About the Program

Overview

Small Steps for Big Changes is an evidence-based lifestyle program designed to help you make lasting lifestyle changes to lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Your patients will learn how to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine, and to make sustainable dietary changes.

How does the program work?

The free program is offered monthly at participating locations.

Step One: Program Intake 

Step Two: Patient Training Phase

  • Patient receives a FREE 1-month YMCA gym membership
  • Patient receives SIX sessions of 1-on-1 exercise and dietary change counselling with a trained coach over three weeks
  • Patient completes two to four exercise sessions on their own each week
  • Diet and exercise is tracked with a health app and fitness watch

Post-Program 

  • Coach check-in one month after completing the program
  • Follow-up meetings after six and twelve months

Does this program work?

Yes! The program has been examined in our laboratory at the University of British Columbia (Diabetes Prevention Research Group) with over 140 people at risk for type 2 diabetes.

  • We found that adults who are not exercising regularly and who are at risk for type 2 diabetes enjoyed the exercise training.
  • When we followed up, we also found that majority of individuals continued to be physically active months after the program ended.
  • Those who participated in the program also improved their fitness levels, showed evidence of reduced inflammation, decreased their waist circumference and experienced weight loss.

 Who can participate in Small Steps for Big Changes?

Patients may be able to participate in this study if they are:

  1. Between the ages of 18 and 70
  2. At risk for type 2 diabetes
  3. Able to read and comprehend English
  4. Have a Body Mass Index (BMI) between 25 and 45 kg/m2.

Have questions about eligibility? Please Contact Us