About Osteofit
Osteofit is an exercise intervention program developed in consultation with clinical specialist from BC Women's Osteoporosis Program. Osteofit is designed to improve strength, balance and coordination as well as functional ability, independence, and quality of life, and is especially safe for those with osteoporosis and osteopenia*. It is medically endorsed and based on published research. Osteofit addresses the need for an accessible community program providing the link between physiotherapy and group fitness classes for those who are at risk for falls and fractures. Participants do not need a referral and are encouraged to contact community centres directly.
This unique falls prevention program of education, lifestyle management and exercise has 2 levels of participation- an introduction to exercise: Osteofit Level 1 and Osteofit for Life (level 2), an ongoing program.
Osteofit Level 1 is offered twice per week for a minimum of 6 weeks. This registered program of one-hour classes, include an educational component with topics on fracture prevention and healthy living. These Osteofit Tips are not designed to replace consultation with a health professional.
The classes focus on improving strength, posture, balance and agility, through the use of functional exercises, agility activities, resistance training, and appropriate stretches.
Osteofit for Life (level 2) is also offered twice weekly, it is more challenging and participants should be familiar with exercise technique.
*Osteopenia refers to bone mineral density (BMD) that is lower than normal peak BMD but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. Bone mineral density is a measurement of the level of minerals in the bones, which indicates how dense and strong they are. If your BMD is low compared to normal peak BMD, you are said to have osteopenia. Visit BCHealthGuide.org for more information.
