The study’s senior author, Mark Haykowsky, a nursing professor at the University of Alberta, was inspired by the 70th anniversary of one of sports history’s most iconic events. On May 6, 1954, Roger Bannister, a 25-year-old English medical trainee, became the first person to run a mile in under four minutes, clocking in at 3:59.4. Bannister later enjoyed a successful career as a neurologist and lived a long life, passing away just 20 days shy of his 89th birthday in 2018. Haykowsky and his colleagues sought to explore the impact of running a sub-four-minute mile on longevity.

Concerns about the potential adverse effects of excessive exercise date back over 2,500 years to the first marathon. In 490 B.C., Pheidippides died suddenly after running from Marathon to Athens to announce the Greeks’ victory over the Persians. However, Haykowsky’s team, which includes experts in exercise physiology, sports cardiology, and population health, hypothesized that elite runners would actually outlive the general population. Their research confirmed this hypothesis.

The team examined the first 200 athletes to run a mile in under four minutes, comparing each runner’s date of birth, the date of their first successful mile attempt, current age if still alive, or age at death with their country of origin-specific life expectancy. The study encompassed runners of all ethnicities, nationalities, and socioeconomic statuses but did not include women, as no woman has yet broken the four-minute mile barrier.

The findings were remarkable: sub-four-minute milers lived an average of 4.74 years longer than their predicted life expectancy. “That is significant,” says Haykowsky, who has himself run both the Boston and New York marathons. “Now, that’s provided those are quality years, right?”

Although the study did not address the quality of life as athletes age, as the data were beyond its scope, it highlighted the exceptional physical and psychological qualities of these elite runners. “I personally think the athletes who are doing this, they are phenomenal. They’ve got great genetics, great training, big hearts and lungs, and very high-quality vasculature and skeletal muscles,” Haykowsky notes. He adds that mental toughness is crucial, as demonstrated by Bannister’s evident pain during his historic run.

Interestingly, the longevity advantage varied over the decades. Runners who achieved the sub-four-minute mile in the 1950s lived an average of 9.2 years longer than the general population, those in the 1960s saw an average increase of 5.5 years, and those in the 1970s had an average longer life of 2.9 years. Haykowsky speculates that these differences may be due to the shorter follow-up period for runners from the 1960s and 1970s, predicting similar numbers in 20 years.

While the study focused on men who trained from a young age, Haykowsky believes similar life-lengthening gains would be found among elite female runners at the top of their field.

Haykowsky also asserts that vigorous exercise, even when taken up later in life, is beneficial. “Someone who starts later in life is not going to run a sub-four,” he says. “But from a health perspective, getting people who were sedentary — which unfortunately in North America is almost everybody because we’ve engineered physical activity out of our lives — moderate to vigorous exercise will improve their overall survivorship.”

Haykowsky emphasizes that the threshold for what counts as “vigorous” is relatively low for those out of shape, but progressively more vigorous activity becomes easier and more beneficial. “My take is twofold. First, in the study we countered this notion that extreme exercise is detrimental,” says Haykowsky. “And from a health perspective, it’s yet another study that shows exercise is beneficial for longevity, that we are meant to sit less and move more.”

Mark Haykowsky is the director of the Integrated Cardiovascular Exercise Physiology and Rehabilitation (iCARE) Laboratory and is supported by an endowed research chair in Aging and Quality of Life from the University of Alberta’s Faculty of Nursing.

This article was republished with approval by the University of Alberta

Join us for a day of fitness inspiration and empowerment as we celebrate the strength, resilience, and passion of the world of health and wellness. Immerse yourself in a day filled with an invigorating workout, enlightening discussions, and uplifting presentations from inspirational professionals who are leading the way in fitness. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your fitness journey, this event promises to ignite your spirit and leave you feeling motivated to conquer your goals. Mark your calendars and join us for a day that celebrates the power of fitness – and then join us for our evening 2024 Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers AWARDS GALA!

IMPACT Magazine Top Trainers Fitness Conference has been approved for 5 CEC’s towards recertification by Fitness Alberta.

 MOTION ANALYSIS 

15-minute 3D Markerless, Clinical Movement Sessions with Yāna Motion Lab

TIMES AVAILABLE BETWEEN 9 AM – 4:30 PM

Click here to pre-book your time for this rare, complimentary opportunity for a 15-minute 3D Markerless, Clinical movement session with Yāna Motion Lab where they will have their entire lab on site!

