meeting a new standard 3
lifting the cloud of depression 4
living a healthier life 6
boosting energy with nutritional counselling 8
recovering from a stroke 10
eliminating diabetes medication 12
active aging 16
finding a healthy balance 18
2 0 1 4 R e h - F i t M a g a z i n e
R e h - F i t
It has long been recognized that regular
physical activity wards off diabetes and
cardiovascular disease, helps combat
depression, and lowers blood pressure.
Equally important, it gives us more energy
and just makes us feel better.
So why are we reluctant to make physical
activity a priority? Simply put, it’s difficult
to change our long-term habits. While
we may start out on a path with good
intentions, sustaining those new activities
can be a challenge.
Is there a solution? At the Reh-Fit Centre,
our specialized team of experts works
with more than 10,000 people every
year in helping them solve that very
issue. What we’ve found is that it’s
a combination of education, coaching,
and activity that delivers the most
lasting and positive results.
There are signs that the benefits of our
comprehensive approach are gaining
traction in the community. We’ve provided
doctors with referral pads and are seeing
more of them prescribing physical activity
and participation in our programs to help
their patients reduce their reliance
on medication and, in some cases,
eliminate the need for surgery.
In this magazine you’ll read the incredible
stories of some of those individuals who
have turned to the Reh-Fit to manage or
prevent a chronic disease. As Canada’s
first certified medical fitness facility,
the Reh-Fit is focused on providing a
welcoming environment so that people
of all ages and abilities can feel safe
and supported along the way.
I hope you’ll be inspired to realize that
living a healthier life is not only possible,
but also that it is a journey you don’t have
to take alone. I encourage you to stop by
the Reh-Fit Centre for a tour to see how
we can help you live your best life.
Sue Boreskie
CEO, Reh-Fit Centre
Scan here to watch
our new Reh-Fit
Centre video!
how are you feeling today?
To find out more about the Reh-Fit Centre’s programs and services, visit www.reh-fit.com
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 3
This Canada-wide set of shared standards
for charities and non-profits demonstrates
that the Reh-Fit has met externally-
established standards and achieved
excellence in five key areas including:
• Board Governance
• Financial Accountability and Transparency
• Ethical Fundraising
• Staff Management
• Volunteer Involvement
Sue Boreskie, CEO of the Reh-Fit Centre,
says that meeting Imagine Canada’s
standards is important for many reasons.
“It ensures that our funders, the public,
and other stakeholders can have
complete confidence that we are
operating in an ethical, accountable,
and transparent manner.”
Albert Krahn, Chair of the Reh-Fit Centre,
says that this accreditation sets the
Centre apart. “Now when individuals
see the ‘Trust Mark’ symbol on our
material, they will know we are adhering
to the highest possible standards.”
The Reh-Fit Foundation raises funds
to help Manitobans lead healthier lives
and ensure that everyone has access
to the health and wellness programs
and services they need.
Mike Sampson, Chair of the Reh-Fit
Foundation, agrees that donors are
looking for a greater level of assurance.
“We’ve always enjoyed a high level of
trust with our donors, but this gives them
the added assurance that their dollars
are being used in the best possible way.”
Currently 83 organizations across
Canada have achieved Imagine
Canada certification.
reh-fit meets a new standardThe Reh-Fit Centre and the Reh-Fit Foundation have achieved accreditation from Imagine Canada’s Standards Program.
4 | R E H - F I T P O W E R 2 0 1 4
Carol’s daughter suggested that she
visit the Reh-Fit. “I didn’t feel like doing
anything, but I came to the Reh-Fit and
had to lift my feet and just move. I started
with Indo-Row® but wasn’t really fully there
if you know what I mean. But I did it and
I did it well. I continued and somehow,
after two to three months, this cloud
began to lift.”
Recognizing the improvement in her
condition, Carol re-committed her efforts
to fitness. “I began to get excited about
the fact that I was fit. So I started taking
other classes like The Ride, and Group
Power, which is my favourite. They provided
a discipline and a structure in my life –
both of which are so important when
you’re feeling depressed.”
Carol Haines had been struggling with depression and anxiety for several months. She had been to see her physician and was trying various prescription medications. “Nothing was working,” says Carol. “My world was flat and black. If you’ve never felt depression before, it felt like a physical sickness… it felt like my world was over.”
lifting the cloud of depression
carol haines
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 5
We know that exercise is a proactive
way to enhance our physical condition
and combat disease, but did you know
that exercise is now recognized as an
essential element in building and
maintaining good mental health?
*Exercise has many psychological
benefits. For example:
• Physical activity is increasingly becoming part of the prescription for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Exercise alone is not a cure, but it does have a positive impact.
• Research has found that regular physical activity appears as effective as psychotherapy for treating mild to moderate depression. Therapists also report that patients who exercise regularly simply feel better and are less likely to overeat or abuse alcohol and drugs.
