Brent Mutis, CapU Sport Information & Compliance Officer
Capilano University, CapU Rec and the University’s Bachelor of Kinesiology program are combining forces to offer hands-on experience promoting active living through Move More North Shore (MMNS).
Last year, the pilot program saw 12 participants matched with CapU kinesiology students who took on roles as Student Active Health Coaches and developed physical activity programs for the individuals, checking in regularly to track progress and offer support.
Participants reported increases in days of physical activity and increased confidence in maintaining an active lifestyle by following their activity programs.
“During our year of online learning, it was particularly impactful to see the difference that one-on-one support and accountability was able to make for program participants,” said CapU Active Health Programmer Ali Funk. “For me, the program demonstrated once again the difference physical activity and social connection can make in our mental and physical health."
(MMNS will be accepting applications for Student Active Health Coaches through to July 9. The posting can be found here.)
Participants came to MMNS from a variety of on-campus groups including counselling and medical services. Employees were able to self-refer to the program. In evaluating their experience, participants frequently reflected the coaching relationship motivated them and helped keep them accountable to their physical activity goals.
MMNS delivered in key outcome areas including increased physical activity and confidence. Student Active Health Coaches also gained valuable hands-on experience that will help them in their future careers.
For 2021-22, it is hoped MMNS can increase the number of participants and thereby increase the number of kinesiology students benefitting from this hands-on learning. The team is hoping that by January of 2022, they will be able to accept referrals from the North Shore community as well.
