OTTAWA, ON - April 30, 2025 - Brazily Fitness today announced the launch of its innovative campus dance club program at the University of Ottawa and OCAD University in Toronto, aimed at addressing the growing mental health crisis among college students. The initiative comes in response to a 2024 study identifying dance as the most effective activity for combating depression among young adults.

The program will establish Brazily Dance clubs on campuses, training and certifying student instructors to lead sessions that combine Brazilian dance styles with fitness elements. These certified instructors will serve as ambassadors for mental wellness, helping peers build confidence, resilience, and community connections.

"College students today face unprecedented mental health challenges, with anxiety and depression rates reaching alarming levels," said Mariana Santos, founder of Brazily Fitness. "Our campus program harnesses the scientifically-proven power of dance to transform mental health outcomes while creating supportive communities where students can literally 'Dance Themselves Brave.'"

The mental health crisis among college-aged individuals has reached critical levels, with 44% of students reporting symptoms of depression and 37% experiencing anxiety disorders, according to recent data from the American College Health Association. Traditional support services on campuses are overwhelmed, creating an urgent need for innovative, accessible wellness solutions.

Brazily's approach is supported by compelling research. A comprehensive 2024 study published in the Journal of Mental Health and Physical Activity found dance to be more effective than other forms of exercise in reducing depression symptoms, with participants showing a 62% improvement in mood and a 47% reduction in anxiety measures after eight weeks of regular dance sessions.

The campus program features several key components:

• Weekly Brazily Dance sessions led by certified student instructors
• Instructor certification program providing leadership opportunities
• Community-building events and challenges
• Mental health education integrated into dance instruction
• Opportunities for creative expression through Brazilian dance forms

"What makes this program unique is how it transforms the mental health conversation from clinical treatment to joyful prevention," explained Aaya Mahdi, Brazily Fitness Club President at The University of Ottawa. "The Brazilian dance elements specifically promote confidence through expressive movement while the community aspect addresses loneliness – both critical factors in student wellbeing."

The University of Ottawa and OCAD University pilots will begin in September 2025, with expansion plans for twenty additional Canadian universities by Fall 2026. Each campus club aims to certify at least five student instructors who will lead regular sessions reaching hundreds of students.

The program's emphasis on peer leadership creates a sustainable model where students not only receive mental health benefits but develop valuable leadership skills. Certified instructors gain experience in group facilitation, public speaking, and community building – transferable skills for future careers.

"We're not just teaching dance moves," Santos added. "We're building a movement where students support each other through the universal language of music and movement. When you see someone transform from anxious and isolated to confident and connected through dance, you understand the profound impact this approach can have."

The Brazilian cultural elements incorporated into Brazily Dance create a unique experience that resonates with young adults. The vibrant music, expressive movements, and community-centered approach align with students' desire for authentic experiences that feel meaningful rather than prescribed.

For more information about the Brazily Fitness campus program or to inquire about bringing Brazily Dance to your campus, visit www.brazilyfitness.com or contact [email protected].

About Brazily Fitness: Founded in 2022, Brazily Fitness combines Brazilian dance traditions with modern fitness approaches to create accessible, joyful movement experiences. The company's mission is to improve mental and physical wellbeing through dance, with a particular focus on building confidence and community. Their signature slogan, "Dance Yourself Brave," encapsulates their belief in dance as a pathway to courage, resilience, and joy.

Media Contact:
Mariana Santos
Founder/CEO - Brazily Fitness Inc.
[email protected]
873-288-5488