• Exercise can reduce anxiety. People who exercise report feeling less stressed or nervous. Even five minutes of aerobic exercise (exercise which requires oxygen, such as a step class, swimming, walking) can stimulate anti-anxiety effects.
• Physical exercise helps to counteract the withdrawal, inactivity, and feelings of hopelessness that characterize depression. Studies show that both aerobic and anaerobic exercise (exercise which does not require oxygen, such as weightlifting) have anti-depressive effects.
• Moods such as tension, fatigue, anger, and vigour are all positively affected by exercise.
At the Reh-Fit Centre, you can
enjoy hundreds of fitness classes
and activities available every week,
or participate in programs aimed
specifically at improving mental
health such as:
• Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction
• Strategies for Positive Mental Health
• Anxiety – Real, Disabling, and Treatable
• Get the Most Out of Life (Strategies for Treating Depression)
• Introduction to Exercise Psychology
* Excerpts from the Canadian Mental Health Association
improve your mental health
She also began volunteering at the Centre
and enjoyed the social contacts and
opportunity to help others. “There’s an
unspoken camaraderie. Everyone is here
to feel better in so many different capacities.
When I was in the midst of depression,
I felt so absolutely alone. But when I
started talking to people, I realized that
so many others have been there too.”
Carol visits the Reh-Fit four times every
week and continues to see the difference
that her newfound level of fitness brings.
“When you’re depressed, you lose your
confidence and self-esteem. I feel so
much better about who I am because
I’m doing something that helps physically
and emotionally. I found myself here again.”
She appreciates the support she
receives at the Reh-Fit. “The place is
absolutely amazing. The staff here has
been so encouraging and always there
to help me through anything. This has
been a real journey, and, as painful as
it has been, it got me here and I’m happy
with where I’m at!”
lifting the cloud of depression
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This past November, Daniel went for
a walk and felt a burning in his chest.
The pain escalated and his wife drove
him to the hospital. “The pain got worse
and when I reached the hospital I lost
consciousness. It was a cardiac arrest
with 100% blockage in my left anterior
descending coronary artery – the
one they call the ‘widow maker’.”
Daniel’s physician referred him to the
Cardiac Rehabilitation program at the
Reh-Fit Centre. “When I walked into
the classroom on my first day I felt very
weak and vulnerable. I felt so fragile
that I didn’t know if I should walk up
the stairs to the orientation room or take
the elevator. The psychologist talked to
us about the physiological impacts of
stress. I don’t think I ever paid attention
to stress in my body but subconsciously
I could feel it. Because of the program
I am more cognizant of what’s going
on with my body and it helped me
appreciate the gravity of my condition.”
As part of the program, the Reh-Fit
dietitian helps participants understand
the components of a healthy diet and
what to avoid. “I learned that I was
sometimes exceeding the limits of
sodium and saturated fats in my diet and
then justifying it by thinking I had been
active enough to counteract it. I am now
much more aware of what I’m eating.”
The Cardiac Rehabilitation program
includes an exercise program to help
participants regain their strength and
confidence. “My confidence has grown
so much that some days I do 30 minutes
of rowing, 30 minutes of treadmill and
30 minutes of cycling. None of that
would be possible without having the
sense of security provided by the overall
facility as well as having the direction of
the cardiac program’s nurse and athletic
consultant. The other thing I really like
is that it’s a great mix of all ages and
walks of life.”
As he continues to slowly re-build his
strength, Daniel knows his story might
have turned out differently. “Two weeks
before my heart attack, my Dad had a
heart attack and ultimately passed away.
It’s part of my family genetics. That’s
why I’m going to continue to come to the
Reh-Fit once the Cardiac Rehabilitation
program ends. I want to do what I can
to live a healthier life.”
Six years ago, at the age of 38, Daniel Neault went out for breakfast and felt a tightness in his chest and jaw. Suspecting he was having a heart attack, he went to the hospital but tests and an angiogram didn’t identify any blockages.
“i want to do what i can to live a healthier life”
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 7
If you have recurrent angina, recently
suffered a heart attack, or undergone
heart surgery or coronary angioplasty,
the Reh-Fit Centre’s Cardiac
Rehabilitation program can help.
As one of Canada’s foremost cardiac
rehabilitation programs, it includes
a combination of exercise and education
and involves a team of dedicated
professionals including physicians,
nurses, exercise specialists, dietitians,
and a psychologist.
More than 15,000 Manitobans with heart
disease have accessed the Reh-Fit’s
program to regain their quality of life.
Cardiac rehabilitation helps you:
• understand the level of activity you can handle safely
• restore your health and strength
• improve your diet and lifestyle
• reduce cardiac symptoms
• develop a sense of well-being and confidence
• reduce depression and anxiety, which often develop during recovery
• decrease your risk of subsequent heart attacks.
