Parisian Initiative “Move Your Mind” Combines Sports and Mental Health Workshops
In a groundbreaking initiative, the City of Paris has partnered with the renowned sports brand ASICS to launch the “Paris, Move Your Mind” program. This innovative scheme aims to harness the positive effects of physical activity on mental health, a sentiment shared by 88% of Parisians according to a recent YouGov study conducted in the summer of 2023.
Empowering Parisians Through Sport
The “Paris, Move Your Mind” program, known locally as “Paris, Bouge ton Esprit,” offers a unique combination of sports sessions and therapeutic workshops designed to improve mental well-being. The program targets diverse groups, including women, the elderly, and children, encouraging them to incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.
Mind Runs: A Dual Approach
The core of the program revolves around Mind Runs, which are divided into two parts:
- Adapted Sports Sessions: Led by professional coaches from the City of Paris or ASICS, these weekly sessions cater to all fitness levels, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility.
- Therapeutic Workshops: These workshops address various mental health themes such as self-confidence, stress, and anxiety. Participants receive guidance and support from mental health experts.
Specialized Programs and Partnerships
In collaboration with the Maison Sport Santé in the 19th arrondissement, the initiative also includes sports sessions for individuals with medical prescriptions. Notably, the “Fence Yourself” program offers fencing classes to help women who have experienced gender-based and sexual violence regain their confidence.
Renovation of Sports Facilities
As part of this partnership, ASICS and the City of Paris have undertaken the renovation of several sports facilities, including the historic Pershing Stadium in the Bois de Vincennes (12th arrondissement). These renovations, focusing on accessibility, link the stadium with the National Institute for Sport, Expertise, and Performance (INSEP), a leading institution for elite sports in France.
Promoting Physical Activity
With the Paris 2024 Olympic Games on the horizon, these weekly support programs aim to combat sedentary lifestyles among Parisians. Running and walking starting points are spread throughout the city, including a dedicated site for young Parisians at QJ (Quartiers Jeunes) in the 1st arrondissement.
Key Figures
- 284 minutes: The average weekly physical activity time for a Parisian (315 minutes for men and 244 minutes for women).
- 61%: The percentage of Parisians mindful of their mental health.
- 48%: The percentage of Parisians who wish to engage in sports activities.
Contact Information
For more information about the “Paris, Move Your Mind” program, please contact the press service at press.mediacentre@paris.fr.
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