‘Run to Quit’ aims to help smokers

A unique partnership between the Canadian Cancer Society and Running Room takes aim at Canada’s two million smokers. “Run to Quit,” a new program launched on Wednesday, is a series of clinics that will help smokers butt out by encouraging them to run.

Studies show that exercise can reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms.  “I’m confident that Run to Quit will increase a participant’s odds of success,” said John Atkinson of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Ontario branch. “Unlike other methods, Run to Quit combines physical activity, education and personalized support.”

Atkinson said he tried to quit smoking eight times before finally kicking the habit.

The Run to Quit program encourages participants to sign up with a “quit buddy” to help them stay motivated and committed. Clinics geared at beginner runners will be held from April to June at an Ottawa Running Room. People across Canada can also participate and receive instructional materials online at runtoquit.com.

This isn’t the first time that running has been used in a smoking cessation program. The Lung Association of Nova Scotia started a pilot project in 2009, training a group of smokers for a 5K. The idea behind their “Learn to Run for Smokers” program was that the smokers would decide for themselves to quit, once they experienced how fitness gains became easier without the daily cigarette.

John Stanton, Running Room’s founder, and an ex-smoker, believes smokers can trade one addiction for another — more healthier — habit. “As a smoker, I rewarded myself or consoled myself by smoking,” Stanton said. “Now as an athlete, I make my lifestyle choices based on performance, and live life to the fullest.”

Run to Quit offers a combination of running and walking tips from Stanton’s training method, along with support from the Canadian Cancer Society’s smokers’ helpline.