The Run to Quit program is open for spring registration, giving smokers an opportunity to quit smoking while enjoying the benefits of becoming physically active outdoors.
Run to Quit, introduced in 2016 by the Canadian Cancer Society, Running Room and the Public Health Agency of Canada has shown promising results. According to an evaluation team at UBC, a survey taken by participants after year.
According to an evaluation team at UBC, a survey taken by participants after year one shows the program has lead to a decrease in participants smoking and influenced measurable healthy behaviour and lifestyle change.
The 10-week training programs will be held in select Running Room locations across the province. Clinic start dates in Kelowna on April 8 at Orchard Plaza.
Kelowna Run to Quit instructor, Scott Thomson, who once smoked a pack a day, says he knows first-hand how difficult it is to quit, “You get into a mindset and you’re not sure if you can quit, you first have to reset your mind and with the program we help you stay on track from there. It’s a slow process, but very worthwhile and we’re looking forward to helping people interested in quitting smoking.”
Run to Quit is a unique program that pairs the quit-smoking expertise of the Canadian Cancer Society with Running Room Canada’s learn to walk or run five-kilometre clinics. The step-by-step program helps smokers cope with discomfort and cravings through its simple and encouraging approach to cutting down while they become more physically active.
In its first year, Run to Quit welcomed more than 1,000 participants in all three streams of the program – online, do it yourself, and in-store training. In-store training was offered in 21 Running Room stores in six provinces.
This year, the program has expanded to include 50 stores in all provinces as well as online training options available three times per year. The program will continue to expand to more than 100 stores next year to reach as many smokers as possible.