Participants pay a modest fee, with the
rest of the cost covered by the Winnipeg
Regional Health Authority. Financial
assistance may be provided based
on individual need.
renowned cardiac rehabilitation program
h e l p i n g P e o p l e l e a d h e a l t h i e r l i v e s | 7
daniel neault
“After my heart attack, I was fragile, underweight, and had to learn how to walk again. Coming to the Reh-Fit Centre gave me my life back.”
– Jeff Klyne,
Cardiac Rehabilitation participant
8 | R E H - F I T P O W E R 2 0 1 4
“I had been working out over the years
but wasn’t able to lose the weight that I
wanted. I decided to make an appointment
with the dietitian at the Reh-Fit and get
some nutritional counselling.”
As part of membership, Elaine receives
a one-hour annual session with the
dietitian and she took advantage of that.
“One of my issues was that I would get
hungrier as the day went on and would
do a lot of snacking at night. When the
dietitian looked at my eating habits, she
told me I wasn’t getting enough protein,
which helps keep you satisfied longer.
Now if I get hungry at night, I’ll eat crackers
and peanut butter or something like that
to get some protein.”
Elaine continued to meet with the
dietitian to refine her approach to food
and make small changes to help her meet
her goals. “Slowly I’m learning about food
and calories. I’ve lost about 15 pounds so
far. The dietitian introduced me to an ‘app’
on my computer that I can use to keep
track of what I eat, and then we look
at it and assess the results together.”
Combining better nutrition with physical
activity is a winning combination for
Elaine. “If I come here four times a week
to work out I will usually lose a pound.
I walk on the track, ride the recumbent
bike, do weights, and see a personal
trainer twice a year.”
The new focus on nutrition has made
a difference. “It’s nice not to have those
snack cravings at night anymore. Plus it’s
easier to relax and I don’t sweat the small
stuff as much. I feel happy and energetic
and I think this is what I need to do to
enjoy my life.”
Elaine Arsenault-Schultz began working out at the Reh-Fit Centre as a way of staying in shape. She also wanted to lose weight but found that was more difficult to do.
The Reh-Fit Centre offers nutrition and
cooking classes throughout the year. Here
are just a few of the programs we offer:
• Nutrition Basics
• Label Reading
• Grocery Store Tour
• Fat or Fiction? Understanding the Truth
• Portion Distortion
• Dash Diet Eating Plan (to prevent and treat high blood pressure)
• Cooking with Pulses
• Viva la Vegetarian
• Low Sodium Cooking
• Super Summer Salads
• Cooking for One or Two
• Cook Once, Eat for a Week
“i feel happy and energetic and think this is what i need to do to enjoy my life”
interested in learning more about nutrition?
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 9
You want to get more active, but don’t
know what kind of exercise, how often,
or how intensely you should be working
out. Where do you start?
At the Reh-Fit Centre, we start by finding
out more about your current condition with
our comprehensive Health & Fitness
Assessment. Our degreed professionals
conduct a series of baseline analyses,
such as:
• Resting heart rate and blood pressure
• Cardiovascular fitness
• Blood analysis including lipid profile, fasting blood sugar, and hemoglobin
• Muscular strength and endurance
• Flexibility
• Cardiac risk assessment
• Functional movement
• Waist circumference and body mass index
Using this baseline, we recommend
a plan that includes a combination
of physical activity and exercise class
options, nutrition counselling, and
educational programs that suit your
needs. Plus our staff is always on hand
to answer your questions, provide
alternative suggestions, help you vary
your routine, and keep you motivated.
We also share your assessment results
with your physician and continue to keep
him or her updated on your progress.
getting started the right way
h e l p i n g P e o p l e l e a d h e a l t h i e r l i v e s | 9
elaine arsenault-schultz
1 0 | R E H - F I T P O W E R 2 0 1 4
Jim was taken to St. Boniface Hospital
where they diagnosed a stroke and
quickly administered treatment. By the
next day, Jim had regained movement
and was almost fully recovered, except
for lingering dexterity issues with his
left hand. His doctor referred him to the
Reh-Fit Centre’s Stroke Exercise program.
“There were only eight of us in the class
with two instructors so the one-on-one
was excellent. The instructors designed
exercises to meet our specific needs as
we went along. A lot of us had severe
problems manipulating things with our
fingertips, so they had special exercises
for that and also to address our issues
with balance.”
It was a birthday Jim Hagemeister would never forget. “On the eve of my 79th birthday, I was watching the hockey play-offs and decided to stretch. I extended my left arm and it went limp. Then I got up and stood on my left leg and it was weak. That’s when I called my wife and she called the ambulance.”
recovering from a stroke
1 0 | r e h - f i t p o w e r 2 0 1 4
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 1 1
Over the eight-week program, Jim’s
condition improved. “I noticed a definite
difference. They also gave us balance
and dexterity exercises to do at home.”