Yana Motion Lab is at the forefront of revolutionizing motion analysis across sports, healthcare, rehabilitation, and occupational health sectors. This is done by utilizing new digital camera technologies, markerless motion capture, clinical-grade biomechanical processing, artificial intelligence (AI), cloud computing, and mobile application services. This advanced approach allows the capture and evaluation of human movement in its most natural form by setting a new standard in the field. Utilizing eight (8) 3D cameras, Yāna Motion Lab captures a 360-degree view of movement, providing a detailed three-dimensional analysis.

 FITNESS CLASS 

Kettlebell Master Class with Jodi Barrett

9:00 AM – 9:45 AM

Join Master Level Kettlebell Trainer, Jodi Barrett for a 45-minute Kettlebell Faults/Fixes Swing Workshop! Elevate your kettlebell game with this insightful session designed to enhance your skills, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. Jodi’s expertise will empower you to refine your technique, troubleshoot common mistakes, and unleash your full potential. Embrace this opportunity to refine your craft with a supportive community of fellow fitness enthusiasts. Let’s grow together and conquer new heights in kettlebell training!

*Please indicate when signing up if you will be bringing your own kettlebell or if you require one.

JODI BARRET
BA Physical Activity Studies, KBIA Master Level Trainer, MCK Certification

• IMPACT Magazine’s Canada’s Top Fitness Instructor 2021
• IMPACT Magazine 2022 Business Resilience AWARDS Winner: Corporate Fitness

After 11 years of being a stay-at-home mom, Jodi decided to change life lanes. Launching Kettlebell Kickboxing Canada in 2017! She then opened her flagship location and created an online hybrid model in the middle of a pandemic, launched 2 Successful Wellness Retreats in 2023, published her first memoir in 2023 and now owns and operates KBSTRONGER Training and Certification Program in 2024. Her passion is movement and her purpose is to guide and serve others. She is joining us from Regina, Saskatchewan.

Follow Jodi on Instagram: @kbstronger_.

 LECTURE 

The Fitness Curveball: Rethinking Our Role as Fitness Professionals with Tim Borys

10:00 AM – 10:45 AM

As fitness professionals, the top 2 reasons people come to see us are to “get fit” and “lose weight”. Yet people already know they need to exercise regularly and lose weight. They just don’t do these things.

So how will more fitness and nutrition information solve the problem? It won’t. There is a more effective solution, but it requires rethinking our role and approach.

This engaging, thought provoking and informative session will flip the script on traditional fitness advice and provide a simple, yet highly effective framework from which to dramatically improve the results that people get.

You will learn:

• The 4 Pillars of Performance
• The Other 165 Hour Rule
• The Movement Spectrum
• And much more!

Regardless of your role in our great industry, you will leave this session empowered and loaded with the tools to more easily transform the lives of the people you see every day. Who knows, you may even gain clarity on overcoming some of your own challenges…we all have them

TIM BORYS
BA Psychology and Kinesiology, Medical Exercise Specialist, CHEK HLC, CSCS

• CEO of FRESH! Group
• IMPACT Magazine’s Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer 2022

Tim believes that life and work should be awesome! With levels of stress, burnout, and pessimism at all-time highs, his mission is to ignite the potential of leaders, teams, and corporations to move from surviving to thriving.

As a former elite athlete, New York Yankees draft pick, and national level coach, Tim harnesses his sport and business background to elevate the lives and businesses of his clients.

Tim is the author of 5 books, an international speaker and CEO of FRESH! Group. When not in Calgary, AB, he can be found having fun in the nearby mountains with his family.

Follow Tim on Instagram: @timborys

 PANEL/GROUP DISCUSSION 

State of the Fitness Industry

11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Moderated by Pete Estabrooks & Elaine Kupser

We invite all industry professionals to join a panel discussion with fellow industry professionals to explore and share stories of the current state of the fitness industry. Also a special presentation from one of Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers, Geoff Starling on ‘Creating a Hyper-Inclusive Fitness Space’.

PETE ESTABROOKS
The Fitness Guy

• IMPACT Magazine’s Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer & Instructor 2018, 2019

Pete is one of Canada’s foremost experts on personal training and fitness. He is widely known for his energy, infectious enthusiasm and genuine love of help people incorporate fitness into their lives. Inspired by a lifetime of fitness and based off training programs he developed during his professional boxing career, Pete developed the revolutionary TKO Sports Conditioning Program taking clients’ fitness to the next level.

