Program Description
We know that big changes happen when you have someone in your corner. Small Steps for Big Changes pairs you with an empathetic health coach who listens to understand your unique needs. We provide the structure and accountability necessary to help you lower your diabetes risk, empowering you to build sustainable, healthy habits that last a lifetime.
- 6 Weeks
- Free
- One-on-one
- Y Membership Required: No
Program Description
Prediabetes occurs when blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a Type 2 diabetes diagnosis. The positive news is that early lifestyle changes can significantly reduce risk.
Small Steps for Big Changes is an evidence based counselling program that helps people make long lasting changes to their eating habits, physical activity, and overall lifestyle to lower their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Participants learn how to build realistic habits that fit everyday life, feel supported in their journey, and gain confidence in their ability to create change.
If the risk test shows that you may be at higher risk for prediabetes or Type 2 diabetes, you can sign up for the program or join the mailing list.
Program benefits
- Personalized coaching:
- One on one sessions explore your goals, barriers, motivations, and strengths in a supportive way
- Six personalized coaching sessions to help you begin exercise and nutrition changes
- Sustainable habit building:
- Learn how to increase physical activity, make realistic dietary adjustments, and create routines that fit your lifestyle
- Long term support:
- Stay connected through structured follow up sessions at 1, 6, 12, and 24 months to help maintain progress
- Long term accountability check-ins
- Research backed results:
- A welcoming program grounded in behavioural science and real world success
- Studies show that participants continue exercising and improve independent diabetes risk factors months and years after completing the program.
- Accessible and community centered:
- Thanks to partnerships and aligned values, the program is offered at no cost at the Saskatoon YMCA
Program eligibility
- Adults at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes
- Individuals who complete the online risk screening
- No Y membership required
- Take the eligibility test here.
Program schedule
- Training Phase
- Six one on one coaching sessions over four weeks
- Support Phase
- Check-ins at 6, 12, and 24 months after completion
- Check-ins at 6, 12, and 24 months after completion
- Programs run year round at the Saskatoon YMCA
- Complete the online risk test to see if you are eligible
- Please call 306-652-7515 for more information or for referrals
Ready to join?
Please call the Saskatoon YMCA at 306-652-7515 or email us at smallstepsyxe@ymcasaskatoon.org for more information.
