Mary's favourite occupation is clubbercise!

In OT week, your OTs are sharing their favourite occupations outside of work.  This is Mary's...

About a year ago, I found myself craving something new. I’d been a regular at the gym and enjoyed playing football, but I was growing tired of the monotony of gym routines and frustrated by recurring football injuries. I needed a fresh challenge — and a good laugh!

That’s when I stumbled upon Clubbercise. Maybe it was the glow sticks, the dark room, or the high-energy beats that first drew me in, but now I’m hooked! This unique environment, filled with a lively group of ladies and gents, has become my favourite way to release stress and truly let go at the end of the day. As with any new challenge, I was initially a bit apprehensive, but Clubbercise quickly turned into one of the most enjoyable and uplifting parts of my week.

As occupational therapists, we know that engaging in meaningful and fulfilling activities is crucial for overall wellbeing. Activities like Clubbercise provide opportunities for self-expression and social connection — after all, nothing quite compared to catching your friend belting out Pump It by the Black Eyed Peas like nobody’s watching!

A balanced range of activities is essential for health and recovery. As occupational therapists, we view participation in purposeful leisure activities as vital, as it promotes not only physical and mental wellbeing but also helps rebuild confidence, foster social connections, and encourage independence.

Taking that first step into any new activity can have an immediate impact, and, more importantly, it helps people develop resources, independence, and autonomy for the future. By setting aside time for personal growth and challenge, you make a lasting investment in lifelong health. In short, engaging in something new is a powerful way to enrich your life, broaden your horizons, and contribute to long-term health and happiness.

Who knew that a dark room and some neon beats could be the best medicine?