Follow Pete on Instagram: @fitguy1959

ELAINE KUPSER
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief IMPACT Magazine

Elaine Kupser stands as the formidable founder, publisher and editor-in-chief of IMPACT Magazine, now embarking on its remarkable 33rd year of publication. With over three decades of unwavering commitment to the publishing realm, IMPACT is one of the longest-standing, independent and woman-owned magazines in Canada. IMPACT Magazine has become synonymous with credible, respected and beloved content. Pioneering Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers & Instructors, an esteemed platform, has been Elaine’s personal and professional dedication to recognizing and uplifting the nation’s top talents in the fitness realm, catalyzing positive transformations in their professional journeys.

Follow IMPACT Magazine on Instagram: @impactmagcanada

GEOFF STARLING
CSCS FMS

• IMPACT Magazine’s Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer 2022
• IMPACT Magazine 2022 Business Resilience AWARDS Winner: Corporate Fitness

Throughout his career in fitness, Geoff has operated under every permutation of the industry.  He has run private studios with 100 members to a YMCA with over 7000. Working as a wellness director for a community not-for-profit group to a Fortune 500 oil and gas firm in the past, Geoff founded Every Body STRONGER in 2017 – a body-positive fitness operation committed to making fitness accessible for people living in bodies of all sizes, ages, abilities & identities.

For his own training, Geoff is a competitive Strongman and Powerlifter proudly sporting a 1000lbs+ total across squat, bench press and deadlift.

Follow Geoff on Instagram: @everybodystronger

Break

12 PM – 12:30 PM

Fueled by: Fit Kitchen and Little Vegan Treats

 LECTURE 

Self-Myofascial Release (To Roll or Not to Roll!) with Helen Vanderburg

12:30 PM – 1:15 PM

Self-myofascial release (SMR) techniques and products have become all the rage in the fitness industry. The science of fascia and fascial resiliency continues to evolve. In this workshop we will explore and discuss the current science and relevance of a variety of SMR techniques and learn how directed SMR techniques are changing. Learn specific exercise strategies and techniques to bring back to your clients to optimized physical potential.

HELEN VANDERBURG
Bkin, ACE, CanFitPro, Yoga Alliance

• Co-Owner of The ACADEMY fitness, yoga, spin studio & Heavens Fitness Ltd.

Helen is an international health and fitness consultant, respected motivational speaker, and author of Fusion Workouts. Helen has been recognized with numerous industry awards including IDEA Fitness Instructor of the Year, IDEA Program Director of the Year, IDEA Top Industry Contributor, CanFitPro Presenter of the Year, Government of Canada Fitness Leadership, Women of Vision, and the CanFitPro Lifetime Achievement Award. Helen brings a wealth of experience to her presentations, workshop, and classes as a business owner, mentor, trainer, writer, author, video producer, and elite athlete as a past World Champion synchronized swimmer and honored member of the Sports Hall of Fame. Helen is an internationally acclaimed fitness educator, consultant, master trainer and educational program developer for Balanced Body, Schwinn Indoor Cycling, BOSU, Total Gym, Fusion Fitness, and Hedstrom Fitness in Calgary, AB.

Follow Helen on Instagram: @vanderburghelen

 LECTURE 

Edu-tainment with Jessica Power-Cyr

1:30 PM – 2:15 PM

Educational Entertainment – A media to educate through entertainment by blending education and entertainment at the same time. Find your edu-tainment balance in this fun and uplifting session with this dynamic presenter. Review verbal and non-verbal communication, discuss coaching versus teaching and how to systematically cue with tips to engage the left and right side of the brain all while keeping your classes fun! Does your environment, music, equipment and even attire all work with the experience you are trying to achieve? How to ensure your clients are walking away with new knowledge and a smile on their face.

JESSICA POWER-CYR
B. Sc.in, M.Sc., CSEP-CPT I/E, CSEP-CEP, ASCM-CES

• Faculty Instructor at MRU and Lifestyle Director at the Glencoe Club in Calgary, AB

Jessica has a diverse work experience in the field of wellness and fitness and has been in the fitness industry for 15 years working in a variety of capacities such as Exercise Physiologist, Program Manager, Personal Trainer and International Fitness Presenter. She loves to educate and inspire people to be their best. She has been teaching in the Personal Fitness Trainer diploma program since 2012 at Mount Royal University, and is an instructor of: Fitness Program Design; Exercise Physiology; Fitness Appraisal & Lifestyle Counselling in Calgary, AB.

Follow Jessica on Instagram: @jessicapowercyr

Women’s Health Segment

 LECTURE (A) 

Women’s Health: Thriving With Hormonal Imbalances: Strategies For Optimal Health with Kat Ostroumova

2:30 PM – 3:00 PM

Hormonal imbalances such as PCOS and Hypothyroidism affect 4 million women in Canada alone. Neglecting such conditions leaves women feeling alone, frustrated, and isolated. Through a holistic strategy and approach, these debilitating conditions can be managed if not defeated. Allowing women to reclaim control of their lives, thus feeling empowered.

