Road To TMU: Recreation & Active Wellbeing
The TMU-wide Orientation Week - Road To TMU (external link) - takes place one week before classes begin and gives you the chance to connect with other new students, get familiar with your academic program, and get to know your way around campus.
As part of 'O-Week', TMU Recreation has a full slate of events and programs to make for a fantastic - and active - start to your time at TMU, and to help you discover ways to find community and get active all school year long.
O-Week Event Highlights
Schedule: O-Week x Recreation - August 26-30, 2024
Be Well. Feel Well. Do Well. Chill Lounge
Hosted in partnership with Student Health & Wellbeing
- 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Monday, August 26, 2024 (EDT)
- Gould Street Fair, Gould Street
Join us in the Be Well. Feel Well. Do Well. Chill Lounge as part of the Gould Street Fair, where students can explore a wide range of campus resources and services available to enhance your experience. Meet the student-leaders who bring our TMU Recreation programs and services to life and learn how movement can shift your wellbeing and learning this year - and find options that suit your interests and schedule.
First Gen moves: Dance Workshop (external link)
- 1:00 PM- 2:30 PM, Monday, August 26, 2024 (EDT)
- RAC Gym 2, Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
Join us for an afternoon of connection and celebration within the First Generation community (A first generation student is the first in their family to be attending post-secondary studies anywhere in the world).
Led by a dance instructor, this inclusive workshop invites all skill levels to explore movement in a supportive environment. Learn new techniques, express yourself through choreography, and bond with peers. Plus, bring your competitive spirit for an exciting game of “Pass the Parcel”, a game where we pass around a gift box and remove a layer of gift wrap each time the song stops playing. Whoever has it last when there’s no longer any more gift wrapping will win the prize found inside!
Peaceful Pathways: A Guided Meditation (external link)
Hosted in partnership with Student Health & Wellbeing & SMASH
- 2:00 PM- 3:00 PM, Monday, August 26, 2024 (EDT)
- Studio 1, Recreation & Athletic Centre (RAC)
As university students, it is important to balance school and work with relaxation and rest. Join us for a guided mindfulness meditation, led by one of Recreation’s talented fitness trainers. The meditation will take place on the ground. Yoga mats and blankets will be provided. Space is limited.
International Dance Party
- 6:00 PM-8:00 PM, Monday, August 26, 2024 (EDT)
- Lake Devo, Gould Street
Move to the rhythm and sounds of the world at the International Night Market (external link) ! Join TMU Recreation's dance fitness instructors as you and your newest friends - and our DJ - bring Lake Devo to life.
Be Well. Feel Well. Do Well. Chill Lounge
Hosted in partnership with Student Health & Wellbeing
- 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 (EDT)
- Gould Street Fair, Gould Street
Join us in the Be Well. Feel Well. Do Well. Chill Lounge as part of the Gould Street Fair, where students can explore a wide range of campus resources and services available to enhance your experience. Meet the student-leaders who bring our TMU Recreation programs and services to life and learn how movement can shift your wellbeing and learning this year - and find options that suit your interests and schedule.
Eat Well: Nutrition & Cooking Demo (external link)
- 12:00 PM- 2:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 (EDT)
- Floor 8 Common Space, Daphne Cockwell Complex (DCC)
Are you ready to try some delicious food? Come join us for an exciting food demonstration where you'll learn how to prepare a mouthwatering meal step-by-step. Our expert chef will guide you through the process, sharing tips and techniques that you can easily replicate at home without breaking the bank. But that's not all! You'll also get to sample the delicious meal, and mingle with peers and wellbeing staff. To make sure you can recreate the magic later, we'll provide you with handy recipe cards to take home. This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about nuturition programming at TMU. Bring your friends and your appetite - and we will handle the rest!
Shuttlepong Adventures: Table Tennis & Badminton
- 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 (EDT)
- RAC Gyms, Recreation & Athletic Centre (RAC)
Join us for the ShuttlePong Adventures, a thrilling celebration of two beloved sports: badminton and ping pong! This unique event brings together enthusiasts and players of all skill levels for a dynamic event filled with friendly competition, friend building and plenty of laughs!
Activate the RAC (external link)
- 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 (EDT)
- Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
An event designed to energize and engage TMU students by showcasing a variety of activities and facilities available through RECREATION. Whether you're a complete newbie, a casual exerciser or a fitness enthusiast, this event has something for everyone. Come and be part of "ACTIVATE THE RAC" – a celebration of wellbeing and community. Let's get moving together!