For those who have experienced health
issues, feeling comfortable is a priority.
Jim agrees. “I feel safe here. The facility
offers absolutely everything that anyone
with a health problem would ever want:
exercise equipment, the people with the
expertise, plus the back-up equipment
to handle any issues. A friend of mine
collapsed on the track with a heart
attack. The Reh-Fit staff brought him
back with a defibrillator. If he had been
anywhere else, I’d hate to think what
might have taken place.”
Since completing the Stroke Exercise
program, Jim and his wife Ann have
become members at the Reh-Fit.
“After a stroke it’s very important that
you continue to exercise and build up
your strength as much as you can. Our
goal is to come here four days a week.
One of the machines I like is the NuStep.
It’s particularly good for people who
have had a stroke because it’s easy
on your body but you can still add as
much resistance as you want.”
With another birthday around the corner,
Jim reflects on the past year. “I feel very
lucky that I got the care I did and that
we have got the Reh-Fit Centre.”
The Stroke Exercise program is designed to improve quality of life and reduce the risk of subsequent strokes or cardiovascular events. Through the program, you receive an individualized assessment from the Reh-Fit’s inter-professional team of physiotherapists and fitness professionals so that you can exercise safely and track your improvement.
The Stroke Exercise program is just one of many programs offered at the Reh-Fit Centre to help manage and prevent disease. You can find complete details on these and many more programs at www.reh-fit.com
Lean, Keen, Kidney Machines – offers education and exercise for those managing all stages of chronic kidney disease.
Arthritis Self-Management Program – helps you reduce the impact of arthritis and pain in your life.
Young Onset Parkinson’s Exercise Program – demonstrates the power of exercise in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Improve Your Balance and Mobility – Falls Prevention – for those looking to improve their balance and prevent falls.
Get Better Together – shows you how to take control of your health, better manage pain, increase your energy level, and deal with fatigue and frustration.
Cancer Transitions – offers the insights and support you need to manage stress and health concerns, and foster healthy eating and exercise lifestyles, as you transition back to life beyond cancer.
restore your health
jim hagemeister
1 2 | R E H - F I T P O W E R 2 0 1 4
But that all changed when Jennifer was
diagnosed with diabetes two years ago.
“Even though I knew we had a family
history of diabetes, I was still surprised
to be diagnosed so young. But because
I was overweight and not active, I was
a bit of a ticking time bomb.”
Jennifer began taking prescription
medication for her diabetes. “When
I was first diagnosed, I was on all of this
medication and felt absolutely lousy.
I decided to come to the Reh-Fit Centre
to walk on the track because it was winter
and I didn’t want to walk outside.”
She started to feel better and noticed
another side effect. “The pounds started
falling off and once that happened
I started paying more attention. Now
I come here three times a week and
it has really boosted my energy and my
confidence. Activity makes everything
work better – even my knees stopped
hurting so much.”
Making changes slowly has been the key
to Jennifer’s success. “I’m setting mini goals.
I’ve been overweight all my life and can do
the drastic weight loss but it always comes
back. Now at the Reh-Fit I’ve gradually
lost 60 pounds in about 18 months.
I’d like to lose another 40 pounds and
then re-assess.”
Although Jennifer started on the walking
track, she has since expanded her
repertoire with the help of a Reh-Fit
personal trainer. “I wanted to learn how
to use the weights and then I tried
“Awesome Arms” – part of the Small
Group Workouts – to tone up.”
She also has adapted her eating habits
and incorporated strategies to suit her
lifestyle. “I love to snack in the evening
“I’m sure I was the kid in high school who drove my Phys. Ed. teacher crazy, because I wasn’t interested in being physically active at all,” recalls Jennifer Zilkey, age 45.
“i no longer need to take diabetes medication!”
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 1 3
so I make sure I allow for that in my diet.
Plus I incorporate more protein, cook
less starches, and have become more
conscious of sugar as opposed to calories.”
For Jennifer, the results are clear: “When
I was first diagnosed I was taking up to
three pills a day, then went down to two,
then one. Now I no longer need to take
any diabetes medication. My membership
at the Reh-Fit costs me a lot less than
I would have spent on medication, and
I feel so much better.”
the cost of chronic disease
1 Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC), Evidence, October 5, 2011; 2 PHAC, Evidence, December 5, 2011. Sources: YMCA Canada, Evidence, December 12, 2011; ParticipACTION, Evidence, December 12, 2011; PHAC, Evidence, October 5, 2011 20; Canadian Nurses Association (CNA), Evidence, October 17, 2011; Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) and CNA, Evidence, October 17, 2011; Canadian Diabetes Association (CDA), Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, Heart and Stroke Foundation (HSF), and Canadian Lung Association (CLA); Evidence, October 19, 2011; Adult Living Coalition for Older Adults, Evidence, October 24, 2011; Elizabeth Badley, Evidence, November 2, 2011.