KAT OSTROUMOVA

• Founder and CEO of Kat International Fitness
• Women’s Wellness & Hormone Health Coach
• IMPACT Magazine’s Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer 2024

Kat Ostroumova is an award-winning women’s wellness coach and hormonal imbalance specialist. Having suffered from hypothyroidism for over 10 years and weighing183lbs at her heaviest, Kat decided to take control of her life by prioritizing her health and wellbeing. After losing over 40lbs, Kat went on to compete at the WBFF (World’s Beauty Fitness Fashion) show, where she earned multiple top three finishes in multiple categories. She has successfully taken back control of her life from hypothyroidism and has now dedicated her life to helping other women suffering from hormonal imbalances such as hypothyroidism, PCOS and many others.

Currently, Kat is the founder and CEO of Kat International Fitness – a successful online coaching business –that helps thousands of women worldwide feel empowered, gain confidence, and meet their health and fitness goals through custom programs done on the Kat Intl Fitness APP, mindset coaching, and a line of pro-grade resistance bands.

Kat is the recipient of the 2024 Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer Award and was the recipient of the 2023 Waterfront Magazine People’s Choice Award in the Health and Fitness category. She’s also been named Canada’s Top Hot and Fit 100 by Inside Fitness magazine, has been featured in Fit and Firm Magazine and numerous publications, podcasts, TV and radio interviews. Kat is also a sponsored athlete for Goli Nutrition, Rival Nutrition in Canada and the United States, and 6 Pack Fitness Bags in Canada and the United States.

Follow Kat on Instagram: @katostroumova

 PANEL DISCUSSION (B) 

Women’s Wellness & Fitness (Top Trainers including Kat Ostroumova, Jessica Power-Cyr, Helen Vanderburg, Jodi Barrett, Rebecca Garland, Paul Anthony + more)

3:00 PM

MODERATOR: TISH DUFFY

TISH DUFFY
BScKin

• IMPACT Magazine’s Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer/Instructor 2019 & 2022
• Owner of Train with Tish Inc.

With 30 years of personal training experience, Tish is an educator and trainer for women who want to gain strength, feel happy, and live their best life after 40.

Follow Tish on Instagram: @trainwithtish_

2024 Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers AWARDS GALA

5 PM MST Social / Industry Mix & Mingle

6:30 PM MST Live SHOW begins

*** This is a ticketed event. Please visit this page for more information.

BONUS EVENT: Friday, April 26, 2024

 PRIVATE BREAKFAST 

Meet Matthew Devine – Up Close & Personal

8:00 AM on Friday, April 26

Private Breakfast – Hotel Arts for Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers, Instructors & Friends
$17 + tax and gratuity

Emailed elaine@impactmagazine.ca to register by Monday, April 22, 2024

After completing a gruelling cross-Canada cycling journey in 2023 for charity, Matthew will be embarking on a new adventure in May 2024: Heroes Unleased – Cross Canada Challenge – in support of Little Warriors, a revered national charitable organization at the forefront of combatting child sexual abuse in Canada.

He will be travelling across the country “in a movement to inspire and activate transformation through physical activity, community and finding purpose – inviting Canadians to unleash their inner heroes.” Along Matt’s 13-week route, he will be hosting 13 Fitness-Inspired Inclusive Events in 13 major cities with some of Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers.

*Attendees can also find Matthew at the 2024 Conference and GALA.
Follow Matthew on Instagram at: @heroesunleashed_ca

Frank Tuot leads Team Argo on Vancouver Island in an attempt to link up two tunnels to make one, and Katie Graham—an accountant by day, and an obsessed caver any other time—dives fearlessly into deep waterous caverns for Team Baso in Fernie.

The filming is exceptional, and you do get a sense of being in the caves with the teams as they experience highs and lows. Discovering the ‘wedding cake’ was a high for the Argo team and the moment Katie fell day three into their journey was a definite ‘oh my God’ moment. (You will have to watch to see what happens next!)

You can call the cavers brave, gritty or just plain nuts but amateur cavers, and anyone who enjoys exploration and has a sense of adventure will enjoy the movie.

Subterranean screened at the Banff Mountain Film Festival on November 4 and had a broadcast premiere on Knowledge Network on November 7. Stream for free online on www.knowledge.ca/subterranean across Canada. 

