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Ryerson Moves: Active Well-Being During COVID-19

Tips and resources to keep you moving, feeling and studying your best
March 19, 2020

Update - Sep-11-2020: The information in this announcement is no longer current. Please refer to our MOVE Everywhere hub for the latest information and program schedules.

Now more than ever...

Now, more than ever, we need the physical and mental health benefits of moving our bodies. And as long as you're moving, it doesn't matter how. Put your body in motion, feel your heart beat faster, and you can't help but be healthier and feel better.

Improved immune function and elevated mood are just some of the benefits of regular physical activity. Add improved sleep and digestion, increased energy and self-confidence, and moving your body can be a powerful coping strategy during this difficult time.

And, of course, for all of us studying and working, getting active is a clear path to a clear mind - whether a 5 minute walk, a set of push-ups and squats or a 30 minute dance cardio class, moving your body improves cognition, focus and stamina.

Participants perform Downward Dog move in a yoga class at one of the RAC studios.

Getting active, safely

So... how do you move in the context of social isolation and distancing? First and foremost, continue to look to your regional Public Health office (external link)  for updates. But then... MOVE!

And if you're looking for inspiration, below are some great Ryerson-led options as well as others from around the world we've gathered for you. All are free!

Important! When working out at home, remember:

  • Everyone has different abilities and spaces - be sure to adapt exercises to your body and space, take breaks when you need them, and factor in any injuries or pre-existing conditions you may have
  • There are inherent risks involved in any type of physical activity, including the possibility of personal injury and death; risks include but are not limited to: overexertion, mis-use of equipment, collision with objects, trips, slips or falls

Community Connections

RU Student Life wants to hear and share your story during this strange time. How are you staying active and connected with others while away from Ryerson? Reflect and share at (Dis)Connection Stories.

Moving your body in nature brings even more health and well-being benefits. A common question right now: Is it safe to exercise outside? Again, you'll need to keep up with your local Public Health office (external link)  for the latest, but Runner's World Magazine shared a great summary of the considerations (external link)  - and, in short, yes, absolutely! 

Walk, run, roll, hike or bike: Find a trail near you! Search "<wherever you live> +trails" for some great options you might not normally look to, or just hit the pavement around your neighbourhood. Here's a kickstart for those of you in and around the GTA:

Important: Trail Closures

Some regional trails and green spaces have been closed. Be sure to check online before you head out and respect all closure information and signage.

A selection of group strength and cardio classes will be offered online until the RAC and MAC re-open.

Class & Instructor Day Time
bodyART with Ildiko on Ildiko's Channel (external link)  Mondays 6:00pm-6:45pm
Pilates with Sharon on @RURecreation (external link)  Mondays 5:00pm-5:50pm
Vinyasa Yoga with Sarah on @RURecreation (external link)  Tuesdays 9:00am-10:00am
Hatha Yoga with Katie on @RURecreation (external link)  Tuesdays 12:10pm-1:00pm
Groove with Ildiko on Ildiko's Channel (external link)  Tuesdays 6:00pm-6:45pm
bodyART with Ildiko on Ildiko's Channel (external link)  Wednesdays 6:00pm-6:45pm
Stretch & Flex with Sharon on @RURecreation (external link)  Wednesdays 6:00pm-6:50pm
Hatha Yoga with Katie on @RURecreation (external link)  Thursdays 12:10pm-1:00pm
TMC with Alex on @RURecreation (external link)  Thursdays 5:00pm-5:50pm
Groove with Ildiko on Ildiko's Channel (external link)  Thursdays 6:00pm-6:45pm
bodyART with Ildiko on Ildiko's Channel (external link)  Thursdays 7:00pm-7:45pm
Vinyasa Yoga with Sarah on @RURecreation (external link)  Fridays 4:00pm-4:50pm
HIIT with Grace on @RURecreation (external link)  Saturdays 10:45am-11:30am
Vinyasa Yoga with Maria on @RURecreation (external link)  Sundays 10:00am-10:45am
More classes coming soon!! Check back soon...    

Important! When working out at home, remember:

Everyone has different abilities and spaces - be sure to adapt exercises to your body and space, take breaks when you need them, and factor in any injuries or pre-existing conditions you may have.

There are inherent risks involved in any type of physical activity, including the possibility of personal injury and death; risks include but are not limited to: overexertion, mis-use of equipment, collision with objects, trips, slips or falls.

Looking for more familiar faces and classes? See offerings below shared by our instructors on our social media channels @RURecreation (IG (external link)  | FB (external link)  | Twitter (external link) ) or their own.  

GROOVE & bodyART with Ildiko

IGTV Live Class Recordings

If you loved one of our Instagram Live classes, check back here and on IGTV for recordings post-class and have another go whenever you feel the need to move!

Important! When working out at home, remember:

Everyone has different abilities and spaces - be sure to adapt exercises to your body and space, take breaks when you need them, and factor in any injuries or pre-existing conditions you may have.

There are inherent risks involved in any type of physical activity, including the possibility of personal injury and death; risks include but are not limited to: overexertion, mis-use of equipment, collision with objects, trips, slips or falls.

Ryerson-based resources from our colleagues, Dr. Diana Brecher and Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer:

Mindfulness & Yoga to Help Manage Stress & Anxiety

YouTube Channel Workouts

Activity & Workout Apps

Important! When working out at home, remember:

Everyone has different abilities and spaces - be sure to adapt exercises to your body and space, take breaks when you need them, and factor in any injuries or pre-existing conditions you may have.

There are inherent risks involved in any type of physical activity, including the possibility of personal injury and death; risks include but are not limited to: overexertion, mis-use of equipment, collision with objects, trips, slips or falls.

The Fitness Marshall (external link)  aka Caleb Marshall pairs the latest pop hits with funky dance-cardio choreography and a welcoming, fun vibe.

This can't-help-but-move-your-body video is just one of hundreds available...

CHAIRFIT with Eric Saava of Toronto's Variety Village offers an awesome and accessible movement option. 

Be sure to check Variety Ontario's full YouTube channel (external link)  for an ever-growing range of accessibility-minded videos.

Yoga for Stress & Anxiety - in this video Adriene guides you through breath and body practices that serve you when you feel bad. Learn breathing techniques and spinal work that will assist you in moments of stress.