Fitness, nutrition and fun for the whole family

PENTICTON – Families can learn fun ways to get fit and healthy for free thanks to Mind, Exercise, Nutrition, Do it! (MEND) program coming to the Penticton Community Centre.

MEND is a 10-week, family-based education program designed to help children 7-13 years old and their families get fitter, healthier and happier together. The program facilitates safe, effective and long-lasting changes by improving children’s physical activity levels, nutrition and self-esteem.

Recreation Penticton will be facilitating this free program through a partnership with British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association, with funding support from the BC Ministry of Health.

During the program, families learn all aspects of nutrition including how to make healthier food choices, how to read food labels, understand fats and sugars, the difference between unrefined and refined foods, and how to prepare a healthy balanced meal. Above all, families learn ways to have fun together through the introduction of many active games that can be played long after the program ends.

MEND has been running with success in several communities in British Columbia since 2013. Participants of the program have reduced their heart beat by 4.8 beats per minute following the three minute step test, decreased screen time an average of 1.2 hours per week, and increased physical activity by 2.2 hours per week. Past participants have also reported the program improved their self-esteem and confidence.

In Penticton, MEND is starting on Jan. 19, 2016. At the end of the 10-week program families will receive a free program graduation incentive such as a family recreation pass. To find out if MEND is right for your family, call the Penticton Recreation Centre at 250-490-2426 or email mend@penticton.ca.