In Manitoba, more than 46% of the adult population
receives medical care for one or more chronic
conditions. These conditions negatively affect our
quality of life and reduce our lifespan.
They also contribute to rising healthcare costs with
the most recent statistics indicating that chronic
disease in our country costs the Canadian economy
$190 billion every year. Approximately $90 billion of
that total is attributed to treatment and the remainder
to lost productivity.
Overall, the treatment of chronic diseases consumes
67% of all direct health care costs.
Reduced physical activity is a key contributor to
poorer overall health with fewer than half of all
Canadians being as active as they need to be.
But much can be done to reduce our risk.
Did you know that:
• 90%oftype2diabetes,80%ofcoronaryheartdisease,and33%ofcancerscanbepreventedbyhealthyeating,regularexercise,andnotsmoking?
• asmanyas25chronicdiseasesaredirectlylinkedtophysicalinactivity,andthataninactivepersonwillspend38%moredaysinhospital,use5.5%morefamilyphysicianvisits,13%morespecialistservices,and12%morenursevisitscomparedtoanactiveperson?
• chronicdiseaseisthemajorcauseofdeath?Themostprevalentchronicconditionsarecardiovasculardisease(heartdiseaseandstroke),cancer,diabetes,andrespiratorydisease.Othercommonchronicdiseasesincludearthritis,chronicpain,andmentalhealthissuessuchasdementiaanddepression.
A greater focus on prevention strategies, coupled
with improved diagnosis and management of
chronic disease, is needed as Canada heads
into the coming years of an aging demographic.
jennifer zilkey
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H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 1 5
young onset Parkinson’s exercise ProgramOne of the programs introduced this
past year is designed to benefit the
more than 1,200 Manitobans who have
been diagnosed with Young Onset
Parkinson’s Disease.
Based on emerging research showing
that exercise can have a significant effect
in reducing and delaying the onset of
symptoms, the Young Onset Parkinson’s
Exercise Program is delivered twice
a week over an eight-week period.
Sue Boreskie, CEO of the Reh-Fit Centre,
believes that for those with Parkinson’s,
exercise is a new form of medicine.
“What the research suggests is that
higher intensity exercise and frequent
exercise may help to improve the quality
of movement and provide protective
benefits to the neurons.”
The program includes a variety of higher
intensity exercise, such as cycling,
in combination with yoga that targets
range of motion and balance. Parkinson’s
is a neurodegenerative disease with no
known cure that affects more than 6,000
Manitobans. The disease eventually robs
people of their ability to perform simple
tasks, like walking or eating. Although
most people with Parkinson’s are
older, a growing number of younger
people — those between the ages
of 21 and 40 — are being diagnosed.
Howard Koks, CEO of Parkinson Society
of Manitoba, says his organization is
pleased to be collaborating with the
Reh-Fit on this program. “The Reh-Fit
Centre is known for its work helping
people prevent and manage chronic
disease. This program will be the first
of its kind in Manitoba to help those
with Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease.”
cancer transitions ProgramAnother new initiative at the Reh-Fit
Centre is the Cancer Transitions Program
offered in partnership with CancerCare
Manitoba and with the support of the
CancerCare Manitoba Foundation.
Through the program, people living with
cancer receive the information, tools,
and support they need, and learn how
to manage stress and health concerns as
they transition back to life beyond cancer.
other PartnersThis past year we were also pleased
to partner with: The Alzheimer Society
of Manitoba, The Arthritis Society,
Corydon Clinic, Manitoba in motion,
Winnipeg in motion, MS Society,
Manitoba Falls Prevention Network,
Osteoporosis Canada, the Mature
Women’s Centre and Bariatric Surgical
programs at Victoria General Hospital,
the Heart Failure Clinic and Cardiac
Sciences at St. Boniface Hospital, and
the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority.
The Reh-Fit Centre forms partnerships with hospitals and health organizations to offer specialized healthy living programs we could not offer as efficiently or as cost effectively on our own.
“I feel stronger as the Cancer Transitions program progresses. I’ve also made new friends. Overall it has been fun and helpful with wonderful instructors!
– Catherine Delmarque
your partners in good health
1 6 | R E H - F I T P O W E R 2 0 1 4
Barbara started with small steps and
took advantage of the comprehensive
assessment that was included with her
Reh-Fit membership. “I took the treadmill
stress test, which is a fairly important
component of determining heart health,
but the Reh-Fit staff also tested my
strength, flexibility, and balance, and
looked at my blood work. I met with
them again to discuss my results and
we talked about how I could improve,
classes that might suit me, and my
nutritional needs. They really took
a good look at my overall health.”
