Research and Education | UW Fitness | University of Waterloo

Teens In Motion (TIM) is a free exercise programs for clinically overweight teenagers (12-16 yrs of age). The aim of the program is to encourage participants to be more active, give them the confidence and skills to try new activities in their school or community, and educate them on the importance of healthy eating. TIM advocates for long term lifestyle change as opposed to short term weight loss.

Introducing participants to movement patterns, games and sport skills in a fun, "no-pressure" environment improves movement coordination and boosts self-confidence. Our belief is that improving coordination, strength, cardiovascular fitness, sport skills and confidence will increase the chances of the participants wanting to try new activities in their school or community.

TIM participants partake in cardiovascular activities, movement oriented games, circuits and sport skills. Participants also learn to use standard gym equipment safely with age-appropriate guidelines. Exposure to various cardiovascular and resistance training techniques using machines, free weights, exercise tubing and body weight as resistance helps build the functional strength and endurance base for other sports activities. After taking part in TIM, we want participants to feel comfortable exercising in a community gym facility and trying various recreational and sporting activities.

Nutrition "workshops" are offered to both participants and parents of TIM by a Registered Dietician. These informal sessions include various nutrition related topics, recipe suggestions and an opportunity to ask a Registered Dietician specific nutrition questions. For both physical activity and nutrition, the critical goal is to show both the participants and their parents that the right choice is an easy choice.

TIM is offered once per week for twelve weeks during the winter and fall terms. The program takes place at UW Fitness, University of Waterloo. TIM is supervised by certified exercise professionals who provide a fun, non-judgemental, encouraging atmosphere for youth participation.

Entrance into the program starts off with a referral from a family doctor or pediatrician. Please contact UW Fitness for referral forms.

Teens in Motion