More information: www.knowledge.ca/subterranean or  https://www.subterraneanfilm.com/

Read This Story in Our 2023 Fall Fitness & Food Issue
Featuring this year’s winners of the Amazing Race Canada, Ty Smith and Kat Kastner on our cover. Inside our latest issue, you’ll find all the inspiration you need to carry you through the autumn season. From delicious high-protein recipes and how to resist the crunch of potato chips to running through the high peaks of the Colorado Rockies and the latest in nutrition and fitness, these pages are packed with expert knowledge and advice.

How are the winners chosen?
All nominees will be notified the first week of November, and will be scored based on specific criteria. For example, having fitness certifications and education will garner points.

Do you give points for trainers who get the most nominations?
No. Trainers only need one nomination to be considered for the contest. Trainers who have multiple nominations will still only be scored once.

Who chooses the winners?
IMPACT will score and rank the nominees using a blind-scoring process which identifies the nominees by number only. The top 10 trainers with the most points are declared the winners.

Can previous winners be nominated again?
Yes, as long as they haven’t been featured two years in a row.

When will the winners be announced?
The winners will be announced publicly when IMPACT Magazine’s Jan/Feb 2024 issue is published.

How are the winners recognized?
Each of the winners will be featured in the Jan/Feb 2024 issue of IMPACT Magazine. In addition, they will be honoured at an awards ceremony in 2024.

When will winners be notified?
Winners will be notified in mid December 2023.

Nominations are now closed

Note: By submitting this nomination form, your email will be automatically added to IMPACT Magazine’s e-newsletter subscription list. You may unsubscribe at any time.

All nominees will be scored on subjects such as education, certifications, years in the business, philanthropy and community service. Additional topics which include success stories and personal fitness philosophies will be ‘blind-scored’ by our skilled expert panelists who will spend hours reading some pretty inspiring stories.

PREVIOUS CANADA’S TOP FITNESS TRAINERS & INSTRUCTORS

And in the spirit of the holidays, we’ve compiled your to-do list this Christmas season from coast to coast. 

VANCOUVER 

For our west coast friends, Christmas isn’t always represented with snowy laneways and frosty noses, but that doesn’t mean Vancouver doesn’t go all out to bring the holiday spirit alive. That’s why the first thing on your to-do list this season is to stop by the Capilano Bridge.  

The bridge and surrounding canyon come alive with the magic of the holidays with close to 500,000 lights and holiday decorations.  

From November 19 – January 22, cross the world-famous suspension bridge lined end-to-end with twinkling lights and take in the illuminated valley below.  

Then celebrate the holidays in the most quintessential way possible by visiting the German-themed outdoor Vancouver Christmas Market. Find unique holiday gifts, enjoy the lights and entertainment, and indulge in delicious food, authentic  German drinks, and top off your time with a sweet treat to satisfy your sweet tooth.  

The market is open from now until Christmas Eve.  

CALGARY 

For many in the Calgary area, ZOOLIGHTS has become a holiday tradition. For the 26th year, the magical experience is back at the Calgary Zoo. Visit the North Pole, enjoy the many light displays and immersive experiences, including the enchanting Garden of Light, warm your hands by the fire and connect with the animals that love the cold.  

On now until January 8, ZOOLIGHTS is the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.  

Who doesn’t love a good farmer’s market? Well, the Calgary Farmer’s Market has gotten even better (if that’s  possible to believe!) and transformed into the Calgary Christmas Market, where you can find something unique and fun for everyone on your list. Enjoy food,  festivities, treats, and thoughtfully crafted  goods. You can even visit Santa’s reindeer, say hello to Santa, and snap a pic with the Grinch.  

On now until December 23.  

TORONTO  

Grab your skates, Torontonians, and hit the ice at Nathan Philips Square. Although the rink is open from the end of November through until March, there’s something special about skating here at Christmas, surrounded by the twinkling lights and holiday tunes. When you’re done, grab a hot chocolate and enjoy the holiday decor around the city.

And for a Toronto Christmas favourite that can’t be missed, visit the Distillery Winter Village, formally the Toronto Christmas Markets. With traditional festivities including live entertainment, Santa and his elves, and of course, gorgeous light displays, this is the perfect  place to satisfy your need for holiday cheer. Treat yourself to holiday sweets, peruse for the perfect holiday gifts and explore the different vendors below the sparkling lights.  

Open now until December 31.  

You may also like: Six Amazing Rustic Winter Retreats

Read This Story in Our 2022 Holiday Gift Guide

The best gift-giving ideas this holiday season, stories, and great holiday recipes!