Fast forward 15 years and Barbara is fit
and active as a result of a regular routine
that includes sit-ups, planks, weights, and
balance workouts on the BOSU ball and
balance boards. “I try to come here three
or four times every week and it’s amazing.
I feel more stable and secure walking
on icy streets and find that I have good
stamina for riding my bike in the summer.”
Research shows that it’s never too late
to start incorporating more activity into our
lives but that it’s important to be supported
along the way. “As we age, we have to
stay as well as we can. I think the fact that
the Reh-Fit is a certified medical health
facility is a big part of why I love it here.
There are always qualified people on site
and I have great faith in them as trained
professionals. Plus there’s a cross-section
of people of all ages and stages, and
nobody feels embarrassed because
everyone is doing the best they can.”
For Barbara, the benefits have been great.
“Being fit allows me to live and do virtually
anything I want – walk, drive, enjoy life.”
And she couldn’t resist a smile when she
received the results of her most recent
Reh-Fit assessment. “I was happy with
my assessment – I improved the length
of time I was on the treadmill so I think
I’m getting stronger every year!”
“When I was 60 years old I had a bit of a health scare. It was a wake-up call and I thought I’d better get serious about my health. I decided to come to the Reh-Fit Centre,” says Barbara Markham.
active aging
barbara markham
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More education, training, and support
are required for the growing number
of people in our community challenged
with obesity, diabetes, cancer, heart
disease and other health concerns.
This past year, more than 10,000 people
from our community accessed the Reh-Fit
Centre’s programs and services.
With a goal of creating a healthier, more
active community, the Reh-Fit hosts
a variety of educational events to bring
you the latest information in fitness and
health. Visit www.reh-fit.com for current
and upcoming events, including:
education seminarsWant to know more about health, fitness and nutrition? Sign up for our monthly education seminars which address current health care issues and offer down-to-earth guidelines for healthy living.
health screening clinicsFrom testing your blood pressure and determining your BMI, to assessing your lung function and knowing the risks of stroke, you’ll find a variety of health screening clinics throughout the year to help identify and control your risk factors.
live healthy sPeaker seriesIf you want the latest cutting-edge research and facts on how to prevent and manage chronic health conditions, then you’ll want to join us to hear from our Live Healthy guest experts.
Throughout the year, the Reh-Fit features the industry’s top specialists who answer your questions and bring you the most up-to-date information on healthy living.
exercise is medicine™ monthDid you know that Exercise is Medicine™? Based on the finding that physical activity, in the right doses, is unparalleled in its ability to prevent and treat chronic disease, Exercise is Medicine™ month provides you with opportunities to learn more about the benefits of exercise and participate in weekly fitness challenges that emphasize the importance of 150 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity a week for health benefits.
active aging WeekIt is possible to age with energy and strength! Find out how during Active Aging Week in September. You’ll discover how to get active, stay active, and how you can access resources in our community.
smart for your heartFind out more about the world’s leading killer and how you can prevent and manage cardiovascular disease during Smart for Your Heart month in February. You can also take the
“heart challenge” – a cardiovascular assessment that measures your blood pressure, body mass index, and heart age.
“I went to the free Skin Cancer Screening Clinic offered by CancerCare Manitoba at the Reh-Fit Centre. The doctor found an insitu carcinoma on the back of my right leg. After having that removed, I went for a six month check-up and found another carcinoma on my left arm. She removed that as well and will now be checking me carefully every six months. I am so thankful that I attend the Reh-Fit and very grateful for the Screening Clinic. Because of the early detection, the cancer was not life threatening. This screening saved my life!”
– Dayle Harding
find out how you can live a healthier life!
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As newcomers to physical activity, they weren’t sure
where to start. They spoke to a nurse at the Reh-Fit
and she recommended the First Steps to Active Living
program, which was an ideal fit for the couple. “First
Steps was really helpful and was the big motivator
for getting us here more often. We learned about
all of the equipment, the classes, the staff, and even
met some of the other people working out. It’s a very
comfortable place,” says Jonathan.
The 12-week program gave them the confidence
to continue and they quickly became members.
“We joined the Group Fitness 101 class because we
liked exercising in a group. Having to be here at
a specific time works best for me because I’m in
a situation where I need to be accountable. The Reh-Fit
staff are checking to see when I’m here and I’m doing
what I’m supposed to be doing,” adds Stacey.
As Jonathan’s activity level increased, his blood pressure
decreased and he began to notice a difference. “I feel
a lot better. I walk to work and back and I used to be out
of breath. Now I’ve dropped 30 pounds and my energy
is way up. I also used to find certain situations really
stressful and now, with my lower blood pressure,
those situations aren’t as stressful.”
