"Exercise triggers positive internal factors in both my mind and body with the end result that my total wellbeing increases to such an extent that every action I take is inspired by a "can do" attitude that helps me make the small steps towards acheiving my personal best in all that I do. I would encourage everyone to Exercise Your Mind and feel the benefits."
Geoff Heugill, Dual Olympic Silver and Bronze Medallist, Five Times World Champion, Eight Times World Record Holder, Seven Times Commonwealth Gold Medallist.
"Exercise is such an important part of my life and I can feel the positive effects on my state of mind immediately.
As a trainer, nothing brings me more joy than seeing the benefits that exercise brings to my clients. It is important for people to make time and make it count. Don't think about it, just get out and do it."
Michelle Bridges, Celebrity Trainer
"Not only am I a proud Ambassador for the Black Dog Institute I am also a patient. Exercise is a crucial part of my wellness plan to keep my black dog at bay."
David Spindler, Professional Golf Caddy
“It's important for a healthy mind and body to exercise regularly. My swimming has helped me to maintain my fitness and positive outlook on life.”
Libby Trickett, Olympic Gold Medalist and Television Presenter
WATCH A VIDEO NEWS RELEASE ABOUT EXERCISE YOUR MOOD WEEK FEATURING LIBBY TRICKETT, RICHARD HARRY AND PROFESSOR GORDON PARKER [WMV 6min]
"Running gives you a great natural high - I always feel better after having done a run!"
Lara Tamsett, Women's Champion of the City to Surf 2010
"Exercising regularly has not only helped me achieve great things in swimming, but has also helped me transgress into achieving in all areas of my life and maintaining a positive and balanced lifestyle. I wish to highlight to others just how beneficial a regular exercise routine can be and Exercise Your Mood Week is a great forum to do this.”
Brendan Capell, Long Distance Swimmer
"I couldn't imagine my life without sport and being able to exercise. Exercise gives you the freedom to achieve and helps motivate you when you need it the most. The fulfilment you get is like no other and at the end of your session you get an overwhelming feeling of accomplishment. Exercise really is the key to boost your mood and outlook on life & that's why it’s great that the Black Dog Institute are highlighting this in the Exercise Your Mood campaign."
Ky Hurst, Ironman Champion
“Riding a bike gives me so much joy. My body finds a rhythm and allows my mind to wander, process, focus or forget. Even on the hard days, I get to escape into the world and choose to be happier.”
Bridie O’Donnell, World Champion Cyclist
“The Exercise Your Mood program is a fantastic initiative and one I am proud to be associated with. The campaign will provide the impetus to get people moving, thus improving their mental and physical wellbeing. Given the proven relationship between exercise and a positive outlook on life, the campaign will highlight this fact and allow a large audience to understand the positives to come out of getting a little physical!”
Richard Harry, Former World Cup Winning Wallaby and Captain of the Silver Foxes.
WATCH A VIDEO NEWS RELEASE ABOUT EXERCISE YOUR MOOD WEEK FEATURING LIBBY TRICKETT, RICHARD HARRY AND PROFESSOR GORDON PARKER [WMV 6min 01 sec]
“Talking about depression is really important to me and it is why I am excited to be a Black Dog Institute Ambassador. Keeping active has helped me through some of my darkest moments, it’s why I think that the Exercise Your Mood Campaign is such a great concept.”
Preston Campbell, Rugby League Player
"Competing as a Modern Pentathlete in five different sports I fully recognise the importance of exercise to mental health.Any exercise no matter how small can make a huge different to how you feel. With depression now affecting one in five Australians, there has never been a better time to get active."
Edward Fernon, Olympic Pentathlete
“Having spent most of my life surfing, I consider exercise as necessary to not only my physical health but also my mental wellbeing. With so many Australians suffering from mood disorders, I hope this campaign promotes the benefits that a small amount of daily exercise can provide.”
Stephanie Gilmore, World Champion Surfer

"I'm lucky because I've always enjoyed exercise but I'm often lazy or down, so I get mates to rev me up. When it gets too cold to swim I hop onto my 68th birthday present, a bike. Tell your friends about your condition. I bet they will understand and support you."
John Konrads, Olympian Swimmer

"With one in five Australians experiencing depression it is important that we don’t forget the simple things that can make a difference. Exercising regularly can help in these difficult times. Follow the lead of the Black Dog Institute and Exercise Your Mood – because everyone deserves peace of mind."
Andrew Johns, Rugby League Legend
" Exercise Your Mood Week highlights the need for everyone to manage their mental health with regular physical activity. My exercise regime isn't as intense as it used to be but I do find regular brisk walks and some Pilates really helps to keep my body fit, my mind balanced and stress levels low. I also find riding my motorbike very therapeutic and definitely great exercise for my mood. Whilst I don't suffer from mental ill health it has surrounded my life, at times with tragic results. Exercise Your Mood is making a difference and that's why I am proud to support it through my Black Dog Ride."
Steve Andrews, Founder of Black Dog Ride
"Wilson Racing are honoured to have an association with the Blackdog Institute. Hopefully we can help raise awareness and go some way to destigmatise mood disorders. Most of our athletes are under 25 and from what I am told that's when depression and Bipolar mostly get diagnosed, so it could be quite close to home potentially. Riding my bike has always been my job and I got to live my dream. Our guys are well on their way to living theirs. If we can get people out and riding their bikes and releasing the happy chemicals in their brain then we will have done a small bit to help. If you see our guys training around NSW, or at a race anywhere in Australasia, get familiar and come over and say "Hi" and lets one by one find a solution to this growing problem. Get out there and Exercise your Mood people.“
Trent Wilson, Wilson Racing Team. www.bikebug.com
Depression and Bipolar Disorder Information Australia - Black Dog Institute.Copyright © 2012 Black Dog Institute
Page last updated: 4-May-2012