New recruits wanted for lifestyle-changing program and research project
Named for the three goals represented in the program—physical activity, healthy eating and teamwork—UBC’s HAT TRICK is back for its third period.
Associate Professor Cristina Caperchione, who teaches in UBC Okanagan’s School of Health and Exercise Sciences, has teamed up with the Kelowna Rockets, to offer a free, 12-week program for local men who are hoping to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
HAT TRICK is an innovative healthy lifestyle program to help local men increase physical activity, improve nutritional habits, and enhance their social connectedness. The researchers are joined by professionals with the Kelowna Rockets, including team trainers and nutritionists, as well as other community-based professionals who can coach participants to adopt new healthy habits.
“This particular program is unique in the sense that it allows us to use the facilities and resources available to our staff, coaches, trainers and our hockey players to relay a message of positive living and a healthy lifestyle,” says Anne-Marie Hamilton, with the Kelowna Rockets. “That’s all very much part of what our players, and the Rockets organization, are all about.”
The next session begins in September and new recruits are needed. While it takes place at Prospera Place, participants do not need to know how to skate or play hockey; in fact, no athletic ability is required. HAT TRICK is designed for men who fit all of the following criteria:
- Living in the Okanagan
- 35 years or older
- Accumulate less than 150 minutes of physical activity per week
- Have a pant size greater than 38 inches
- Have a Body Mass Index over 25 kg/m2
The weekly 90-minute sessions will be led by healthy lifestyle experts from the research team, Kelowna Rockets staff and other community health professionals. The group will meet Tuesday evenings until the end of November.
To learn more or to sign up, contact Kayla Fitzpatrick at kayla.fitzpatrick@ubc.ca, 250-807-8488 or visit: hattrick.ok.ubc.ca.
This UBC program is funded by the Canadian Cancer Society and is made up of a collaborative research team from UBC Okanagan, UBC Vancouver, Athabasca University and the University of Glasgow.
—30—