Committed to losing a significant amount of weight and
making sustainable lifestyle changes, Stacey enrolled
in the Reh-Fit’s Healthier Weigh program. “Overall I’ve
lost 25 pounds, my acid reflux is improving, and I’ve lost
four inches off my waist, which is pretty substantial.”
Wanting to start a family also kept the duo motivated.
“With my acid reflux I couldn’t carry even more weight
without aggravating my condition,” says Stacey.
The Lees set small goals in the beginning and are
seeing the benefits of the decisions they’ve made.
“I feel like we’re doing it better this time. The weight
is coming off slower, but it’s more about making
a lifestyle change,” notes Jonathan.
Now two years later and continuing with their healthy
lifestyle choices, the Lees are welcoming another
change into their lives. Baby Charlotte was born in
January 2014, and is keeping the couple busier than
ever. Proud Mom Stacey says, “She is such a joy and
I’m so glad we’re healthier and able to keep up with
her as she grows! Even with a new baby we make
time to come to the Reh-Fit!”
Newly married, Stacey and Jonathan Lee wanted to start their life together on the right foot - or in this case, the right running shoe. “Our health wasn’t great. We were both overweight. I had a severe form of acid reflux made worse by my weight, and Jonathan’s blood pressure was dangerously high. As young people who want to enjoy a long life and start a family together, we knew we needed to take action,” says Stacey.
finding a healthy balance together
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The Reh-Fit focuses on providing you with the
hands-on education, physical activity, coaching,
and nutrition counselling you need to feel
supported on your weight loss journey.
Come experience the important elements
of weight and lifestyle management with
programs including:
nutrition counsellingOur dietitians provide one-on-one nutrition counselling to target your specific nutrition needs.
healthier WeighThis award-winning program is for people looking to lose a significant amount of weight. Our team of professionals works with you to make sustainable lifestyle changes. Participants meet twice weekly, once for education and group discussion and once for group workouts.
kick start to Weight lossParticipants, who have a BMI of 25-29.9, meet once a week for a weigh-in, group workout, and motivational discussion.
Weekly Weigh-inOur professional staff is on hand to weigh members and provide them with ongoing support.
culinary ProgramsSpice up meals and eat healthier with ideas from our cooking classes. Register for programs such as Low Sodium Cooking, Cooking and Eating Healthy in 20 Minutes, Vegetarian Cooking, and Get Out of Your Gluten-Free Rut.
successfully manage your weight
jonathan and stacey lee
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can We reduce the risk of falls by training the brain?This clinical trial is designed to study the
effectiveness of a new exercise program
in reducing the risk of falls, the leading
cause of accidental death among older
adults. During the 10-week program,
participants watch words or moving
objects on a computer monitor and play
“brain fitness” games while they walk
on a treadmill. Participants in a second
or control group perform the same tasks
while they ride a recumbent bicycle,
which does not require as much
attention as walking on a treadmill.
Dr. Tony Szturm, Associate Professor
in the Department of Physical Therapy
at the University of Manitoba, says that
the Reh-Fit offers an ideal setting for
this ongoing research. “The team at the
Reh-Fit has already developed a strategy
for falls prevention and a procedure
for determining whether someone
is at increased risk for falls. They have
also identified members who are good
candidates for the trial.”
does exercise before surgery imProve surgical recovery?Obesity is considered a global epidemic
and Canada has one of the highest
obesity rates in western society. Bariatric
surgery is the most effective method for
sustained weight loss, and there is good
evidence to support the relationship
between physical activity and weight
loss following bariatric surgery.
Dr. Krista Hardy, Laparoscopic,
Bariatric and General Surgeon Assistant
Professor at the University of Manitoba,
is overseeing the research, which
is designed to show whether exercise
before bariatric surgery speeds
recovery afterwards.
“We know that patients undergoing
weight loss surgery have better results
when they are physically active,” says
Dr. Hardy. “What we don’t know is
whether it’s best to teach people how
to exercise before or after surgery. We’re
collaborating with the Reh-Fit to develop
an exercise program that improves the
care of all bariatric surgery patients.”
can “Prehab” contribute to Post-surgery success?Cardiac surgery is now being performed
on populations that are older than ever
before. Research shows that a patient’s
level of health before surgery is a
significant predictor of post-surgery
success.
Lead investigators Dr. Todd Duhamel, PhD
(Health, Leisure and Human Performance
Research Institute, Faculty of Kinesiology
and Recreational Management, University
of Manitoba & Institute of Cardiovascular
Sciences, St. Boniface Hospital) and
Dr. Rakesh C. Arora, MD, PhD, FRCSC
(Faculty of Medicine, Department of
Surgery, University of Manitoba & Cardiac
Sciences Program, St. Boniface Hospital),
are leading a study to find out if improving
the health of older patients prior to cardiac
surgery will improve their post-surgery
outcomes. Dr. Arora notes, “It is
hypothesized that older patients will more
successfully recover from surgery after
achieving improvements in strength,
flexibility, and overall exercise capacity.”
