Specialty Programs

Fitness and Mobility Exercise (FAME) Program

The FAME program is an evidence-based exercise class exercise developed for adults recovering from a stroke that has since been expanded to include adults with other neurological conditions that affect balance and mobility. The program is adapted from the highly successful original FAME program developed by Dr. Janice Eng at the University of British Columbia which has been shown to improve strength, balance, cardiovascular fitness, bone density and reduce falls in people recovering from a stroke.

FAME’s core components are functional strength, agility, cardiovascular fitness, and balance which are all practiced within a supervised and supportive environment. The exercises are modelled upon normal movement patterns and progress in intensity over time through the addition of repetitions and resistance.

An intake assessment with our BodyWorks FAME instructors is required prior to class participation.

Participants must be able to stand for 5 min, able to walk 10 m with or without assistive devices (cane or walker), able to follow instructions and communicate with the instructor, medically stable, independent in making transfers and using the washroom.

Features:

• Instructors supervise and modify activity to ensure appropriate level of difficulty for all participants regardless of fitness level
• Exercises are performed for high repetitions to improve neural connections
• Practice strength, agility and balance exercises to improve walking confidence and independence

Schedule and Pricing:

• Mondays and Wednesdays at 1pm and 2pm
• $10/class, sold in 15 week program terms as either 1 day/week or 2 days/week
• Program terms closely align with the UBC Academic Term Calendar: Winter (January to April), Spring + Summer (May to August), Fall (September to December)

BC Brain Wellness Program

In collaboration with The BC Brain Wellness Program, we offer in-person, evidence-based exercise classes for people with chronic brain conditions. These classes are opportunities to provide an immersive, hands-on learning environment for students, and for participants to receive face-to-face exercise instruction. The circuit style classes include bodyweight and resistance exercises to develop strength and aerobic fitness, as well as agility, gait training and balance exercises to improve locomotion. It also features coordination and cognitive exercises to challenge the brain.

Exercise programming is not condition specific, but all exercises are designed to be adaptable and accessible to all participants regardless of fitness level.

An intake assessment with our BodyWorks BC Brain Wellness Program instructors is required prior to class participation.

Participants must be able to stand for 15 min, able to walk 50 m with or without assistive devices (cane or walker), able to follow instructions and communicate with the instructor, medically stable, and independent in making transfers and using the washroom.

Features:

• Instructors work closely with participants to monitor exertion and modify activity as needed
• Incorporates combined physical and cognitive exercise, or dual-tasking, which provides additional cognitive benefits over exercise alone
• Exercise with others in a safe and supportive environment

Schedule and Pricing:

• Tuesdays and Thursdays at 1pm and 2pm
• $10/class, sold in 15 week program terms as either 1 day/week or 2 days/week
• Program terms closely align with the UBC Academic Term Calendar: Winter (January to April), Spring + Summer (May to August), Fall (September to December)

Click here to learn more about the BC Brain Wellness Programs and the other programs it offers, including Creative and Expressive Classes and Public Education Events.

Mind in Motion

Mind in Motion is an evidence-based exercise program for UBC students with depressive symptoms. This 6-week exercise program includes two one-hour sessions per week. The exercise programming includes a range of strength and aerobic exercises, and is tailored towards the student’s goals.

Features:

• Personal trainers have received additional training on mental health literacy.
• Exercise is recognized in Canada as a front-line treatment for mild-to-moderate depression. This program offers a safe, evidence based treatment option for students in a supportive environment.
• Exercise can help to boost confidence and to feel in control of your own health.
• Participation in this program can co-occur with other treatment options (e.g. medication or talk therapy)