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Take HEART – a program that offers an introductory level of physical activity as well as nutritional counselling to persons at risk of developing chronic medical conditions – will be available to more people in 2012 as the result of an investment by the provincial government. "We know that many New Brunswickers are at risk of developing chronic illness or are already dealing with these illnesses," said Wellness, Culture and Sport Minister Trevor Holder. "Through this program, registered dieticians and certified personal trainers take an individualized and targeted approach to helping participants who want to live healthier lives." The provincial government is investing $100,000 in the delivery and evaluation of the program. "Often, simple lifestyle changes such as eating a variety of healthy foods each day and building physical activity into your daily routine is all that is required to decrease dramatically people's chances of becoming chronically ill later in life," said Stacey Reading, assistant professor, Faculty of Kinesiology – University of New Brunswick, who oversees the program. Take HEART provides aerobic and strength conditioning to reduce the risk of developing chronic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and cancers related to physical inactivity. In January, Take HEART will be able to accommodate up to 60 participants in each of two locations in Fredericton – one in English, the other in French. Persons can register by going online, at takeheart@unb.ca. Alternatively, those wishing to participate in the English program may register in person by going to Recreation Services, University of New Brunswick, located at the Richard J. Currie Center on the Fredericton campus. Those wishing to participate in the French program may register in person at the Centre Communautaire Sainte-Anne in Fredericton. The program accepts adults older than 30 who are healthy enough to participate in moderate intensity exercises such as walking and supporting their body mass through a range of movements such as stretching. The 12-week program runs three nights per week and consists of three, one-hour group fitness sessions and one nutrition seminar. Participants also receive pre- and post-program health-related fitness appraisals. Progress is monitored throughout the program. One-on-one counselling and support are provided as required. Take HEART is a partnership involving the Department of Wellness, Culture and Sport; the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of New Brunswick; the Horizon Health Network; the Chalmers Regional Hospital Foundation; and the City of Fredericton. Media Contacts: Natalie Montgomery UNB Communcations & Marketing (506) 458-7215 natalie.montgomery@unb.ca Stacey Reading assistant professor Faculty of Kinesiology University of New Brunswick (506) 453-4893 sreading@unb.ca Jane Matthews-Clark Communications,Department of Wellness, Culture and Sport (506) 444-4454 jane.matthews-clark@gnb.ca.