Free exercise classes to support mental wellbeing

SportsPark is offering colleagues and students free taster sessions this Mental Health Awareness Week (15-19 May).

Classes including Zumba, pilates and yoga are available to staff and students across the week at the SportsPark on Whiteknights campus.

These classes are being offered in support of the Government’s Every Mind Matters campaign, which is promoting exercise as an effective way of boosting mood. Physical activity can be a great way for many people to destress and support their mental wellbeing. Even a ten minute burst of activity can boost your mood, but it’s recommended that adults who are able to take part in 75-150 minutes of exercise per week.

Line managers are encouraged to allow staff to take the time to attend a class if they wish, or take the time for a walk or other activity in the working day. 

For more ideas of how to use exercise to support mental health, visit the Every Mind Matters site.

Taster class timetable

All sessions are 30 minutes long. For more information about what to expect from the class, visit the SportsPark website.

To sign up, submit your request using this online form. Please note: spaces are very limited, and you will be contacted by email if you’ve secured a space on a taster class.

Changing facilities are available, and there are lockers for valuables. You should dress appropriately for the activity and be ready for a prompt start. Please bring your staff ID.

If you’re no longer able to attend, please email communications@reading.ac.uk so we can try and offer the place to someone else.

SportsPark also offers special membership rates for staff. For more information, visit SportsPark’s membership page.

Other support available

The University’s staff health and wellbeing hub has lots of resources for anyone looking for further mental health and wellbeing support, including access to our Employee Assistance Programme, Wellbeing Peer Support, and advice on handling common stressors.

For advice on support students who request help, read our new supporting student wellbeing guidance on the Staff Portal.