The Ontario Lung Association has partnered with The Velocity Sports Performance & Fitness in Owen Sound to offer members and non-members the opportunity, at no charge, to take part in a Quit & Get Fit program.
Participants receive a free gym membership and 16 free personal training sessions that combine smoking cessation support with fitness and health information.
In return for the 16 free personal training sessions, participants will be asked to complete five confidential on-line surveys to help evaluate the program.
Quit & Get Fit is based on studies that demonstrate how physical activity, and even deep breathing, can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and can also assist in curbing possible post-quitting weight gain. Physical activity can also help reduce cigarette use for those unwilling to or unable to quit.
Funded by the Government of Ontario, Quit & Get Fit grew out of a pilot program developed in 2010 by the Ontario Lung Association. Using one-on-one coaching and motivational interaction between a personal fitness trainer and a client, the program incorporates cessation approaches into a personal health and wellness plan.
Program registration is limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis until January 8 or until space is full.
Register online at http://www.quitandgetfit.ca
Physical activity has been proven to help a quit attempt. It can:
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Reduce cigarette cravings
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Manage withdrawal symptoms, including depression, irritability, restlessness and poor concentration
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Reduce consumption
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Help reduce post-quitting weight gain
The Ontario Tobacco Research Unit identifies tobacco use as the leading cause of preventable disease and death in Ontario, linked to approximately 13,000 avoidable premature deaths annually.
