WATERLOO, Ont. - As a student, it can be difficult to juggle the pressures of school, work, and personal life, while being active. Oftentimes, we feel like there are barriers preventing us from finding opportunities to incorporate fitness into our daily routines or we simply don't know where to start.

At Laurier Recreation, we believe it is paramount that each of our Golden Hawks finds a way to move their bodies and minds each day to contribute to their overall wellbeing; this is why we created the I Move My Mood (IMMM) program. IMMM aims to support all students in developing a love for movement, in whatever way they choose. This peer-to-peer program provides an opportunity for students to improve their mental health and wellbeing through exercise and recreational activity while making new friends and personal routines along the way.

"The ultimate benefit to participating in this program is an overall improvement of your wellbeing. It is scientifically proven that physical exercise has a major impact on every element of your life including your bodily, mental, and emotional health" says IMMM supervisor, Olivia Ellerby.  

So… how does it work?

Participants are paired with an I Move My Mood volunteer, with whom they attend regularly scheduled sessions in any area of the Athletic Complex, such as the Fitness Centre, Climbing Wall, Group Exercise Classes, Lane Swim, and more. Through this, students will gain confidence through regimented physical activity, feel a supportive source of accountability, and build a sense of community.  

"The IMMM volunteers are compassionate fitness and mental health advocates. They may have experience working in the Athletic Complex itself, the Fit Centre, or maybe they've taken a Group Exercise class before… Each volunteer has some sort of background and passion for physical activity and understands the benefits tied to mental health," says Ellerby.   

How do I sign up?     

I Move My Mood is free of charge and open to all students. Please sign up by filling out the inquiry form. All information is kept confidential.

Once you fill out the inquiry form, you will receive an email within 24-48 hours from an I Move My Mood Supervisor to set up an initial meeting over Zoom. You will be paired with a student volunteer to meet throughout the semester. Every week, you and your partner will meet to exercise in any way you would like. That could mean going to the Fitness Centre, attending a Group Exercise class, joining an intramural team, or even going on a walk together. You decide what is best for you! 

Further questions? 
Please reach out to the IMMM Supervisors: Ziv Newman (znewman@wlu.ca) or Olivia Ellerby (oellerby@wlu.ca) with any questions you may have about the program.