“If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you” – Fred DeVito
By Sally Stelling, Physiotherapist
There is an overwhelming amount of evidence on how exercise helps both the body and the brain. It helps with sleep, improves mood, improves balance and reduces risk of falls. It even has the potential to reduce disease-associated symptoms. Why is it that we find it so hard to do the things we know are good for us? As a runner, I know the hardest part of any workout is getting out the door!
The BC Brain Wellness exercise classes began in late November 2019. Over the course of three months, the program grew to include 28 participants striated to four different exercise groups. Individual assessments were conducted at the UBC Physical Therapy and Research Clinic with the assistance of the Department of Physical Therapy and UBC Physical Therapy students. Exercise classes were run at The Jack and Darlene Poole Gym in the Chan Gunn Pavilion and were supported by Physical Therapy and Kinesiology student volunteers.
Since then, participants have noted how helpful the program has been physically, mentally and socially. Many of the individuals we work with are seniors, and one participant told us that old age often brings with it a sense of isolation and a fear of being a burden to others. She says the Brain Wellness exercise program offers a safe space where she feels she belongs and offers her the opportunity to fully be herself.
We also incorporate small mental exercises—such as counting backwards in intervals of three and naming fruits from a–z—because research suggests there are benefits to doing cognitive tasks while exercising. One participant said practicing these mental exercises has had a cumulative benefit in terms of both confidence and capability in her daily life.
As our program picked up momentum, we unexpectedly had to suspend classes in mid-March because of COVID-19. The Brain Wellness team worked hard to quickly transition into exercising via virtual online classes. It was, and continues to be, a steep learning curve!
For those of us who are motivated by goals, routines and social connection, the restrictions of Covid-19 (especially isolation) have been challenging. It is hard to measure success and it can be frustrating to exercise in isolation. For those managing new symptoms or changes in physical function, isolation can be even harder.
But it soon became apparent that being able to continue exercising in a virtual group setting was a huge benefit for many people. The camaraderie that we built in the first three months continues to grow. As a group, we have adapted and learned to exercise in small spaces with no equipment; we have brain stormed how best to meet the needs of all participants; and we have learned how to keep classes challenging and interesting, while still meeting the basic fundamental movement, balance, strength, flexibility and cardiovascular components of the classes.
Many participants have been surprised at how well the online platform is working. Some members are finding it even easier to simply login from home rather than travel to UBC, and say these classes provide much needed structure during the pandemic. They also provide an opportunity to stay socially connected, with one member pointing out how nice it is to see other classmates a few times a week when interactions with others have been limited.
As of today, we have 47 people participating in group exercise classes with the help of Kinesiology student volunteers. We have seven different classes a week and individual initial assessments continue via Telehealth through the UBC Physical Therapy and Research Clinic. It is clear that virtual exercise classes are here to stay. They will not replace in person classes but will continue as an alternative option to support the wider community.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, these programs and assessments are offered for free.
Should you wish to participate in the BC Brain Wellness Exercise program please register here. An initial assessment is needed to determine which classes are appropriate for you.