The Reh-Fit serves as a research setting for staff, students, and visiting professionals. Findings help us continuously improve our services and programs, and lead to advances in the scientific knowledge base of disease prevention and rehabilitation. Here are some examples of current research projects that involve our staff and facility.
research contributes to a healthier community
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 2 1
Recently published research, conducted
at the Reh-Fit Centre, indicates that
patients on the elective cardiac surgery
wait list who complete a “cardiac
prehabilitation” exercise program improve
their fitness level and functional walking
ability prior to surgery. “This is an
important finding because patients who
can walk longer distances prior to surgery
have improved health outcomes after
surgery. This research outcome may
stimulate a significant change in clinical
practice because it provides a strategy
to enhance an individual’s health status
prior to surgery so they not only survive
their cardiac procedure, but thrive after it,”
says Arora.
A combination of certified expertise,
programs, and medical fitness facility
makes the Reh-Fit Centre an ideal
research environment. “Their applied
expertise in health promotion and health
services complements our research efforts
quite well. The organizational support
provided for research is outstanding
at the Reh-Fit Centre,” adds Duhamel.
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Invest In the health of our CommunItyWith a gift to the Reh-Fit Foundation, you will support the work of the
Centre and help us meet our annual funding requirement of $1.1 million.
Your donation will be used to change and save lives by:
• Adding evidence-based programs and services that get results.
• Supporting community educational events to encourage healthy, active living for helping people who are challenged with chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.
• Providing financial support to make programs accessible to the broader community.
• Supporting research and evaluation to assess the effectiveness of health and fitness programs in building community health.
• Contributing to more collaborative efforts with other groups and health-related organizations to bring innovative programs and services to the community.
• Assisting with major facility and equipment projects.
Charitable Registration Number
10765 9765 RR0001
Donate toDay!Gifts can be made online at www.reh-fit.com, by calling 204-488-8023, or in person at the Reh-Fit Centre.
As Canada’s first certified medical fitness facility, the Reh-Fit Centre
collaborates with physicians, government, and health organizations
to deliver the best possible experience for the thousands of people
in our community who turn to the Centre for support and guidance.
But so much more can be done.
what can you do to create a healthier community?Every day we hear the personal stories of how the Reh-Fit Centre is helping change thousands of lives through the power of physical activity, nutrition, education, and coaching.
“After being diagnosed with diabetes, I felt lousy. Now I’m off my medication and have way more energy.”
“The doctors told me that because I was more fit, I had a lot fewer side effects from my cancer treatment.”
“In one year I lost 140 pounds. I was a young man but had zero confidence in myself. Now I’m in the best shape of my life.”
H e l p i n g P e o p l e L e a d H e a l t h i e r L i v e s | 2 3
reh-fit centre board of directors 2013/14Albert Krahn
Chair
Ken Lee
Past-Chair
David Thompson
Vice-Chair
Pat Kloepfer
Treasurer
Scott Bailey
Secretary
Rossana Buonpensiere
Tim Burt
Gordon Greaves
Matthew Guberman
David Horne
Jo Magnifico
Dr. Bruce Roe
Charitable Registration Number 10765 9765 RR0001
reh-fit foundation board of directors 2013/14Mike Sampson
Chair
Audrey Vandewater
Vice-Chair
Catherine Kloepfer
Treasurer
David Horne
Secretary
Ken Lee
Past-Chair Centre Board
Albert Krahn
Chair Centre Board
Tim Burt
Centre Board Member
Janeen Balenovic
Barry Brown
Liz Findlay
Ron Pradinuk
Charitable Registration Number 87046 0540 RR0001
management team Sue Boreskie
Chief Executive Officer
Patrick Harrington
Director of Finance
Janet Cranston
Director of Support Services
Karyn Sinopoli
Membership Services Manager
Dana Ransom
Fitness Services Manager
Suzy Siemens
Chronic Disease Program Manager
medical advisory committee Dr. Amarjit Arneja
Dr. Grant Goldberg
Dr. David Hochman
Dr. Neal Lerner
Dr. Pravinsagar Mehta
Dr. Thang Nguyen
Dr. Florin T. Padeanu
Dr. Sepideh Pooyania
Dr. Mike Routledge
Dr. Stephen G. M. Wong
1390 Taylor Avenue
Winnipeg, Manitoba
R3M 3V8
Phone: 204.488.8023
www.reh-fit.com
visionTo be the best health and fitness centre in Canada in building the health
of the community, for optimum quality of life.
missionThe Reh-Fit Centre is a not-for-profit organization with a mission to enhance the health and well-being of its members and the community by providing
innovative health and fitness services through assessment, education, and exercise in a supportive environment.
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