As part of Activate the RAC, look for:
- Cardio Gallery & Accessibile Strength Circuit orientation
- Functional Training Room orientation
- Fitness Centre and Beginner-on-Weights orientation
- Learn To: Women's Only Volleyball
- Spin Class
- Spikeball
- Recreational Clubsfest
Be Well. Feel Well. Do Well. Collaging (external link)
- 2:00 PM- 5:00 PM, Tuesday, August 27, 2024 (EDT)
- Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
Ready to get creative? No experience needed! Collage is a super fun and easy way to dive into art. With a mix of awesome supplies at your fingertips, you can explore and create something totally unique. Imagine getting lost in the joy of picking cool pieces and mixing them with different textures and textiles. Your collage can be as small or as big as you want, and as simple or layered as you like. Come sit with your fellow students and let yourself play! This event also allows students an opportunity to learn more about wellbeing services at TMU. We can't wait to see what you create!
Bollywood Dance Class (external link)
- 12:00 PM- 1:00 PM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024 (EDT)
- Studio 1, Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
Get ready to groove to the beats of Bollywood music and learn some fun dance moves at our Bollywood Dance Class! Led by a professional instructor, this class is perfect for anyone eager to experience the vibrant and energetic dance style of Bollywood. You'll have the opportunity to learn popular Bollywood songs, explore different dance styles, and make new friends along the way. So, invite your friends, put on your dancing shoes, and immerse yourself in the magic of Bollywood!
Women's Only Glowga (external link)
Registration encouraged to reserve your spot: (google form) Register Now! (external link)
- 2:00 PM- 3:30 PM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024 (EDT)
- Upper Gym (KHW-271), Kerr Hall West (KHW)
Join us for Women's Only Glowga, a unique and empowering yoga event designed exclusively for women and those who identify as women. Experience the serenity and strength of yoga in a vibrant, glow-in-the-dark setting that will light up your day and elevate your spirit. Focus on your wellbeing while connecting with other women in a supportive and inclusive environment, fostering a sense of community. This event is also a wonderful opportunity to learn about all of TMU Recreation's Women's Only Programming.
Ohhh Pickles! Your Introduction to Pickleball
- 2:00 PM- 4:00 PM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024 (EDT)
- RAC Gyms, Recreation & Athletic Centre (RAC)
Discover the excitement of pickleball at "Ohhh Pickles!" - an event designed to introduce you to one of the fastest-growing sports in the world! A cross between tennis, badminton and ping pong, this sport is appropriate for all levels. With simple rules, Pickleball is a fabulous introductory sport. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, this fun-filled event offers something for everyone. No more watching by the sidelines... come join the fun!
TMU Bold Pep Rally (external link)
- 6:00 PM- 7:00 PM, Wednesday, August 28, 2024 (EDT)
- MAC Home Court (2nd Floor), Mattamy Athletic Centre (MAC)
The TMU Bold Pep Rally gives students the opportunity to meet and preview their TMU Bold basketball teams, show their school spirit and learn more about varsity game days at the MAC. Attendees are invited to compete in dance battles, three point contests and relay races, plus plenty of opportunities to enter contests and win exclusive prizes. Fans will also be given important information and insider tips on how and where to watch TMU Bold games this season!
Access the RAC: Facility Orientation
Start by meeting Recreation staff at 31 Gerrard St. East as they guide you to the RAC's accessible entrance through Kerr Hall West.
- 12:00 PM- 2:30 PM, Thursday, August 29, 2024 (EDT)
- Meet at 31 Gerrard St. Entrance, the accessible entrance to the Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
Join us for Access the RAC, an inclusive multi-opportunity event designed to celebrate accessibility, while highlighting accessible physical activity options at the RAC. Start with 'Where Disability Meets Art' (more details below), an enriching, multi-sensory experience for all participants. Discover easy navigation paths to the Recreation & Athletic Centre (RAC) and essential accessibility features to ensure a seamless experience for students with disabilities. Students will be able to tour accessibility features of the RAC, including an introduction to RAC's accessible strength and cardio circuit and accessible pool lift. Then try an adaptive chair yoga class (more details below).