How are the winners chosen?
All nominees will be scored based on specific criteria. For example, having fitness certifications and education will garner points. Scores are based on expertise, community service, positive impact on clients and education, not on how many nominations he/she receives.

Do you give points for instructors who get the most nominations?
No. Instructors only need one nomination to be considered for the contest. Instructors who have multiple nominations will still only be scored once.

Who chooses the winners?
IMPACT will score and rank the nominees using a blind-scoring process which identifies the nominees by number only. The top 10 trainers with the most points are declared the winners.

Can previous winners be nominated again?
Yes, as long as they haven’t been featured two years in a row.

When will the winners be announced?
The winners will be announced publicly when IMPACT Magazine’s Jan/Feb 2023 issue is published.

How are the winners recognized?
Each of the winners will be featured in the Jan/Feb 2023 issue of IMPACT Magazine. In addition, they will be honoured at an awards ceremony in 2023.

When will winners be notified?
Winners will be notified in early December 2022.

Nominations Close November 1, 2022

Note: By submitting this nomination form, your email will be automatically added to IMPACT Magazine’s e-newsletter subscription list. You may unsubscribe at any time.

PREVIOUS CANADA’S TOP FITNESS TRAINERS & INSTRUCTORS

We are pleased to honour those in our industry who have embodied the definition of strength and resilience during the past few years with a special award.

2022 Business Resilience Awards – Winners

THANK YOU TO OUR RESILIENCE AWARDS PANELISTS
Melanie Fuller, Director of Wellness at Alberta Blue Cross
Mairead Graham – Head of Internal Communications at DECIEM
Katherine MacKeigan – Managing and Executive Director of Fitness Alberta
Christa Stemerdink – Canadian Business Development lead at SOLIUS
Joe Welton – Member of the Biostrap Business Development Team

