and Sidney, but there are now no boundaries when it comes to local fitness opportunities.

After a successful trial period, Capital Regional District municipalities have decided to continue with a region-wide recreation pass.

"I think we all benefit from it," said Saanich Mayor Frank Leonard.

Beginning Jan. 2, Greater Victoria residents will have the opportunity to buy a single recreation pass good for drop-in services at all rec centres in the region.

Leonard said giving residents the opportunity to use recreation facilities outside of their own municipalities keeps the rec centres on their toes.

"Although it may seem you're spending the taxpayers' dollar to chase the same consumer, I think it keeps everybody sharp and keeps the product up to date because people have choice," Leonard said

"Having a regional pass simply reinforces that people look around the region for recreation opportunities, and many times don't see a municipal border or municipal logo -- they simply see good service.

"I think we all win -- taxpayers and the municipalities themselves."

Victoria Mayor Dean Fortin says it's a recognition that local municipalities do work as a region.

He said the regional pass makes sense.

"You might actually live in Victoria but be closer to Oak Bay than to the Crystal pooI," Fortin said.

"It's a great program."

Depending on the facility, drop-in services can include swimming, skating, weight rooms and cardio equipment as well as some aquafit programming.

The new regional pass will sell for $420.10. That compares to the average cost for a single rec centre of $350.

Residents can either pay in full or in monthly instalments. The passes will be available throughout the year and will be good for a year from the date of purchase.

Residents can also upgrade their regular pass to a regional pass by paying the difference in cost.

The municipal departments participating in the new pass project are: Victoria Parks and Recreation, Saanich Parks and Recreation, Recreation Oak Bay, Esquimalt Parks and Recreation, West Shore Parks and Recreation, Panorama Recreation (Saanich Peninsula) and SEAPARC Leisure complex in Sooke.