Take a virtual recess with VU in the Community video series

Keep your mind and body active with a series of free, informative videos available for the whole community in a new initiative produced by Victoria University’s VU in the Community team.

Each week from early May, a new video will be premiered on Facebook featuring local legends and VU researchers tackling ways to maintain your mental wellbeing and keep physically active during isolation.  

Parents in the midst of home-schooling will welcome a virtual recess with 30-minute fun routines as part of the Kids Active Recess: Westside.  

Local legends lead online classes

Join westside icons Bianca Chatfield from VU’s Netball Academy, Josh Risdon from Western United Football Club, and Mitch Wallis and Lauren Spark from the Western Bulldogs as they set out easy-to-follow sessions focusing on football, netball and soccer skills. Dance will also be explored by cultural powerhouse L2R Dance in collaboration with Footscray Community Arts Centre.

“A good fitness routine is always a benefit for kids. During this time we have to be a bit creative with how we train, but keeping it up, even if it’s just a little bit each day will keep the kids active, entertained and healthy for when they can return to their regular sports and activities.”
– Josh Risdon, Western United Football Club

The short videos will be easy for any family to incorporate into their routine, and provide a unique way to direct your kids’ energy bursts.

“I’ve tried to keep it fun, simple and something that families can all do together, or on their own. It’s free for everyone so I can’t wait to see who joins me for a session!”
– Bianca Chatfield, VU Netball Academy

VU researchers share insights

As we all adapt to the new circumstances resulting from COVID-19, VU researchers are working hard to share their research findings in accessible, consumable ways.

VU Research in Brief will bring this information into your living rooms. There’s no complicated terminology in these videos, only take-home and applicable resources to help you navigate and optimise your mental wellbeing. 

In under 20 minutes, discover the links between mindfulness and exercise with Michaela Pascoe, and learn how to manage tensions within your household with clinical psychologist Dr Glen Hosking.

This video series will have something for young and old, mind and body.

Video schedule

How to view the videos

All videos will be premiered on the VU in the Community Facebook page and freely available thereafter.