SEE ALL 2022 WINNERS

Individual – Community IMPACT

Steve Carter, Drive 365 Owner South Surrey, BC

Maeghen Cotterill, 5 Elements Owner Calgary, AB

Yana Hempler, Yana Hempler Fitness Owner Victoria, BC

Rishona Hyman, Aqua Essence Swim Head Fish Winnipeg, MB

Melissa Schaffer, MissC Fitness Owner Calgary, AB

Nathan Skoufis, Guelph Family Martial Arts Owner Guelph, ON

Individual – Leadership

David Balfour, Clayton Heights Sports & Therapy Owner, Director Surrey, BC

Heather Gardner, Kardia Owner, Instructor Toronto, ON

Shaif Jetha, Achieve Personal Training Owner, Trainer Edmonton, AB

Karen Kobel, Kahlena Movement Studio Owner, Teacher North Vancouver, BC

Scott Salling, F.I.T. Academy Owner, Trainer Port Coquitlam, BC

Danelle Tucker, Training Foundation & Calgary Regional Dance Coach Okotoks, AB

Corporate – Start-Up

Bäre Activewear Athletic Apparel Calgary, AB

Hive Muskoka Inc. Fitness Centre Bracebridge, ON

Plantsie Plants for Health  Calgary, AB

Corporate – Fitness

Every Body Stronger Fitness Studio Calgary, AB

F45 Training Calgary Downtown Fitness Studio Calgary, AB

Fit in 30 Integrated Fitness Fitness Studio Vancouver, BC

Function Health Club Fitness Club Vancouver, BC

Hot Booty Ballet Dance Studio Montreal, QC

Innovative Fitness Franchise Corp. Fitness Clubs Vancouver, BC

Kettlebell Kickboxing Canada Online Fitness Regina, SK

Lebert Fitness Fitness Products Toronto, ON

McDonald Wilson Dance Academy Dance Studio Calgary, AB

Micaela Fitness Online Fitness Edmonton, AB

ONYX FIT Fitness Club Milton, ON

Personal Peak Endurance Coaching Ltd. Coaching Calgary, AB

Sweat and Tonic  Fitness Studio Toronto, ON

Synapse Health & Fitness Health Club Calgary, AB

Urban Athlete Fitness Club Calgary, AB

Corporate – Technology

RunGo Running Technology Vancouver, BC

Corporate – Race/Event

Dirty Feet Trail Race Trail Kamloops, BC

Platinum Racing Multi-Sport Calgary, AB

Run Calgary Road Calgary, AB

Sinister Sports Multi-Terrain Bellevue, AB

Corporate – Nutrition

AOR Supplements Calgary, AB

Pachavega Education Qualicum Beach, BC

Seven Summits Snacks Inc. Sports Nutrition Edmonton, AB

Corporate – Food

Blender Bites Organic Smoothie Product Vancouver, BC

Nupo Restaurant Calgary, AB

Corporate – Health

Natural Calm Nutrition Thornhill, ON

Revival Athletic Therapy Airdrie, AB

Tall Tree Healthcare Victoria, BC

Corporate – Medical

Innovative Sport Medicine Sports Medicine Calgary, AB

Kodak Lens Healthcare Toronto, ON

Individual – Lifetime Achievement

Gord Hobbins, Gord’s Running Store Calgary, AB

Susan Simpson, S2 Fitness Studio Calgary, AB

Louis Stack, Fitterfirst Calgary, AB

Corporate – Lifetime Achievement

Canfitpro Education Scarborough, ON

Fitterfirst Fitness Products Calgary, AB

Watch the 2022 Virtual Awards Gala on YouTube.

Every year IMPACT Magazine inaugurates a new class of Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers and Canada’s Top Fitness Instructors into the magazine with a special edition, and a celebratory awards ceremony.

We celebrated together this great event from coast-to-coast virtually!

Watch the 2022 Virtual Awards Gala on YouTube.

Top Trainers Class of 2022

Canada’s Top Fitness Trainers Co-Hosts

Andrew Alcalde, Vancouver, BC
Canada’s Top Fitness Instructor, 2021

Maeghen Cotterill, Calgary, AB
Canada’s Top Fitness Instructor, 2019/Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer, 2020

Andy Drakopoulos, Toronto, ON
Canada’s Top Fitness Instructor, 2019/Canada’s Top Fitness Trainer, 2020

For the fitness enthusiasts, join ultrarunning legend Scott Jurek for the Ultrafun Run, an almost eight kilometre run around Stanley Park on June 3rd. Documentary enthusiasts can attend the Canadian premiere of Eating Our Way to Extinction on June 4th. In attendance to discuss the film will be Jennifer Stojkovic, who is part of the film production team. Plant-based foodies can choose from one of two VIP dinner seatings on June 5th for a special culinary experience with Chef Chanthy Yen from Nightshade. The second seating includes a live podcast recording of A Little More Good with hosts Dean Morris and Zach Berman who are joined by Seaspiracy creator Ali Tabrizi.

“The three immersive events we have added to our event schedule are an incredible way for plant-based enthusiasts to garner a richer understanding of how our food choices impact the world around us,” said Stevan Mirkovich, Planted Life Chief Relational Officer. “The industry leaders we have hosting these special events are passionate about plant-based living. It’s a privilege for our Vancouver team to be able to premiere the film Eating Our Way to Extinction. The weekend of June 3 to 5 gives those curious about plant-based living many opportunities to dive deeper into this topic through fitness, film, or culinary experience.”

Ultrafun run with Scott Jurek
June 3, Starts: 6:00 PM Ends: 8:00 PM
Jack Poole Plaza (Olympic Cauldron), 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver

Meet and run with ultrarunning legend, Scott Jurek, through Coal Harbour and Stanley Park. This eight-kilometre run will start and end at the Jack Poole Plaza, next to the Olympic Cauldron. Run admission is $25 and includes The Juice Truck juice at the end. $35 admission includes run admission, a Juice Truck drink, a Brook’s tech shirt and a copy of Scott Jurek’s book North.

Canadian Premiere of Eating Our Way to Extinction
June 4, starts: 6:30 PM Ends: 8:30 PM
Vancouver Convention Centre West Building, 1055 Canada Pl, Vancouver

The Planted Expo is pleased to host the Canadian Premiere of Eating Our Way to Extinction as part of the Planted Expo weekend. Join distinguished members of the film’s production team Jenny Stojkovic and Dr. Gemma Newman for a discussion and Q&A after the film. Eating Our Way to Extinction takes audiences on a cinematic journey around the world. From the depths of the Amazon rainforests to the Taiwanese Mountains, the Mongolian desert, the US Dust Bowl, the Norwegian Fjords, and the Scottish coastlines, telling the story of our planet through shocking testimonials, poignant accounts from indigenous people most affected by our ever-changing planet, globally renowned figures, and leading scientists. This powerful documentary sends a simple but impactful message by uncovering hard truths and addressing, on the big screen, the most pressing issue of our generation – ecological collapse. Tickets for this event are $20.

VIP Dinner with Chef Chanthy Yen featuring a live podcast recording (during the second seating) with Seaspiracy creator Ali Tabrizi

June 5, first seating 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., second seating 7:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Nightshade restaurant, located at 1079 Mainland St., Vancouver.

