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The Gryphons Empowered by Movement (GEM) Program is a peer-to-peer wellness initiative designed to support students experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or depression through the power of physical activity. Sometimes the heaviest weight in the gym is the front door. A collaboration between Student Wellness and the Athletics Centre, GEM bridges the gap between mental and physical health by creating a supportive, low-barrier pathway into movement and recreation. 

Participants are paired with a trained GEM Buddy who provides encouragement, accountability, and guidance throughout the program. Together, buddies and participants meet in person at the University of Guelph Athletics Centre (or virtually upon request) and explore different ways to incorporate movement into daily life—including that may include activities such as walking, yoga, fitness classes, and weight training—at a pace and frequency that feels comfortable.

Over the course of the program, participants often report increased confidence, reduced stress, improved mood, better sleep, and a greater sense of belonging in a fitness environment. As one participant shared, “The gym is very big and scary, but my buddy showed me that it isn’t so bad,” while another noted, “I didn’t know where to even start, but now I’m even considering coming to the gym by myself”.

Eligible students can join GEM through a referral from a counsellor, Student Wellness Navigator, Student Accessibility Services, or by self-referral. Participants are welcome to bring a friend to sessions if they choose.

For more information or to learn about eligibility, students can contact gem@uoguelph.ca.