The Health & Wellness Lab is committed to building a clinic-to-community model grounded in the evidence on the benefits of physical activity for cancer patients and survivors. The Lab has a multitude of programs based at the University of Calgary as well as hospitals and community centres across Calgary. Below is an overview of the Lab's main programs, which we are committed to supporting and expanding through our fundraising efforts and running this race.
The Thrive Centre offers a free fitness facility to cancer patients, survivors and their support people. Housed at the University of Calgary, the gym includes all of the equipment one would find at any gym: treadmills, bikes, weights, resistance and balance training gear. Exercise specialists and volunteers with specific cancer and exercise training monitor the gym and offer support to visitors. Additionally, volunteers ensure the space is routinely cleaned to ensure safety for visitors with compromised immune systems. Visit the Centre's website to learn more!
Last year more than 375 participants used the fitness facility. In addition to using the fitness facility, participants at the Centre learn about and enroll in our community PA programs such as group exercise and yoga classes.
Programs for Adults
Thrive Programs include individualized and specific exercise assessment and program design for cancer survivors. These programs can be tailored towards cardiovascular fitness, resistance training, and functional goals.
The Lab also facilitates a number of clinical programs for cancer patients and survivors, such as: BEAUTY, an exercise and wellness program for women undergoing treatment for breast cancer; Stretch & Strength, functional fitness classes with light aerobic and resistance exercises for prostate cancer patients, survivors and their supporters; and Yoga Thrive, a therapeutic yoga program taught by yoga teachers who receive cancer- specific training. These programs are offered in Calgary and, through outreach and training programs, being expanded across Canada. Read more about the Lab's programs here.
Programs for Kids & Youth
Programs for pediatric cancer patients and survivors are offered at the Alberta Children’s Hospital as well as local centres in Calgary. Some of the programs include: PEER, a fun program offered twice a week which aims to include pediatric physical activity levels and diminish physical deconditioning following cancer treatment. Athletes and Children Together Involved in Exercise (ACTIVE) Recovery, led by student volunteers at the University of Calgary, increases pediatric cancer survivors’ participation in team sports and outdoor activities. Yoga Thrive for Youth, which aims to raise physical fitness, cultivate greater self-esteem, and promote creativity and relaxation among pediatric patients and survivors.
All of these programs provide participants with a nurturing space for healing and a vibrant environment for building new friendships. Read more about the Lab's programs here.
The Health & Wellness Lab, University of Calgary