Planted Expo hosts a very special dinner with Chef Chanthy Yen at Vancouver’s newest vegan fine-dining establishment, Nightshade. The event will feature the creative culinary delights of Chef Chanthy Yen – founding chef at Nightshade and currently Canada’s Chef to the Prime Minister’s family. The custom menu will showcase local ingredients including dishes prepared with products from local vegan company Save Da Sea. Nightshade, known for producing plates and palleted flavours inspired from all around the world, strives to utilize its local resources to create a variety of house-made products with thoughtful and creative techniques. Guests to the second seating will experience an intimate conversation with Ali Tabrizi from Seaspiracy, the hit Netflix documentary chronicling the current state of our world’s oceans and conversationalists Dean Morris and Zach Berman, hosts of the podcast A Little More Good, The first seating is $100 and the second seating is $125.

Visit the full speaker schedule for the Planted Expo and see the list of vendors attending the two-day event. Planted Expo Vancouver runs Saturday, June 4 and Sunday, June 5 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Vancouver Convention Centre West, 1055 Canada Place. Tickets for Planted Expo are available via Showpass, prices are $20 for adults and $15 for seniors. Add a second day for only $5. Admission is free for children.

Planted Expo is sponsored by BUCK, Big Mountain Foods, SNÖ Dairy Free, Herbaland, The Very Good Butchers, OPUS, Plant Veda, TMRW Foods, Wild Tea Kombucha, Just Egg, Kove Ocean Foods, and Wildling.

ABOUT PLANTEDLIFE.COM
Planted Life holds deeply held values around health, well-being, and compassion, aiming to make a difference and further the plant-based movement. As Canada’s largest plant-based event, Planted Expo is a place to come together, celebrate, and explore plant-based living. Wherever you are on your plant-based journey, whether you want to live a healthier lifestyle, are passionate about animal welfare, or want to reduce your environmental impact, there is something for you. Planted is growing and expanding. Hosting the upcoming 8th Expo in Vancouver, June 4 & 5, 2022. The first Planted Expo in Toronto will be on April 29 & 30, 2023 In addition, Planted Learn is a growing hub of information and resources to help guide you in your plant-based journey.

To arrange media interviews or for more information, please contact:
Cynnamon Schreinert
604-802-2733
cynnamon@hartleypr.com

On Feb.21, 2022, local filmmakers, Kate McKenzie & Martin Parnell will release their documentary film, The Secret Marathon to stream publicly for the first time on Vimeo. The award-winning documentary film tells the story of the first women in Afghanistan to run a marathon.

“We were heartbroken to hear the news that the Taliban had taken over Afghanistan. Months later, many of our friends and contacts are still not safe and are facing threats due to promoting gender equality,” states Kate McKenzie, Film Co-Director.

“Seeing the influx of new Afghan refugees to Canada, we felt now was the time to share with the world a different perspective about Afghanistan through our film. Oftentimes, the only things we hear about Afghanistan are stories of war, poverty and terrorism yet it is a beautiful country with resilient and hospitable people,” states McKenzie.

“Our hope is that by sharing our story, Canadians and those around the world will be more willing to greet Afghan refugees with open arms and see them as wonderful additions to our communities,” states Martin Parnell, Executive Producer.

McKenzie shares, “While filming this documentary in Afghanistan, I was inspired by such brave women and girls who fought for equality and at times, risked their lives for the freedom to run outdoors.” McKenzie hopes that the film will inspire others to stand in solidarity with Afghans and continue to speak up about the need for gender equality.

The Secret Marathon film was created in collaboration with Afghan cultural advisors and all Afghans featured in the film have communicated their support for sharing the film more widely.

HIGHLIGHTS

• The Secret Marathon film has raised over $100,000 for charities including Canadian Women for
• Women in Afghanistan, the Afghan Sports Trust and 261 Fearless all of whom create opportunities for women in education and sport.
• The film inspired the Secret 3K a run/walk event hosted during the week of International Women’s
• Day now in it’s 5th year with thousands of participants joining from 24 countries around the world.
• Award winning film including:
  • Winner of People’s Choice Award, Best Documentary Feature at Edmonton International Film Festival, People’s Choice Award at Zonta Film Festival, Audience Choice Best Documentary Runner-Up at Cinefest Film Festival
  • Record breaking attendance at Calgary Underground Film Festival
  • Sold-out theaters at Cinefest, EIFF, Zonta, CUFF Docs, Red Deer Justice Film Festival, Kingston Canadian Film Festival

QUICK FACTS

• Website
• Film Trailer
• Feature Length Film
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• Twitter