When Disability Meets Art: Drop-In Art Studio (external link)
- 12:30 PM- 2:30 PM, Thursday, August 29, 2024 (EDT)
- Studio 1, Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
"When Disability Meets Art" brings together all abilities, to celebrate everyone's right to create art. We will explore various art modalities, in the creation of individual and collaborative artmaking. Featuring a multidisciplinary artist and facilitator, and a variety of art supplies, including adaptive tools to ensure accessibility. An exhibit will be on display for the remainder of Orientation Week and into the first week of fall term, for those interested in showcasing their artwork. This event is open to students who identify as having a disability. Refreshments provided.
Every Now & Zen: Chair Yoga (external link)
- 2:00 PM- 3:00 PM, Thursday, August 29, 2024 (EDT)
- Studio 2, Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
Come to an adaptive yoga session that is sure to be fun. Modified postures are inclusive of all abilities, while gentle movements will cultivate a relaxed state of mind. In collaboration with TMU Recreation. Refreshments will be provided.
Purple Fins: Trans and non-binary affirming swimming
Hosted in partnership with Toronto Purple Fins (external link)
- 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM, Thursday, August 29, 2024 (EDT)
- Time correction: This event was previously listed as 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM in error; 8:30 PM - 10:00 PM is the correct event time
- RAC Pool, Recreation and Athletics Centre (RAC)
The Toronto Purple Fins are a gender-free swim club led by certified swim coaches who identify as trans, genderqueer and gender fluid. As a special invitation during O-Week, all trans, non-binary, and gender non-conforming TMU students are invited to join their regular weekly session in the TMU pool.
SLC Live: Body Positivity Expo
Hosted in partnership with Student Health & Wellbeing
- 7:00 PM- 10:00 PM, Thursday, August 29, 2024 (EDT)
- 7th Floor, Sheldon & Tracy Levy Student Learning Centre (SLC)
Explore and embrace body positivity in this powerful, interactive and thought-provoking experience featuring music and art, self-reflection and self-expression.
Don't miss the rest of SLC Live (external link) , as every floor of the Student Learning Centre will be activated with activities, games, music & food in collaboration with faculties and departments across campus!
Pilates Party for Residence Life
- 11:00 AM- 12:00 PM, Friday, August 30, 2024 (EDT)
- Studio 1, Recreation & Athletics Centre (RAC)
Join us for a refreshing Pilates class that welcomes all skill levels. Amidst the hustle and bustle of O-Week, this session offers a perfect opportunity to unwind, prioritize your health, and rejuvenate your mind and body. With energizing music setting the tone, this class will help you relax, refocus, and recharge, ensuring you make the most of your O-Week experience and prepare for your first week of university!
K-Pop Dance Class (external link)
- 3:00 PM- 4:00 PM, Friday, August 30, 2024 (EDT)
- Kerr Hall Quad, Kerr Hall
Get ready to dance your heart out at our K-Pop Dance Class in Collaboration with TMU Recreation! Whether you're a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner, this event is perfect for anyone who loves K-Pop and wants to learn some iconic moves. TMU Recreation's talented instructor will guide you through popular K-Pop choreography, making sure you have a blast while getting a great workout. Plus, the fun doesn't stop there! We'll also have a random play dance segment where you can show off your skills to other popular songs.
And that's not all—explore a mini marketplace with vendors selling photocards and other exciting K-Pop merch. It's a fantastic way to meet new friends with similar interests and start your university journey on a high note. Come ready to groove, shop, and make some unforgettable memories together!
Find what moves you this school year!
That's the end of the line for O-Week! But just the beginning of your active well-being journey at TMU. Moving your body - especially in community - is one of the best well-being strategies going. Plus, it doesn't just make you feel good: it makes you smarter too!
Physical activity is key to your wellbeing and academic success
Getting active remains one of our best strategies in support of our wellbeing and academic success, both for the direct benefits and the sense of community it helps build. The research is clear: Whether mood, physical health, critical thinking, creativity, recall and mental stamina - to name just a few - we feel and think better when we're regularly active. And most importantly: It doesn't matter how skilled or experienced we are - movement is movement, and transforms our days in all its forms.
Inclusive by design, committed to improving
While always a work-in-progress, our programs are designed to ensure we're not "just another gym", but rather a thoughtful place where we actively work to build inclusion. Far too many of us grow up feeling unsure, unwelcome and even unsafe in physical activity spaces.
From ensuring we have a broad range of programs for beginners to experts, a wide-range of women's only programs, ongoing efforts to address racism, homophobia and transphobia, or our focus on improving the accessibility of our facilities, programs and services, we hope you find there's a place for you with us - and are committed to learning and growing over time to ensure there is.