Movement, through physical activity, play or sport, is essential to the health of individuals – and that includes mental health. While mental health can be complex and require multiple approaches for wellness, the role of physical activity in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression is well-documented, with contributions from researchers across U of T, including the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education (KPE).
Every day, KPE researchers and practitioners generate and share new knowledge about the interactions between movement and health, with the goal of improving the holistic health and well-being of Canadians. Our research shows that just 10 minutes of exercise can decrease stress and improve mood, among other benefits.
Here are some resources for you to share to encourage inclusive movement and a wellness break within your community.
Understanding the connection between movement and mental wellness
Did you know that just 10 minutes of physical activity can help your mental health? This infographic from KPE’s Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre (MPARC) provides a handy list of some of the benefits of movement as they relate to mental wellness.
Take a movement break in your next lecture or meeting
Born out of a collaboration between KPE’s Dr. Catherine Sabiston, Director of the Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre, and Dr. Ananya Banerjee and Dr. Jackie Bender from the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, these three minute movement break videos make it easy to integrate movement into the academic learning environment.
Their research shows that short bouts of movement during lectures can mitigate the negative effects of prolonged sitting in the classroom and improve student engagement.
Explore the Movement Break Video Library
Get personalized exercise training and behaviour change coaching
Need help creating or strengthening your movement habits? Students at U of T can get 6 weeks of personalized support through the MoveU.HappyU program.
MPARC is also piloting a version of the program for U of T staff and faculty! Get support from Master of Professional Kinesiology students in creating or sticking to your health behaviour goals. Interested staff and faculty can send an email to mparc@utoronto.ca with the subject line “MPK program” by February 4, 2023.
Join a group workout with Sport & Rec
Our Sport & Rec team offers a wide selection of group workouts that cater to all skill levels from beginner to advanced. We also offer drop-in sports, lane swimming and open gym at four different training spaces.
All U of T students who have paid KPE athletic incidental fees for the term are automatically members of our Sport & Rec facilities. Discounted memberships are available for U of T staff, faculty, post-docs and alumni.
Explore all the recreational activities available
Virtual Workouts on Demand
The Sport & Rec virtual workout library makes it easy to fit an active lifestyle into your busy schedule. Try a variety of workouts, from high intensity interval training (HIIT) to yoga. Access is available to anyone with a @mail.utoronto.ca or @utoronto.ca email address.