Research at Reh-FitĀ
We believe research is fundamental to building community health. Research at the Reh-Fit also informs evidence-based results of our exercise programs. Findings can also lead to broader advances to what we know about disease prevention and rehabilitation.
There are 5 primary goals of research at the Reh-Fit Centre:
- Evaluate existing programs and the prospective outcomes of new programs
- Preparation and scientific examination of data on Reh-Fit Centre members
- Establish effective liaisons with appropriate university faculties
- Enhance the Centre’s credibility in lifestyle and heart disease management within medical and government communities
- Advance the scientific knowledge base on prevention and rehabilitation
Research Publications
Research Setting
Reh-Fit provides a unique research setting because it is:
- Community-based;
- Provides access to participants and programming for a wide range of health and fitness levels, and
- The Centre has the facility, programs, and staff to collaborate on and conduct research studies related to many areas of health and fitness.
Proposals are accepted for review from a variety of sources, including:
- Faculties of recognized universities
- Hospitals
- Multi-centered organizations
Applications are reviewed to ensure that the studies are consistent with the Centre’s mission and vision. Applications are also evaluated for ethics approval, PHIA compliance, adequate funding, and equipment and staff requirements.
Current Research Opportunities
For information about current research opportunities, please contact Darlene Lamont, Research Analyst at the Reh-Fit Centre, at 204-488-5859 or [email protected].
Industry Partnerships and Affiliations
- Exercise is Medicine Canada: Calling on physicians to assess and review every patient’s physical activity program at every visit.
- Heart Academy: International Academy of Cardiovascular Sciences.
- IHRSA: The ‘International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association’ is the trade association serving the health and fitness club industry. IHRSA’s mission is to grow, protect and promote the health and fitness industry, and to provide its members with benefits that will help them be more successful.
- Medical Fitness Association: Provides industry standards, educational programs, benchmarks, outcome measurements, professional development and networking opportunities for the medical fitness industry.
- The Cardiac Sciences Program: The Cardiac Sciences Program was established in 2004 at the St. Boniface Hospital. The program integrates cardiac surgery, cardiology, cardiac anesthesia, cardiac intensive care and cardiac rehabilitation resources under one umbrella to improve the coordination and delivery of cardiac services to the people of Manitoba.
Awards & Certifications
2023 – Platinum Medal Member Experience Award. Presented for outstanding member-focused service, based on high member satisfaction and feedback scores. Presented by Fitronics, a leading provider of member feedback solutions for the fitness industry.
2020 – Medical Fitness Association Certified Facility of the Year. “The Reh-Fit contributes significantly and consistently to the advancement of the medical fitness industry through its programs, services, and dedication to the well-being of its clients. It exemplifies a standard others should strive for.” – Bob Boone, CEO and President of the international MFA.
2018 – Manitoba Runners’ Association Hall of Fame. Presented for The Heart Throbs Running Club.
2013 – Imagine Canada Standards. Certifying that the Centre has demonstrated excellence in five key areas: financial accountability & transparency, fundraising, staff management, board governance, and volunteer involvement.
2013 – Recreation Connections Manitoba Award of Merit. Recognizing the innovative programming, community participation, and service excellence in a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance the quality of life of Manitobans.
2012 – Medical Fitness Association Facility of the Year. Presented annually by the Medical Fitness Association (MFA) to a medical fitness facility that clearly serves as a benchmark for the industry, and whose results others can emulate. “The Reh-Fit contributes significantly and consistently to the advancement of the medical fitness industry through its more than 300 programs and services.” - Michael Richmond, Chairman of the MFA
2012 – Certified Medical Fitness Facility. Recognizing the Reh-Fit Centre as Canada’s first and only certified medical fitness facility. Certification is a seal of approval that a facility has met the highest standards of quality and service and offers a safe and effective health and wellness experience.
2012 – Heart & Stroke Award. The ‘Big Heart Award’ recognizes people who have made the attempt to save lives and who took the time to be trained in CPR.
Canadian Safety Standards Certification. Verifying the Reh-Fit Centre meets the Canadian Fitness Safety Standards.
2011 – Regional Winner of the Speaking of Food and Healthy Living Award. Recognizing Reh-Fit’s Healthier Weight program, presented by Dietitians of Canada and Kraft Canada.
2011 – BOMA BEST Certification. Recognizing Reh-Fit’s efforts to go green by applying measures that save money and the environment while adding facility comfort.
2007 – Manitoba Council of Aging Certificate of Recognition. Presented for Reh-Fit’s outstanding contributions toward seniors.
2006 – Smart Award for Health and Wellness. Received for Reh-Fit’s $12-million expansion and renovation, which gave the City a state-of-the-art facility and enhanced the Reh-Fit’s ability to deliver on its commitment to support the well-being of the citizens of Manitoba.
2006 – City of Winnipeg Accessibility Award. Presented by The Access Advisory Committee of the City of Winnipeg to the Reh-Fit Centre in recognition of the effort and detail that went into the renovation and expansion of our facility, making it accessible and inclusive.


